Great River State Trail - a bridge over a river
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Great River State Trail

4.6
·491k reviews·La Crosse, United States

A 101-mile crushed limestone trail offering scenic beauty and a smooth surface for biking, running, and walking.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Great River State Trail - a bridge over a river

Great River State Trail

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 101-mile crushed limestone trail offering scenic beauty and a smooth surface for biking, running, and walking.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Perfect for a peaceful ride or run on a softer surface with lovely views."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Trail-Ready Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes or cycling gear for the crushed limestone path.

📍 Start at Great River Landing

Enjoy art, views, and restrooms at this scenic starting point.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Great River Landing

Great River Landing

Onalaska

Peaceful starting point with swing benches, art, and scenic river views.

TikTok
Crushed Limestone Path

Crushed Limestone Path

Entire Trail

A smooth, soft surface ideal for cycling, running, and walking.

Reddit
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Trail Surface & Footwear

The Great River State Trail is primarily a crushed limestone path, perfect for biking and running. Opt for sturdy shoes or cycling gear for comfort and stability on this soft surface. Reddit

Starting Points & Amenities

Begin your adventure at Great River Landing in Onalaska for stunning views and amenities like restrooms. This is a great access point for exploring the trail. TikTok

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warm weather for activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚲 The Great River Landing is the starting point for Wisconsin's Great River State Trail, a 101-mile biking route. But you don't need to be a cyclist to enjoy it - it's a peaceful spot to sit on the swing benches and take in the scenery. Situated in downtown Onalaska, this place offers intriguing art, splendid views, and public restrooms. We're more into hiking, and didn't have our bikes with us, ...
snorkelsandsnowpants
0 likes • 3.6K views

👟 Trail-Ready Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes or cycling gear for the crushed limestone path. TikTokReddit

📍 Start at Great River Landing

Enjoy art, views, and restrooms at this scenic starting point. TikTok

Great River State Trail for some soft surface threshold work. #wisconsin @uwlathletics @d3glorydays @citiusmag @thestridereport
uwlcc
269 likes • 11.7K views
reddit.com

Seeking info about the Great River State Trail

🚴‍♀️ Perfect for Biking

The 101-mile route is ideal for a long bike ride. TikTok

🏃‍♂️ Great for Runners

Softer surface than concrete, easier on the joints. Reddit

reddit.com

What’s your favorite WI bike trail ?

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Trail-Ready Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes or cycling gear for the crushed limestone path. TikTokReddit

📍 Start at Great River Landing

Enjoy art, views, and restrooms at this scenic starting point. TikTok

🚴‍♀️ Perfect for Biking

The 101-mile route is ideal for a long bike ride. TikTok

🏃‍♂️ Great for Runners

Softer surface than concrete, easier on the joints. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Great River State Trail for its smooth, joint-friendly crushed limestone surface, making it ideal for biking and running. The scenic views and peaceful atmosphere are also highlights, with Great River Landing being a particularly pleasant access point. Some users note the trail's length offers great potential for long-distance activities.

What People Like

Smooth crushed limestone surface
Great for biking and running
Scenic river views

What People Dislike

Can be dusty in dry weather

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Great River Landing in Onalaska is a popular and well-equipped starting point, offering art, restrooms, and scenic views. TikTok Other access points are available along the trail's 101-mile length.

The trail is accessible via various points, with Great River Landing in Onalaska being a key access point. Driving directions will depend on your chosen starting location. TikTok

Yes, parking is generally available at designated trailheads like Great River Landing. It's advisable to arrive early during peak seasons. TikTok

Yes, the Great River State Trail is connected to the La Crosse River State Trail, offering a continuous route. You can access it from various points around La Crosse. Reddit

The trail passes through or near towns like Onalaska and other communities along the Mississippi River in Wisconsin. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Great River State Trail is a public recreational trail and does not require an entrance ticket or fee for general use. TikTok

Generally, there are no fees to access and use the trail itself. However, any specific park facilities or events might have associated costs. TikTok

The trail is typically open year-round from dawn to dusk. Specific amenities like restrooms at trailheads may have limited hours. TikTok

The Great River State Trail is a public access trail, so reservations are not necessary or possible for general use. TikTok

The crushed limestone surface is generally accessible for wheelchairs and other mobility devices, though conditions can vary. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The trail is primarily made of crushed limestone, which provides a softer surface compared to asphalt or concrete, making it ideal for biking and running. TikTokReddit

You'll experience peaceful river views, especially near the Great River Landing, and pass through scenic Wisconsin landscapes. TikTok

Restrooms are available at key access points like the Great River Landing in Onalaska. TikTok It's advisable to check for facilities at other trailheads if you plan a long journey.

Yes, the smooth surface and scenic beauty make it a great option for family outings, biking, or leisurely walks. TikTok

The trail is perfect for biking, running, walking, and enjoying nature. TikTokReddit Its 101-mile length offers opportunities for both short strolls and long-distance adventures.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Great River State Trail is an excellent choice for families. The crushed limestone surface is generally safe and easy for children to navigate on bikes or scooters. TikTokReddit The Great River Landing offers a nice starting point with some visual interest and amenities like restrooms, making it convenient for families. TikTok Pack snacks and water, and enjoy a leisurely ride or walk through the scenic Wisconsin landscape.

🏃‍♀️ Runners & Fitness Enthusiasts

Runners will appreciate the Great River State Trail for its softer crushed limestone surface, which is much kinder to the joints than concrete or asphalt. TikTokReddit The 101-mile length provides ample opportunity for long-distance training runs. Many athletes find it an ideal spot for 'soft surface threshold work' as noted by some users. TikTok Plan your route and enjoy a comfortable and scenic workout.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Great River State Trail by Bike

The Great River State Trail is a fantastic destination for cyclists, stretching an impressive 101 miles across Wisconsin. Its crushed limestone surface offers a comfortable ride, making it a popular choice for both casual riders and serious cyclists. Many users highlight the trail's suitability for training, noting it's easier on the body than concrete paths. TikTokReddit

Starting points like the Great River Landing in Onalaska provide convenient access and amenities, including restrooms and scenic views. TikTok Whether you're looking for a short afternoon ride or a multi-day cycling tour, the trail's length and relatively flat terrain make it an accessible option for a wide range of fitness levels. Remember to bring appropriate gear for a comfortable journey.

Running and Walking on the Trail

For runners and walkers, the Great River State Trail offers a welcome alternative to harder surfaces. The crushed limestone path is frequently recommended for its joint-friendly nature, especially for those training for longer distances. TikTokReddit This softer terrain can significantly reduce impact, making it a preferred choice for many athletes.

Beyond the physical benefits, the trail provides a peaceful environment for a stroll or a run. The scenic beauty and the opportunity to connect with nature add to the overall experience. TikTok Access points like Great River Landing offer pleasant spots to begin or end your walk, with opportunities to enjoy the views and perhaps some local art. TikTok

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