Friends of Military Ridge Trail

Our Mission

The mission of the Friends of Military Ridge Trail is to promote and enhance Military Ridge State Trail use for the enjoyment of hikers, bikers, runners, snowmobilers, and skiers. We are committed to the preservation of the natural and historic aspects of the 40 mile trail that runs from Dodgeville to Fitchburg, Wisconsin.

News

Help us prevent bike ruts this spring!
Just like you, we can't wait to get on the trail, but all trail users should wait to enjoy the trail until after the spring thaw, and the trail has hardened to prevent deep foot prints and bike ruts. If you are leaving a mark, the trail is still too soft.

April 2023 Monthly Meeting at Ridgeway Train Depot
We will hold our next monthly meeting on Monday, April 10, 2023, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Ridgeway Train Depot. If you are interested in helping with our spring cleaning, arrive around 3pm.

Volunteer Opportunity: Horrible Hilly Hundreds
Saturday June 17, 2023 - Help at the Black Earth Friends of Military Ridge Trail Rest Stop. Multiple time slots available. Sign up here.

In the News: Bill Kalscheur wins Hero Award (November 2022)
Friends of Wisconsin State Parks Vice-President Randy Paske presented our long-time Treasurer and member, Bill Kalscheur with the Hero Award for outstanding contributions as a Friends group member. Congratulations Bill!

In the News: The Trail to Riley Tavern
https://www.channel3000.com/the-trail-to-riley-tavern/

Trail Work and Closures
A sewer project, Pumping Station 17 Force Main Relief, Phase 2, is planned near Verona that will protect the environment and serve the community for years to come. This will impact the paved section of the trail between miles 1 and 3 late 2023 through summer 2024. Find out more on the Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District Website

See our Events page for other things happening on the trail.

Photo by Mary Kay Baum

Most people who use the trail are considerate of others but occasionally, there are problems. If you have a complaint about users on the trail who are not following the rules, you may call the DNR tip line: 1-800-847-9363.

Snowmobile Trail Conditions

Our Achievements

The Friends, in cooperation with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources have:

donated trail kiosks and installed trail signage;
assisted the WDNR in maintaining and improving the trail;
helped fund comfort stations and overlook platforms;
purchased and restored the Ridgeway railroad depot and developed it as a museum;
restored a donated rail caboose that can be opened for tours when the depot is open or by special appointment;
sponsored and supported volunteer interpretive services and environmental education activities, seminars, lectures;
developed interpretive, scientific, historical, and educational services; and
provided financial support for the trail.

Our Objectives

Friends continue to:

distribute and sell trail passes;
assist with local walking and bicycling events;
clear brush and control invasive plants;
maintain current kiosks and develop new kiosks and signage;
coordinate and offer opportunities to learn about the flora, fauna, geology, and history of the trail; and
promote other trail related social and fund raising activities.

Interested in learning more? Become a Friend or join us at one of our Monthly Meetings!