Wisconsin provides some of the most beautiful scenery in the U.S., and Mark Frankel recommends enjoying it by motorcycle.
MADISON, WISCONSIN, August 22, 2022 — Few things are more enjoyable for a motorcycle enthusiast than a day of beautiful weather and an impromptu cruise on their favorite bike. Mark Frankel’s home state of Wisconsin provides a never-ending source of riding pleasure with scenic rural roads, riverside jaunts, and journeys through landmark cities available without ever journeying too far from home.
Each of the four rides is perfect for a planned trip or a jump on the bike and ride kind of day.
Mark Frankel shares four Wisconsin trails for motorcycle lovers
The Great River Road
The Great River Road cuts a north and south path through the middle U.S. along the Mississippi River and stretches upward to the origin in Minnesota. It is easy to hop on for a cruise north or south from several locations in Wisconsin. On Highway 35, the journey can start just north of East Dubuque, Illinois, in extreme southwest Wisconsin. For a fun day trip or even an overnight, consider winding up the river until reaching the Mississippi-adjacent city of LaCrosse.
Along the two to three-hour journey, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy scenic views of the river on one side and majestic bluffs and overlooks on the other. LaCrosse features a mighty bluff known as Granddad’s bluff with a breathtaking view of the Tri-River region, according to Mark Frankel, and the city also boasts a wide assortment of high-quality eateries and fun entertainment options for a weekend trip.
The Driftless Region
U.S. 14 bisects an area of Wisconsin known as the Driftless Region. This ancient countryside features incredible rolling hills and valleys carved into the earth and left undamaged as the region was passed over by the last major continental glacier. None of the usual natural debris, such as silt and rock, shaped the area, and it features a dense concentration of cold water streams.
Mark Frankel shares that local lore references the unique powers and energy associated with The Driftless Region. True or not, the area does maintain a pristine aura overall with side journeys through classic small towns, and at the end of the road, riders can take a break from the highway in Madison.
Door County
The Door County peninsula is north of Green Bay and Packers football and presents a beautiful longer excursion for south Wisconsin residents, Mark Frankel shares. From the Green Bay area, Wisconsin 57 presents a view of Lake Michigan, looking back toward Wisconsin on the initial ride north, and then cuts across the peninsula to provide a view of mighty Michigan in all its glory. Consider mapping out this journey for glorious fall colors as the weather changes.
Wisconsin River Trail
Wisconsin 60 provides a comfortable option for traveling along the Wisconsin River via a favorite touring bike. It’s a great solo route for a short drive and can be combined with the adjacent Driftless Region tour to create a longer journey. In the Lodi area, riders can also opt to travel further north along the river to reach the Wisconsin Dells. The tourist center offers plenty of options for an evening of entertainment.