Wisconsin State Park System Pecatonica State Trail

Running 10 miles through the picturesque Bonner Branch Valley, this county-operated trail links Belmont with the 47-mile Cheese Country Trail [exit DNR] in Calamine. 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.

Trail activities

The 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]

All-terrain vehicles

All-terrain vehicles 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.

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.

Walking and 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.

Winter activities

Snowmobiles are permitted on the trail. Operators must follow all Wisconsin snowmobile laws. The trail also connects to numerous miles of 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. Skiers do not need a trail pass while using the trail.

No Hunting and trapping allowed on trail

Hunting and trapping are not allowed on the trail corridor. For more information, please see:

• Hunting and trapping in Wisconsin State Parks

Directions

Belmont: Parking is available at Bond Park in Belmont, just off of State Highway 151.

Calamine: Parking is available near the connection of the Pecatonica and Cheese Country trails by County Highway G in Calamine.

The Cheese Country Trail which runs between Mineral Point and Monroe, connects to the Pecatonica State Trail in Calamine.

Volunteering

• Wisconsin State Park System volunteering opportunities

Department of Tourism listings

• Mineral Point [exit DNR]
• Platteville [exit DNR]

More in the area

• Cheese Country Trail [exit DNR]
• Lafayette County Tourism [exit DNR]
• Lafayette County [exit DNR]
• Belmont [exit DNR]
• Pendarvis [exit DNR]
• Wisconsin's First Capitol [exit DNR]