Fond du Lac Area
Fond du Lac has a network of trails, enabling both bicycle commuters and visiting cyclists to explore the city. Perhaps the most visible path, the Prairie Trail is a 7-mile paved route that runs along U.S. Highway 151 between Winnebago Drive and Martin Road. The 5.6-mile Peebles Trail follows an old rail line from Fond du Lac to St. Peter, and intersects the Prairie Trail. Its eastern section is paved, and the western section is crushed limestone.
The 2-mile paved Brooke Street Trail follows a former railway line though much of Fond du Lac. It passes through neighborhoods and industries. The Camelot Trail is also 2 miles, and winds through forest and prairie in a business park. On the north side of the city, a series of paved trails crisscross Lakeside Park, including the 1-mile Harbor View Trail.
A collaborative effort of government and local civic groups led to the creation of the “Fond du Lac Loop.” This 16-mile bicycle route is comprised of various trails, connected by city street bike lanes to form a circular route around the city. When biking the “Loop,” cyclists benefit wearing bright clothes and using lights to enhance their visibility. Cycling the “Loop” provides an interesting variety of terrain and sights.
“Fond du Lac” is French for “bottom of the lake,” referring to the city’s location at the southern end of Lake Winnebago. Native American tribes lived there long before contact with white settlers. In the mid-1830s, a military road built through the area spawned growth of a town. After the railroad arrived in 1852, the city incorporated.
Today, Fond du Lac has many restaurants and hotels serving visiting cyclists. Schmitty’s Oar House Bar and Grill is popular with locals, and has casual American and Italian cuisine, including homemade pizza, calzones, burgers, and sandwiches.
Kelley’s Country Creamery has become a favorite attraction for people of all ages. Sustainable agriculture is practiced on the 150-year-old Kelley farm, and delicious ice cream is made in their own creamery. Visitors watch production through the store’s viewing windows, enjoy a treat, and sit inside at a few tables or outside on a wide front porch.
In the last few years, Ledgerock Distillery has become a popular attraction for adults. Located atop the Niagara Escarpment, the distillery produces spirits start-to-finish. The owners grow their own grain, and distill and bottle the spirits on site. Free tastings are offered at their store; Farmer Boy Bourbon is a best-seller.