FIRST - Rail to trail designated Nat. Recreational Trail
N 43° 47.602 W 090° 22.126
15T E 711690 N 4852288
The Elroy-Sparta rail-to-trail was the first trail of its kind in the United States to be designated a National Recreational Trail by the United States Department of Interior. The headquarters for the trail is here in Kendall, WI.
Waymark Code: WM20XG
Location: Wisconsin, United States
Date Posted: 08/17/2007
Views: 16
Text from the marker reads:
“This 32 mile state trail was formerly the mainline of the Chicago and North Western Railway. The conversion from “rail to trail” represented a new concept in recreational development. Utilizing the abandoned railbed, it was the first trail of its kind in the United States to be designated a National Recreational Trail by the United States Department of Interior. The trail is primarily used for bicycling, hiking and snowmobiling. Passing through scenic areas, it links the communities of Elroy, Kendall, Wilton, Norwalk and Sparta. Added attractions are its three tunnels, the longest being 3,833 feet. Train service began in 1873 as steam locomotives hauled grain, livestock and passengers. Rail service ended in 1964. The trail was established by the Department of Natural Resources in 1965 and opened to the public in 1967.
FIRST - Classification Variable: Place or Location
Date of FIRST: 01/01/1967
More Information - Web URL: [Web Link]
|
Visit Instructions:As a suggestion for your visit log, please make every effort to supply a brief-to-detailed note about your experience at the Waymark. If possible also include an image that was taken when you visited the Waymark. Images can be of yourself, a personal Waymarking signature item or just one of general interest that would be of value to others. Sharing your experience helps promote Waymarking and provides a dynamic history of your adventures.