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Biking the Beautiful Kickapoo Valley
Wisconsin has repeatedly been ranked as one of the top bicycling destinations in the nation, which comes as no surprise to those of us living here. Whether you choose to enjoy the 80 trails in the “rails-to-trails” system, such as the world famous Elroy-Sparta Trail, or hundreds of miles more on rolling, quiet country roads, Wisconsin boasts a biking friendly culture designed to keep visitors coming back to bike time and time again. Our quiet Bed and Breakfast is located just off the Kickapoo River, and is within easy reach of great biking destinations throughout the Driftless Area. Book your room at our quiet Homestead today, where you can enjoy our one hundred and sixty mostly wooded acres, with natural gardens, hiking trails, a large pond, and even a small vineyard; the perfect way to relax after an adventurous day of biking!
Biking the Driftless Area
Crawford County, home to varied terrain and unsurpassed scenery, has charted 9 road-routes for biking enthusiasts in the Driftless Area. At the heart of these routes, bikers will enjoy a rolling ride through the stunning Kickapoo River Valley. If you’re looking for more than great scenery on your bike ride, several of the loops throughout Crawford County include more challenging terrain. In neighboring Vernon County, there are an additional 5 routes starting in Westby, and include stunning rides through Amish Country, charming small towns, and the beautiful Kickapoo Valley. Bikers will also enjoy the 32-mile Elroy-Sparta State Trail, which passes through the northernmost point of the Kickapoo Valley, and has been inducted into the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame. If you aren’t enticed to bring your bike to the Driftless Area for an adventurous weekend yet, then perhaps the miles of parks, many of which within an hour’s driving distance to our Vacation Rental, will change your mind. Popular mountain biking areas include the Kickapoo Valley Reserve, Wildcat Mountain State Park, and Wyalusing State Park.
This summer also brings exciting rides and challenges for biking enthusiasts. Join residents and visitors alike in August for the annual Kickapoo BRAVE (Bluffs, Rivers, and Valley Event) Ride. This exciting ride begins in nearby Gays Mills. Riders can choose their own route, from beginner or intermediate to advanced, and in a length of 15 to 116 miles. No matter what you choose, you’ll enjoy the route as it winds through breathtaking scenery. If you’re feeling up to the challenge, we encourage you to take part in the annual Aloha Bike Tour leaving from Viroqua also in August. This wonderful community event serves as a fundraiser for student-athletes of the Viroqua Cross Country Team. This event also offers a choice of bike routes for all abilities, from a 12-mile family ride, to a 54-mile challenging ride. Whether you plan to participate in one or both events, or just want to check out the unique scenery of Driftless Wisconsin, our Vacation Rental is the perfect choice for lodging while you’re here.
Get in touch
15662 Vance Rd
Soldiers Grove, Wisconsin 54655
262-955-5529
homestead@mwt.net
Guest Comment
Our family stayed in mid-August. We had a very relaxing visit. The house is comfortable and the property is encircled by hills, making the experience a unique getaway. We enjoyed building bonfires each night, hanging out in the nice living room and taking the surprisingly lengthy hikes that are all on the property. Mornings started with coffee on the second story porch overlooking the meadow and hills, evenings ended with zero noise except that made by nature or our family. Each night there was a canopy of bright stars that weren't diluted by light pollution. We enjoyed hiking Wildcat Mountain, canoeing down the Kickapoo, roasting smores and hanging out. My son and I tried our luck at trout fishing in a nearby stream (Tainter?). It was an enjoyable, unique experience although we didn't catch anything. We'll be back.
- Dave, Eau Claire, WI