Sugar River State Trail

Sugar River State Trail rests in New Glarus, a town on Wisconsin’s southern border with Illinois. The well-maintained trail is composed of crushed rock, and it runs just under 23 miles past picturesque hills and valleys. It also crosses two rivers, the Little Sugar River and the Sugar River. Both rivers offer scenic vistas that exhibit the rustic beauty of the north-central U.S. The sheer amount of trail available coupled with the wonderful setting make Sugar River State Trail a fantastic location to explore with your dog!

The trail has endpoints in both New Glarus and Broadhead, and both locations are a good starting point for a promenade with your pooch. If you decide to start at the New Glarus endpoint, you will find an interesting structure — there is an old railroad depot that has been restored. The trail runs for about a half a mile from there, and then it begins to follow the Little Sugar River. It proceeds through the amazing Wisconsin landscape, and it passes a few waypoints you won’t want to miss. Fourteen miles from the New Glarus endpoint, there is a large, curved bridge that provides a wonderful view of the surrounding area.  Seven more miles in, at the 21-mile point, there is a replica of a covered bridge.

The Sugar River State Trail receives plenty of care from the local community, so you will find it is in a condition suitable for a walk with your waggy friend. There is a restroom and water stop located in Monticello, and another one nearby in Albany. Remember to always be considerate of other trail users; there are no bags provided at the trail, so you’ll have to bring your own to clean up after your dog. The trail guidelines also require dogs to be on leashes under eight feet in length.

Sugar River State Trail is a fantastic destination for dog owners in Wisconsin, whether you want to spend the whole day exploring the scenery and history or just stop by for a short stroll!