Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN MILWAUKEE
Planning a biking vacation in Milwaukee? Great choice. This Midwest gem is flat-out fun to explore by bike. From breezy lakefront paths to forested parkways and river trails, Milwaukee offers a mix of urban charm and natural beauty. Whether you’re a casual cruiser or a gear-head roadie, this city has something special for your pedals. Here’s your go-to guide for Milwaukee’s best bike touring routes.
Lakefront rides and waterfront views
Milwaukee’s shoreline along Lake Michigan is cycling gold. Start your ride on the Oak Leaf Trail – Lakefront Segment. It hugs the coast and weaves through Veterans Park, McKinley Marina, and down to South Shore Park. Expect breezy vibes, skyline views, and plenty of green space for a mid-ride picnic or coffee break.
The Oak Leaf Trail is Milwaukee’s signature cycling network, clocking in at over 125 miles total, but the lakefront section is a standout. It’s smooth, paved, and perfect for any type of rider—from families with kids to seasoned bikepackers mapping a weekend tour.
Top spots along the lakefront
Veterans Park: A great starting point with rentals, restrooms, and lake views.
McKinley Marina: Watch sailboats drift while cruising past the harbor.
Discovery World: Family-friendly science stop with water features and bike parking.
South Shore Park: Popular picnic spot with a beach and a beer garden nearby.
Lakeshore State Park: An island park connected by bridges, with epic sunrise views.
This route is flat, safe, and super scenic. You’ll ride past the Milwaukee Art Museum’s famous wings and maybe catch a food truck rally along the way. Don’t forget your camera—or your appetite.
Urban trails and riverside riding
Milwaukee’s urban core is more bikeable than ever, thanks to well-maintained trails and bike lanes linking neighborhoods, breweries, and riverwalks. One of the best city rides? The Hank Aaron State Trail. It stretches about 15 miles from the lakefront through downtown, past the Harley-Davidson Museum, and out to the Milwaukee County Zoo. It's a ride that mixes gritty urban scenes with green escapes.
Connect to the Milwaukee River Trail for a quieter vibe. You’ll roll alongside the riverbanks, over wooden bridges, and through tree-covered paths right in the middle of the city. It's ideal for morning rides and sunset cruises.
Best urban trail highlights
Hank Aaron State Trail: Ride past stadiums, museums, and into the suburbs.
Harley-Davidson Museum: Quick detour for a cool, bike-themed stop.
Third Ward: Cobblestone streets, indie shops, and bike-friendly cafés.
Milwaukee RiverWalk: Smooth surface and riverfront patios—ride and refuel.
Downtown Milwaukee: Clean bike lanes, light traffic, and plenty of photo ops.
This mix of paved trails and protected lanes lets you bike through the city without the stress. There’s always somewhere to stop, snack, or snap a photo. Plus, bike parking is easy to find, and local drivers are surprisingly chill.
Forest rides and suburban escapes
Looking to escape the city buzz? Milwaukee’s outer edges are home to some of the state’s prettiest cycling routes. Head west to the New Berlin Recreation Trail, a rail-trail gem that runs nearly 7 miles and connects to the wider Glacial Drumlin State Trail. You’ll cruise through leafy suburbs, farmland, and shaded groves—ideal for a full-day tour with minimal car traffic.
Another favorite: the Root River Parkway. This quiet, curving trail runs through Milwaukee’s park system and links up with the Oak Leaf Trail, offering a peaceful, tree-lined ride perfect for a slow roll or family outing.
Chill suburban routes worth exploring
New Berlin Trail: A paved escape with farmland views and a country feel.
Glacial Drumlin Trail: Go long with 52 miles of mixed terrain and charming towns.
Root River Parkway: Greenbelt cycling at its best—no crowds, just peace.
Grant Park: Southside spot with forested trails and bluff-top lake views.
Whitnall Park: Combine cycling with gardens, wildlife, and picnic zones.
These routes are perfect for riders who want a breather from downtown without straying too far. You'll find trailheads with parking, bathrooms, and water fountains—so it's easy to plan a half-day or full-day adventure.
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