The TrailThe Military Ridge Trail is a 40 mile multi-use trail that runs from Fitchburg to Dodgeville and caters to over 200,000 users annually.
This beautiful trail traverses woods, wetlands, prairies, and farmland and small towns. It connects Fitchburg, Verona, Klevenville, Riley, Mount Horeb, Blue Mounds, Barneveld, Ridgeway, and Dodgeville. The east end of the trail connects to 100s of miles of trail that extend into Madison and throughout Wisconsin. 
Photo by Friends of MRT
The trail includes long stretches of lovely woods with tree canopy, interspersed with occasional vista openings, providing users relief from the hot summer sun. Near Riley, there is an observation platform adjacent to the trail for viewing wildlife and other natural features and many informational signs. Spectacular stretches of wetlands and prairies are studded with wild flowers and home to cranes, woodland and wetland birds, and much more.
The trail has 37.5 miles of crushed limestone and 2.5 miles of blacktop (between Fitchburg and Verona) making this stretch of trail usable for in-line skating. The 48 bridges, crossing streams, intermittent waterways, cattle paths, and small dry hollows add to the beauty of the trail. With a 2 to 5 percent grade this trail is ideal for users of many abilities such as hikers, bikers, runners, wheelchair users, in-line skaters, cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and snowmobilers. The trail is not groomed for cross-country skiing and skiers do not need a trail pass while using the trail. Snowmobiles are permitted on the limestone section of the trail only and share the trail with skiers, snowshoers, and hikers. The Military Ridge State Trail connects to numerous miles of county snowmobile trails. Pets are allowed on the trail but pet owners must have their pet on a leash 8 feet or shorter, at all times and pick up after pets. |
You can help keep the trail clean!
Next time you head out to the trail, consider bringing a grocery bag to pick up litter. Every little bit helps! 
This story was sent on the comments section of this website.
Hi. I’m not part of your group but I walk the trail with my family a lot. My 5yr old son had been noticing all of the trash along the trail and when I suggested we bring a garbage bag sometime he thought it was a great idea. The last 3 days we have collected 4 10-gallon garbage bags full between the Do-It-Best on the West side of Mount Horeb to Waltz park on the East side. My son said he would love to eventually clean both sides of the whole trail. Although we plan to go out further each time we’re out, he was surprised to learn how long the trail was. I’m not looking for recognition or to toot my own horn, but I just thought that during this time when everyone’s either home or out walking, it may be a good suggestion to the public to bring a garbage bag and some gloves the next time they’re out on the trail. Thank you. Have a nice day! |
