The Mountain Bay State Trail runs 83 miles across three Wisconsin counties, connecting Weston, just east of Wausau, with Howard Memorial Park near Green Bay. The route follows a former Chicago and Northwestern Railroad right-of-way, which gives it a gradual grade that makes rail trails so appealing for long rides. Among Wisconsin bike trails, the Mountain Bay State Trail is especially appealing for its distance, easy grade, and changing scenery as it passes through farmland, wooded areas, and small communities on its way east.
There are so many things to do in Wausau during your stay. We send a lot of our guests to the trail’s western terminus in Weston, a short drive from downtown Wausau, especially if they’re already planning to visit Rib Mountain State Park that same day. Climb the 60-foot observation tower at Rib Mountain in the morning, then spend the afternoon riding the flatter terrain of the Mountain Bay Trail. Guests who’d rather stay near the water can head to the Wausau Whitewater Park instead. You can take in views from Rib Mountain, watch the rapids downtown, and explore one of the longest Wisconsin rail trails, all within the greater Wausau area.
Whichever direction our guests point their bikes, most of them end up back in downtown Wausau by evening, and that’s exactly where we’re located. Among Wausau hotels, we’re close to downtown restaurants, shops, and businesses, and we’re always happy to point you toward the western trailhead or help you understand the Wisconsin state trail pass before you head out. Book your stay, ride the trail, and come back to a relaxing front porch and breakfast in the morning.
Mountain Bay State Trail: One of the Best Bike Trails in Wisconsin
The Mountain Bay State Trail is one of the longest rail trails in Wisconsin, and 83 miles gives cyclists plenty of room to make the ride as short or ambitious as they want. The trail runs between Weston, just east of Wausau, and Howard Memorial Park near Green Bay, following the former Chicago and Northwestern Railroad corridor through Marathon, Shawano, and Brown Counties. The name references Rib Mountain and Green Bay, two defining landmarks near opposite ends of the route. If you’re researching rails to trails in Wisconsin or looking through lists of the best bike trails in Wisconsin, the Mountain Bay Trail deserves consideration simply because of the distance, accessible grade, and variety of communities along the route.
The surface is gravel-clay rail trail rather than pavement, so anyone specifically searching for paved bike trails in Wisconsin should plan accordingly. A gravel bike, hybrid bike, mountain bike, or another bicycle with wider tires will generally feel more comfortable on this type of surface. There is also a short gap in the Mountain Bay State Trail in the city of Shawano near the Wolf River, where riders use local roads to reconnect with the trail. Parking is available at designated access points, and restrooms or other support facilities can be found in communities along the route, although amenities vary by county. Before riding farther than a short out-and-back trip, check the official Mountain Bay Trail map resources.
The Mountain Bay Trail requires a Wisconsin state trail pass for bicyclists age 16 and older. Walking and hiking do not require a pass. There is a small fee for both annual and day passes, which can be purchased online through the Wisconsin DNR, at participating DNR locations and vendors, and at self-registration stations at several Marathon County trailheads. On the Wausau side, the official western terminus is next to the Weston Municipal Center, and additional Marathon County access points include Ringle, the Marathon County Landfill, and Norrie. That gives you several options if you want to explore only one section rather than committing to a full day on the trail.
Among Wisconsin rail trails, the Mountain Bay State Trail holds its own because you can approach it in so many different ways. Strong cyclists can make a serious day of it, while casual riders can choose a trailhead, ride a comfortable distance, and turn around whenever they’re ready. Its long distance and gentle railroad grade also make it an appealing choice for anyone interested in biking trails in Wisconsin that go beyond a short recreational loop. For guests comparing Wausau hotels, staying downtown keeps you close to restaurants and other attractions while putting the western end of this classic bike trail in Wisconsin within a short drive.
Wausau Hotels: Why the Stewart Inn Is the Best Stop After the Trail
After a day of covering miles on the Mountain Bay State Trail, you’ll want to return to a restored 1906 mansion where you can sit back and relax. Our boutique hotel was designed by architect George W. Maher and is individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Our location is just blocks from downtown Wausau, while the western end of the Mountain Bay Trail in Weston is just a 12-minute drive away. Every guest room has an ensuite bath, a cozy fireplace, luxury linens, and a comfortable king bed.
Mornings start with a gourmet, multi-course breakfast prepared from scratch, with much of the food sourced from Wisconsin purveyors. Come back in the evening, and you’ll find a nightly reception, plus a deluxe pillow menu when you’re ready to settle in after a long ride. Book your stay with us, ride the Mountain Bay State Trail, and leave the rest of the evening for good food, a glass of wine, and a well-earned night of sleep.
