The “400” State Trail: Reedsburg to La Valle
The “400” State Trail begins at the historic railroad depot in the city of Reedsburg. It is located at 240 Railroad Street. From Wisconsin State Highways 23-33 in Reedsburg, turn south on South Walnut Street and continue 2 blocks to the depot and trail parking lot. Restrooms and the DNR office are located in the depot. An information kiosk, self-registration station, and bicycle self-service station are found at the trailhead.
The Reedsburg train depot was built in 1906 and used until 1963. It was part of the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad. It is a beautiful, historic building with original woodwork, floors, and iconic ticket window.
Reedsburg’s history dates to the late 1840s, when a community sprung up where “Babb’s Ford” crossed the Baraboo River. Reedsburg was platted in 1852, incorporated as a village in 1868, and became a city in 1887. The Chicago and Northwestern Railroad arrived in 1872, helping the community thrive. Today, Reedsburg businesses cater to visitors. The downtown has cafes and restaurants, and the Greenwood Café is a good place to grab a sandwich (116 S. Walnut Street). The Double Dip Ice Cream Shoppe (349 E. Main Street) is another popular stop for visiting cyclists. It feature Madison’s premium Chocolate Shoppe ice cream.
Heading northwest through Reedsburg, the “400” State Trail crosses the Baraboo River. Use caution crossing Wisconsin State Highways 23-33. The city gives way to the lowland valley of the Baraboo River. The trail crosses streams and marshes as it parallels the river. The echoing calls of frogs and birds fill the air in spring and summer. Cyclists should watch for turtles crossing the path, and beware of occasional patches of poison ivy on the trail’s edge.
Along the 7.8 mile route, interpretive signs detail Baraboo River valley’s natural and human history. A picnic area and park benches along the path beckon trail-goers to stop and relax. A tunnel under Wisconsin State Highway 33 signals the upcoming village of La Valle.
“The Valley,” as it is called in French, was incorporated in 1856. Members of the Ho Chunk tribe were the first to settle at the confluence of the Big and Little Baraboo Rivers. White Americans came in 1849, and were attracted to the river’s potential for waterpower. Several mills and industries emerged, and the railroad came in 1872.
Map of trailheads and addresses along this section of the trail.
The trailhead is located on Trail Street in La Valle. It is accessed from North Street off Wisconsin State Highway 58 in the center of the village. An informational kiosk at the trailhead conveys the history of La Valle and the railroad. Restrooms (with running water) and a self-registration station are located there. Gas and food may be purchased in La Valle.
Trail last ridden and documented in June, 2020.