Friends of Military Ridge Trail

News and Events

October Monthly Meeting at Ridgeway Depot
Join us for our monthly meeting on Monday October 9th at 5:30pm on the Riley Tavern porch in Riley (right off the trail). We hope to see you there!

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 sections of the trail between mile markers 1 and 4 late 2023 through summer 2024. The trail will remain open during construction. Find out more on the Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District Website

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

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, you may call the DNR tip line: 1-800-847-9363.

Photo by Mary Kay Baum

Snowmobile Trail Conditions

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.

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.

Photo by Friends of MRT

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!