Trail Biking in Door County

Door County is home to dozens of miles of bike-friendly trails that will take you within view of bluffs, cliffsides, forests, shorelines, waterways, and other fantastic scenery.

But the biking trails are more than just sight-seeing tours. They’re high-speed chases that take riders over rocky and branch-ridden terrain, present them with unique geological obstacles, and offer just enough elevation to keep things interesting.

With cycling season upon us, now is the perfect time to get some inspiration for your next trail-biking excursion, whether you’re dreaming up a day trip or planning to spend a whole week exploring by bike.

Good to Knows

Trail Biking Guidelines

Staying on trail is your number one concern when biking in the wilderness. Riding off the trail, especially to avoid wet or muddy areas, can cause erosion and damage vegetation. 

In addition, be sure to:

• Always wear a helmet, proper footwear, and other safety gear.
• Keep your group, yourself, and others safe by always riding in control and within your group’s limits.
• Respect other trail users and protect the quality of their experience.
• Yield to hikers and equestrians and to uphill-traveling cyclists when you are descending.
• Be prepared to stop and dismount if the trail is narrow or crowded.
• Review all of the Door County Leave No Trace 7 Principles.

Bike Rentals

Don’t have your own bike or don’t want to trek it up to Door County? Rent one from a local equipment lender and be sure to ask about bike styles, helmets, and other gear. 

Rental providers are also great sources for insider knowledge on the area’s best trails and biking experiences.

Biking Trails in Door County

Potawatomi State Park

Tucked away to the east of Sturgeon Bay, Potawatomi State Park has 8 miles of off-road bike trails that travel through forests and offer frequent lake views. The terrain is easy to moderate, and riders can explore any and all park roads by bike.

View Trail Page

Newport State Park

This northeastern park has seven biking trails that can take you along the Lake Michigan shoreline, aside the peaceful inland Europe Lake, past quiet bays and coves, through dense forest, and in view of islands. Newport’s trails are some of the rockiest, uneven, and challenging in the region, so be prepared for a workout.

Try the 7-mile Europe Bay/Hotz Trail for a longer ride or the Rowley’s Bay Loop Trail for something a little calmer.

View Trail Page

Whitefish Dunes State Park

The biking trail in this lakeside park is a packed trail meandering past sand dunes and forestland.

Stop for a visit to Old Baldy, the tallest sand dune in the park. Note that biking is not allowed on the beach, sand dunes, or hiking-specific trails.

View Trail Page

Closer Look: The Ahnapee Trail

No matter where you pedal in Door County, you’re sure to see some beautiful sights. Get a preview of the scenery and landscapes you’re in for when you hit the Ahnapee State Trail in Southern Door in this installment of our Lesser Known video series.

Headed to Door County this spring? Be sure to read and sign the Door County Pledge and commit to exploring our parks, preserves, and outdoor spaces safely and responsibly.