Best casual bike rides in Madison, WI
Madison is one of the best bike towns in the Midwest — an isthmus wrapped in lakes and threaded with paths like the Capital City and Lake Monona trails. These casual route ideas lean on that path network so you can just roll and take in the water.
Up for a big day? Madison century rides ›
Madison family / flat ride — 5.84 mi
A short loop on all pavement with light traffic, mostly on side streets. You'll pick up about 163 ft of climbing spread across the ride, nothing steep enough to slow you down. Good for a quick spin or warming up before a longer day.
Madison bike paths ride — 18.69 mi
Head south on paved roads for a mellow loop with about 474 ft of climbing spread across the ride. You'll hit some busier roads mid-route, but mostly it's a steady cruise that leaves you with energy to spare.
Madison longer scenic ride — 15.67 mi
Head west on quiet pavement for a loop that climbs about 527 ft spread across the ride, nothing steep but steady enough to keep you honest. Fifteen and a half miles, just under an hour, mostly on side streets away from traffic. Good midweek spin.
Madison gravel ride — 22.9 mi
You've got a quiet loop on mostly pavement with a couple miles of gravel mixed in, about 546 ft of climbing spread across the ride. It's a short enough spin that you'll be back in just over an hour and a half, plenty of time to grab a second coffee.