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

February 2023 Monthly Meeting at Blue Mounds Shelter
We will hold our next monthly meeting on Monday, February 13, 2023, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Blue Mounds State Park Friendship Shelter. We will vote for new board members, if you are interested in being on the board, contact us!

State parks require a car state park pass but you can tell staff that you are there for the meeting. In the event of bad weather the meeting will be on Zoom. If this happens, please call 608-437-3249 for details.

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. 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!