Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Tunnel City State Trail is a multi-use recreational trail in south-central Wisconsin, following a former rail corridor from the community of Tunnel City to Sparta. Spanning approximately 19 miles, this trail provides an opportunity to explore the area's distinctive sandstone geology as it passes through historic railroad tunnels and gentle hills. The trail is well-maintained and open year-round for activities including biking, hiking, horseback riding, and in winter, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. The trail’s name derives from the tunnel near the community of Tunnel City, where the railroad engineers carved a passage through a sandstone bluff, which remains a highlight for visitors. The corridor passes through scenic rural landscapes interspersed with forest patches and agricultural land, providing occasional wildlife viewing opportunities such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various songbirds. The trail also serves as a local recreational resource connecting small towns like La Crosse and Sparta, inviting both day users and extended outdoor enthusiasts. The gentle grades inherited from the railroad context make it ideal for all skill levels, enhancing its appeal for families and casual riders. Access points and parking facilities are available at multiple trailheads, making it easily accessible. The Tunnel City State Trail exemplifies adaptive reuse of historic infrastructure, preserving a segment of railway heritage while promoting outdoor recreation and travel through Wisconsin’s natural and cultural settings.
