One look at the Crawford County Bicycle Map will tell you as much, with topographical profiles that look like a plot of the Dow Jones Industrials; lots of ups and downs. But the faint of heart reap no reward without an investment. So, saddle up!
If variety remains the preferred choice on your spice rack, Crawford County has the diversity to suit your tastes. The Crawford County bicycle route system uses “roads as routes,” lesser traveled township and county roads that allow you to experience the diverse character of the county’s back roads and small communities.
The system consists of eight distinct loops connected by a central corridor that parallels the Kickapoo River from Soldiers Grove to Wauzeka. Extending from the Kickapoo Valley, each loop explores a different facet and view of the county. The west loops steer you toward the Mississippi River, with jaw-dropping overlooks of the river and county landscape. The east loops guide you along quiet pastures and secluded farms. Pick a new loop and you choose a different palette of colors and subjects to paint your own private landscape.
If you’re less ambitious like me, you can choose an elevation and stick to it. The Kickapoo Corridor offers a few rolling hills and challenging climbs, but generally stays in the valley on the northern portions West Point Road and River Road between Gays Mills and Soldiers Grove follow the Kickapoo closely, with the river tagging along as a riding companion.
Be sure to mark your calendar for the annual Kickapoo BRAVE Ride on Sept 18. The ride features a choice between four great routes through Crawford County, followed by a Harvest Dinner that evening. And don’t tell anyone I told you this, but you can also use the Bicycle Map as a guide for some wonderful road trips in the car! Driftless Wisconsin rewards all who sample her variety, and no one will go home hungry for more stunning scenery.
Tell us about your favorite bicycle rides in Driftless Wisconsin. If you want to keep the locations secret, just change the names to protect the innocent.
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