Hickory Ridge

Hickory Ridge Trail: Wisconsin's Untamed Nature Meets Mountain Biking Bliss

Overview

Tucked away 13 miles northeast of Bloomer, Wisconsin, the Hickory Ridge Trail is an outdoor haven that has riders raving about its scenic vistas and flowing singletrack. Conceived and executed in line with IMBA (International Mountain Bike Association) guidelines, the trail stretches over 15 miles and is primed for an expansion in the near future.

How to Get There

• Distance from Bloomer: Approximately 13 miles
• Route type: Loop
• Level: Intermediate
• Directions: Head east on Hwy 64 from Bloomer for 5 miles. Make a north turn onto County AA, followed by an eastward turn after 4 miles onto 226th Ave. Continue for about 4 miles and look for the Hickory Ridge trailhead sign on the north side of the road.

The Ride Experience

Winding through a labyrinth of wilderness lakes—seven by one rider's count—the Hickory Ridge Trail offers cyclists an adventure steeped in the tranquility of nature. The trail is well-marked and includes plenty of forks, allowing riders to tailor their journey's length. While you won't find an abundance of berms or jumps here, the trail's natural elements, such as minor roots and rocks, ensure that it never gets dull.

Features & Terrain

• Flowing singletrack with mild inclines and descents
• Trail largely avoids technical features, but still presents some roots and rocks
• Some manageable climbs, each invariably rewarded with a flowy downhill stretch
• IMBA-approved trail development
• Lakes, ridges, and mature forests amplify the visual appeal

Maintenance and Trail Quality

While one rider did note some trails had branches and sticks, the majority of riders report a well-maintained track, even praising the new reroutes for enhancing ride quality. Active maintenance and future expansion plans reveal a trail system that is already impressive but has even greater potential.

Additional Information

• Best time to ride: Spring until mid-June, and then from August onwards, to avoid the 'show no mercy' deerfly population.
• Upcoming events: An annual race named 'The Deerfly Chase' takes place at the end of September.
• Trail length: Currently 15 miles, with plans to double in the future
• Nearby trails: Numerous other enticing trails lie less than an hour away, making Hickory Ridge a great stop on a multi-day biking itinerary.

Takeaways

Hickory Ridge Trail is what happens when a love for mountain biking meets a deep appreciation for untouched nature. Though it might lack in jumps or uber-technical features, it more than compensates with the sheer beauty of its surroundings. Riders from as far away as Minneapolis are beginning to take notice, making it less of a well-kept secret and more of a must-ride destination. Whether you're riding through managed timber areas or past idyllic lakes, the Hickory Ridge Trail in Bloomer, Wisconsin offers an intermediate mountain biking experience that's as flowy as it is scenic.So, why keep it a secret? As one rider put it, "It's remote enough and big enough. Please come and enjoy!"Happy riding!