Elroy-Sparta State Trail

_{Considered the first rail-to-trail in the United States, the Elroy-Sparta State Trail remains one of the most popular trails in the country. With three rock tunnels and five small towns along its 32.5-mile route, the trail is a favorite Wisconsin bicycling destination. Traveling between Sparta and Elroy, the trail stretches through the communities of Norwalk, Wilton and Kendall, passing by wetlands, prairies, farmland and unglaciated areas. Sparta hosts the northern end of this trail and the eastern end of the La Crosse State Bike Trail. Nearby routes link the corridor to more than one hundred miles of riding across the Driftless Region. Many cyclists travel across the Midwest just to ride this trail at least once in their lifetime.}

_{Three railroad tunnels which are each over 140 years old highlight the Elroy-Sparta State Trail. The tunnels near Kendall and Wilton are each about 0.25 miles long. The tunnel between Norwalk and Sparta is 0.75 miles long. Flashlights and jackets are recommended in the tunnels. The tunnels are dark and cool, even on the brightest days and water from springs above can trickle onto the trail. Bikers should walk bikes through the tunnels. The tunnels are closed annually from Nov. 1 to April 30.} 

_{The trail is open to walking, bicycling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, however, the trail is not groomed and users must share the trail with snowmobiles. Snowmobiles are permitted on the trail. Operators must follow all Wisconsin snowmobile laws. Skiers do not need a trail pass while using the trail. The opening and closing of snowmobile trails are at the discretion of each county. Snowmobile trails that cross DNR lands are opened and closed consistent with the surrounding county (or counties). Whenever possible, the opening and closing of snowmobile trails are done on a county-wide basis, however, localized conditions may require localized trail opening and closing. It is the responsibility of the county to provide notification about the status of snowmobile trails.}