Aldo Leopold Legacy Trail System
Pecatonica State Trail

Running 10 miles through the picturesque Bonner Branch Valley, this county-operated trail links Belmont with Calamine and the 47-mile Cheese Country Trail. The Pecatonica State Trail follows the old Milwaukee Road railroad corridor that at one time hauled lead through this valley, reminiscent of the mining era which once dominated this region of Wisconsin. The western terminus of the trail ends in Belmont, but eventually may continue to the city of Platteville. On the east end, the trail connects to the Cheese Country Trail in Calamine.

Activities

Snowmobiling on the Pecatonica State Trail.
DNR Photo

The Pecatonica State Trail may bring a number of different users to the trail at the same time. It is important to use good trail etiquette to ensure the enjoyment and safety of all trail users.

Wisconsin Trail Etiquette and Safety Guidelines [PDF 2MB]

All-Terrain Vehicles

ATVs are allowed year-round on the Pecatonica State Trail when there is less than one inch of snow coverage on the trail. Operators must follow all Wisconsin ATV operation laws. The trail also provides connections to the Cheese Country Trail and the Lafayette County ATV trail system.

In March 2010 the State authorized a Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) Pilot Program for operation of UTVs on designated ATV trails and road routes. Until June 30, 2012, UTVs may use the Pecatonica State Trail that is authorized by the Master Plan for use by ATVs and as posted by the County. A trail segment may not be posted open for UTV use unless the county has passed a resolution for the county to participate in the pilot program. UTV Pilot Program.

Walking & Bicycling

   The entire trail is open to walking and bicycling when there is less than one inch of snow coverage on the trail. The trail may be rough or soft in many sections. If you plan to bike the trail, the tread is more suitable for off-road bikes. Bikers mush share the trail with motorized vehicles and horses. Each bicyclist age 16 or older needs a Wisconsin State Trail Pass while using the trail.

Pet owners, please be sure to have your pet on a leash, 8 feet or shorter, at all times. You must pick up after your pet. Pet owners must share the trail with motorized vehicles and horses.

Horseback Riding

The entire trail is open to horseback riding when there is less than one inch of snow coverage on the trail. The trail may be rough or soft in many sections. Riders must share the trail with motorized vehicles. Each rider age 16 or older needs a Wisconsin State Trail Pass while using the trail.

Winter Activities

Snowmobiles are permitted on the trail. Operators must follow all Wisconsin snowmobile laws, including traveling no more than 15 miles per hour within any of the village limits. The Pecatonica State Trail also connects to numerous miles of Lafayette County snowmobile trails.

   The trail is open to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, however, the trail is not groomed, and skiers and snowshoers must share the trail with snowmobiles and ATVs.

More Information

See the links below for more information about activities, communities, area attractions, features and other useful links for the Pecatonica State Trail.

For more information, ask:

Lafayette County
626 Main Street
Darlington, WI 53530
(608) 776-5706