Red Cedar State Trail
The Red Cedar State Trail is a scenic 14.5 mile path that follows the Red Cedar River from Menomonie to its junction with the Chippewa River State Trail. For much of the route, the trail passes between the river and the shadows of forested bluffs. The trail’s crushed limestone surface and level grade make for easy riding, and the scenery is outstanding.
The trail travels along prairies, river bottoms, forests, and farmlands. Near its terminus, it passes through the Dunnville State Wildlife Area, and crosses the Chippewa River on an old railroad trestle bridge. For much of the route, sandstone cliffs tower over the trail while it passes through deciduous forests. It is not uncommon to see the forest floor filled with ferns and wildflowers. Wildlife is routinely seen from the trail too.
A product of the “Rails to Trails program,” the Red Cedar State Trail was built on the former Red Cedar Junction Railway line. Beginning in the 1880s, this railway line served the Knapp and Stout Company. The company was the world’s largest timber producer at the time. The Red Cedar line hauled lumber, freight, and stone from area quarries. Today, information kiosks along the trail convey the history of these quarries. The line was abandoned in 1973. The DNR purchased the route and converted it to a recreational trail. Since then, Red Cedar State Trail has offered a peaceful trail experience for bikers and hikers.
The Red Cedar State Trail is part of a larger trail network called the Chippewa Valley Trail System. After converging with the Chippewa River State Trail, trail-goers may continue southwest to the city of Durand or northeast to Eau Claire. At Phoenix Park in downtown Eau Claire, the Chippewa River State Trail becomes the Old Abe State Trail and continues north to Brunet Island State Park near Cornell. In all, the Chippewa Valley Trail System extends nearly 80 miles along three trails.
The Red Cedar State Trail begins in Menomonie at the old railroad depot. This historic building serves as trail headquarters and area visitor center. It has historical and nature exhibits. Facilities for bikers are at the trailhead. Bike racks, picnic tables, information kiosk, tire pump, and self-registration station are there. Riverside Park is adjacent to the trailhead, and offers restrooms, picnic shelters, river access, and an outdoor exercise area.
The trailhead and Riverside Park are on the west side of Menomonie off Wisconsin State Highway 29. Across the highway from the trailhead is another parking lot. From this location, the Stokke Trail heads north 3 miles through Menomonie to Lake Menomin.
Other trailheads on the Red Cedar State Trail are found in Irvington and Downsville. There is a parking lot with no other facilities near the end of the trail in the Dunnville State Wildlife Area. Rest stops with park benches or picnic tables are located along the entire route.
There is a $5 daily charge per person for usage of the Red Cedar State Trail. A $25 annual pass may also be purchased. Passes may be obtained at the trail headquarters in Menomonie or at self-registration stations along the trail. Obey all posted signs. Bicycling on the Red Cedar State Trail is an enjoyable and exhilarating experience. The trail’s many vistas engage the senses and reveal the splendor of the Red Cedar River valley.
Route Descriptions