Biking & Bike Trails in Door County
Pedal on Roads, Highways, & Forest Trails
Biking in Door County is one of the best ways to explore our beautiful peninsula and islands. Bike-friendly roads welcome cyclists of all skill levels, while the challenges of off-road bike trails appeal to adrenaline seekers. No matter what kind of biking adventure you’re searching for, you’ll find this resource essential for planning your next cycling adventure in Door County.
Biking & Trails Highlights
With trails for every skill level and landscapes to match any mood, we’ll help you find the perfect ride to make the most of your Door County adventure.
Door County Bike Trails
Newport State Park
On the remote northeast tip of the Door Peninsula, Newport State Park offers about 17 miles of off-road bike trails through boreal forests, meadows, and along Lake Michigan’s rugged shoreline. Trails are mostly hard-packed dirt with some rocks and roots, making them best for hybrid or mountain bikes. Routes range from the 7-mile Europe Bay/Hotz Trail to shorter loops, including the Newport Loop (5 miles), Rowley’s Bay (4 miles), and the Monarch Trail (1 mile). With easy to moderate difficulty and minimal elevation, Newport is a scenic and peaceful spot for cycling in Door County.
Peninsula State Park
Peninsula State Park is one of Door County’s best cycling destinations, now featuring both family-friendly paths and a growing mountain bike system. The 9.6-mile Sunset Bike Route begins near Fish Creek and passes marshes, forests, and cliffs, with options to extend via a four-mile loop at Nicolet Beach or the Hidden Bluff spur. The first phase of mountain biking trails, The Blue Loop, a professionally designed and built MBT with berms, rollers, and rock features, is open. More purpose-built mountain biking trails are under construction and opening soon. Wear high-visibility gear during hunting season.
Potawatomi State Park
Whitefish Dunes State Park
Biking is allowed at Whitefish Dunes State Park, but only on designated bike trails near the office along the Red Trail to S. Cave Point Drive, the Third Beach access to Clark Lake Road, and from the office to Schauer Road. Biking is not allowed on the beach, dunes, or hiking trails.
Ahnapee Trail
Best Door County Bike Rides
Glidden Drive
Glidden Drive is a peaceful six-mile stretch along Lake Michigan just south of Whitefish Dunes State Park. This low-traffic route is ideal for bike riders seeking a quiet, tree-lined ride with glimpses of sand dunes and lake views. Extend your ride and connect to County Road T or TT toward Sturgeon Bay to discover sweeping views of the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal and rolling countryside.
Bay Shore Drive
Bay Shore Drive offers one of the most scenic shoreline rides in Door County. The 13-mile paved route follows the curve of Green Bay, starting at Sunset Park in Sturgeon Bay and heading north to Frank E. Murphy Park in Egg Harbor. Riders will pass stretches of forest, quiet bayside neighborhoods, and open water views. It’s a favorite for cyclists looking for a smooth, low-traffic road with spots to pull off, rest, and take in the landscape.
County Road Q
Starting just north of Baileys Harbor near The Ridges Sanctuary, this nine-mile ride along County Road Q winds past the Mud Lake State Wildlife Area, Moonlight Bay, and North Bay. Riders can stop at viewpoints along the way to take in the natural scenery and snap some photos for the ‘gram. Add to the delight by taking a quick detour to Cana Island to see the iconic lighthouse.
Washington Island
Go off the beaten path and ride your bike through paradise at Washington Island. A fun ferry ride delivers you to more than 100 miles of paved roads where traffic is light. Riders can follow routes to Schoolhouse Beach, lavender farms, wooded backroads, and historic churches. And everywhere are stunning lake views. BYOB: bring your own bike, they are welcome on the ferry! No ride is no problem, with rentals available on the island.
Leave No Trace: Biking Basics
Know Before You Go
Before a biking adventure, make sure you’re prepared. Ride within your abilities and always wear a properly fitted helmet and any necessary safety gear. On public roads, follow Wisconsin biking laws: ride with the flow of traffic; stay alert; and avoid lingering in drivers’ blind spots, especially at intersections and stop signs. Use hand signals when turning and be extra cautious at crossings and driveways.
Stay on Designated Trails and Roads
To protect Door County’s natural environment and keep trails sustainable, ride only on established biking trails, paved routes, and designated dirt roads. Avoid riding through muddy spots or cutting through vegetation, which causes erosion, damages habitats, and unnecessarily widens trails. Sticking to marked paths also helps protect local wildlife and keeps Door County’s parks and preserves enjoyable for everyone.
Practice Good Trail Etiquette
Respect other trail users to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Yield to hikers and horseback riders, and be prepared to stop or dismount on narrow or crowded trails. When riding downhill, yield to uphill cyclists. On multi-use trails, ring a bell or say “on your left” before passing, and ride single file on roads to allow vehicles to pass safely. Obey all posted signs and trail rules, and help set a positive example for others to follow.
State Parks Trail Maps
Newport State Park
Peninsula State Park
Potawatomi State Park
Rock Island State Park
Whitefish Dunes State Park
Door County Bike Rentals
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