Today's 90 mile ride didn't seem as long as previous rides in Montana or South Dakota. We followed the Elroy Sparta Trail and the 400 Trail. On the trail, we walked our bikes through three tunnels. The tunnels were originally for trains and were completed in 1873. The tunnels were so dark that we needed flashlights to guide our walk. What an awesome experience and another great day to remember.
Cycled only a few miles to the bridge over the Mississippi River. On the other side, we entered Wisconsin. Most of the day was spent on bike trails. The limestone surface was actually much better than some of the roads we've been on during this trip. With no cars and no barking dogs, while cycling on the trail, we were very relaxed. When we entered our final destination of the day, the town of Sparta, I discovered that this town is "the bicycle capital of the nation." The first rails to trails, 101 miles long, was completed here in 1976.
How about the price? Of course, it is the year 1902. The bicycle actually costs less if ordered without the wheels according to the ad.
Relaxing day. I walked around town and enjoyed viewing all the stained glass in various public buildings. In the afternoon I could not resist taking my bike out alone and circling Lake Winona. The black eyed Susan's and purple cone flowers surround bike path.
