
New Glarus Covered Bridge
A scenic, flat rail-trail featuring charming wooden bridges and leading to the quaint Swiss-inspired town of New Glarus.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere

New Glarus Covered Bridge
Best Time
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic, flat rail-trail featuring charming wooden bridges and leading to the quaint Swiss-inspired town of New Glarus.
"Beautiful scenery and very flat trail. So many cool wooden bridges and the Sugar River winding throughout."

Bike or Hike the Trail
Enjoy the flat, shaded Sugar River State Trail. Consider local roads if trail conditions are muddy. :athletic_shoe:
Fuel Up at Sugar River Pizza
Grab a delicious bite at this spot conveniently located right on the trail. π

Quick Facts
Rating
4.7 Β· 32 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sugar River State Trail
A beautiful, flat trail with ample shade, winding through natural landscapes and past charming wooden bridges.

Wooden Bridges
Discover numerous picturesque wooden bridges that add to the trail's rustic charm and scenic beauty.

Quaint New Glarus
Explore this charming small town with unique shops, offering a perfect start or end point for your trail adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Etiquette & Conditions
Accessing New Glarus
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Madison to New Glarus Bikepacking Trip
You could keep going to Brodhead. Make it a 130 trip.
Bike or Hike the Trail
Enjoy the flat, shaded Sugar River State Trail. Consider local roads if trail conditions are muddy. :athletic_shoe:
Fuel Up at Sugar River Pizza
Grab a delicious bite at this spot conveniently located right on the trail. π
Explore New Glarus Charm
Discover quaint shops and a unique atmosphere in this delightful small town. :shopping_bags:
Check Restroom Hours
Restrooms are available at trailheads but may close by 4 PM. Plan accordingly. π½
Tips
from all over the internet
Bike or Hike the Trail
Enjoy the flat, shaded Sugar River State Trail. Consider local roads if trail conditions are muddy. :athletic_shoe:
Fuel Up at Sugar River Pizza
Grab a delicious bite at this spot conveniently located right on the trail. π
Explore New Glarus Charm
Discover quaint shops and a unique atmosphere in this delightful small town. :shopping_bags:
Check Restroom Hours
Restrooms are available at trailheads but may close by 4 PM. Plan accordingly. π½
Friendly Trail Encounters
Expect a warm welcome from locals and fellow visitors; greetings are common. π
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the beautiful, flat, and well-kept Sugar River State Trail, highlighting the friendly atmosphere and scenic wooden bridges. The charming town of New Glarus is a popular addition to the trail experience. Some users note that trail sections can get muddy, and prefer biking on local roads.
"Beautiful trail used by visitors and locals alike. Everyone was so friendly, greeting each other as we passed by. There is plenty of shading and it is well kept. Trailheads have bathrooms."
Steven
"Great bike ride! Some canopy. Sugar River Pizza is right on the path, delicious food. Icecream shop also on trail end/beginning."
Dawn Casper
"Beautiful scenery and very flat trail. So many cool wooden bridges and the Sugar River winding throughout."
Madcity Stevo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
π πΊοΈ Getting There
The New Glarus Covered Bridge is accessible via the Sugar River State Trail. You can access the trail from various trailheads, with free parking available. Some visitors opt to bike on local roads to reach New Glarus for a different experience.
Yes, the Sugar River State Trail is generally suitable for biking, offering a flat and shaded path. However, some users have noted that certain sections can become muddy after rain, and some prefer biking on local roads for a more satisfying ride.
Yes, it's possible to bike from Madison to New Glarus, often utilizing the Glacial Drumlin Trail and then connecting to the Sugar River State Trail. Some travelers suggest extending the trip further to Brodhead for a longer ride. Be aware of potential dirt bike and ATV traffic on trails south of Madison.
Free parking is available at various trailheads along the Sugar River State Trail. Plan your route to a convenient access point.
Restrooms are available at trailheads. However, it's important to note that they may be open only until 4 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
π« π« Tickets & Entry
Access to the New Glarus Covered Bridge and the Sugar River State Trail is generally free. There are no specific tickets required for entry.
The Sugar River State Trail is an outdoor public trail and is typically accessible from dawn to dusk. However, facilities like restrooms may have specific operating hours, often closing around 4 PM.
No, there is no admission fee to visit or photograph the New Glarus Covered Bridge. It is a public landmark along the trail.
Yes, hiking and walking dogs are permitted on the Sugar River State Trail. Ensure your dog is leashed and you clean up after them.
The Sugar River State Trail is a public recreational trail and does not typically have usage fees for walking or biking.
π« ποΈ Onsite Experience
The Sugar River State Trail is known for its flat and well-maintained terrain, making it ideal for biking and walking. Some sections can become muddy after rain, and the path is primarily a dirt path.
You can expect beautiful natural landscapes, ample shade from trees, and numerous picturesque wooden bridges, including the iconic New Glarus Covered Bridge. The Sugar River winds throughout the trail.
Crowd levels can vary. Weekends and holidays tend to be busier with both visitors and locals. Weekday mornings generally offer a more peaceful experience.
New Glarus is a quaint small town known for its charming shops and unique atmosphere. It serves as a great starting or ending point for your trail adventure.
Key points of interest include the various wooden bridges, the scenic Sugar River, and the charming town of New Glarus itself. Sugar River Pizza is also a popular stop directly on the path.
π½οΈ π½οΈ Food & Dining
Yes, Sugar River Pizza is conveniently located right on the Sugar River State Trail, offering delicious food. There's also an ice cream shop at one of the trail's ends or beginnings.
New Glarus offers a variety of dining options in its quaint town center, complementing the trail experience.
While there aren't designated picnic areas explicitly mentioned, the trail's scenic nature makes it a pleasant spot for a packed lunch. Remember to pack out all trash.
πΈ πΈ Photography
The New Glarus Covered Bridge itself is a prime photo opportunity. The numerous wooden bridges along the Sugar River State Trail also offer beautiful scenic shots, especially with the river and surrounding nature.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer crowds. The dappled sunlight through the trees can also create beautiful effects.
There are no specific restrictions mentioned for photography at the New Glarus Covered Bridge or on the public trail. However, always be respectful of other visitors.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit