Military Ridge State Trail: Blue Mounds to Riley
The Military Ridge State Trail offers bicyclists a pleasant and appealing ride as it descends Blue Mounds, passes through Mount Horeb, and journeys through the Upper Sugar River Watershed. Most of the route travels downhill, making for a relaxing ride. There are plenty of places to visit in Mount Horeb. Most are a short distance off the trail.
In Blue Mounds, the Military Ridge State Trail is best accessed at the village park. By car, exit U.S. Highways 18-151 north on County Highway F. Turn left (west) on County Highway ID, travel a half mile, and turn right (north) on Mounds Road. The park is on the right (east) side of the road after driving 0.3 mile. It has a parking lot, restrooms, information kiosk, self-registration station, playground, and picnic area.
With their distinctive shape and size, the Blue Mounds served as a geographic landmark for Native Americans and white settlers. During the Black Hawk War in 1832, Ebenezer Brigham and 25 others constructed a fort at Blue Mounds to protect themselves from factions of warring Native Americans. A historical marker on County Highway F describes this event, and can be easily accessed from the trail. A military road, built in 1835 by American troops from Fort Crawford in Prairie du Chien, was constructed along the south side of the Blue Mounds and the bicycle trail follows much of its original path.
Blue Mounds has gas stations and convenience stores. It also has taverns and restaurants. The park is located on the north side of the village. Upon leaving the village of Blue Mounds, the trail slowly descends in elevation. A paved spur trail, called the Brigham Trail, leads to the left (north) up the eastern mound to Brigham County Park. The park has a campground, two shelter facilities, picnic area, playground, hiking trails, and interpretive markers.
Cave of the Mounds National Natural Landmark is a unique nearby attraction. It can be accessed from the same spur trail that leads to Brigham County Park. Where the spur trail crosses Cave of the Mounds Road, ascend the road for 350 yards to the attraction’s parking lot. The site features a natural limestone cave located in the east mound’s southern slope. The cave contains numerous amazing geologic formations.
The Military Ridge State Trail continues its slow decent eastward after meeting the Brigham Trail junction. In another mile, it climbs upward, paralleling U.S. Highways 18-151. In summer, light blue flowers of the chicory plant speckle the land, and tall sumac plants occasionally create a barrier between the expressway and trail.
After crossing Wisconsin State Highway 78, the trail enters Mount Horeb. Two locations in the village serve as trailheads. The first trailhead is at the old train depot at 116 S. Second Street. By car, exit U.S. Highways 18-151 south on Wisconsin State Highway 78 and take it right (east) into Mount Horeb. Turn right (south) on Second Street and continue two blocks to the depot. Parking, information kiosks, a self-registration station, covered picnic shelter, and flush toilets are available there.
The second trailhead is at Waltz Park on Brian Street. Take exit 69 onto County Highway ID from U.S. Highways 18-151. Travel one mile to the fourth roundabout. Take the first right onto Perimeter Road, then turn left (north) onto Brian Street. Waltz Park has street parking, but offers flush toilets, a picnic shelter, playground, and ball fields.
Norwegian immigrants came to this area in the 1870s. When the railroad arrived, many businesses relocated to be closer to the rail line. The Norwegian heritage of Mount Horeb adds to its character. Look for troll statues throughout the village. Located near the trail on S. 2nd Street is the Driftless Emporium. This museum is managed by the Mount Horeb Area Historical Society. Their interpretive center conveys the story of Southwestern Dane County from pre-history to modern day. Consult their website for days and times of operation.
Mount Horeb has plenty of places to dine, indulge in a drink, or enjoy a tasty treat. The Grumpy Troll is a popular brew pub. It serves its own ales and lagers, and delicious pub food, including fried cheese curds. Brix Cider is another great place to stop along the trail. It offers an assortment of ciders made from locally grown apples, and various flavorful dishes to eat. The Sugar Troll Candy Store sells a variety of sweet treats, including flavorful gelato. Trail This Bicycle Shop is located nearby, and offers bicycle sales and service.
The trail leaves Military Ridge in Mount Horeb, and gradually drops nearly 300 feet into the lowlands of the Upper Sugar River Watershed. Traveling downhill though the shade of maple forests is delightful. But keeping eyes on the trail is suggested, especially after periods of heavy rain. Ruts, loose sand, and washouts may pose problems if not seen beforehand.
After crossing County Highway P near Klevenville, the forest opens up into a vast marshland. Immediately after crossing the Sugar River, the trail features an observation deck. This deck offers great views of the Sugar River valley, and the interpretive signs provide an education on the area’s natural and historical background.
Map of trailheads and addresses along this section of the trail.
The town of Riley is a half mile beyond the observation deck. To reach the Military Ridge State Trail by car, exit north from U.S. Highways 18-151 onto County Highway PD. Travel north 5.5 miles and turn left (north) onto County Highway J. It is 2.5 miles to Riley. Parking, information kiosks, a self-registration station, and portable toilet are found at the trailhead.
The small town of Riley was founded in 1881 when tracks for the Chicago and Northwestern Railway were laid through the area. Originally named Sugar River Station, the small hamlet is home to Riley Tavern. Built before 1909, the building first served as the town’s post office and general store. Today, it is a popular hangout for local residents and bicyclists, and worth a stop for good food and cold drinks.
Trail last ridden and documented in July, 2020.