Elroy - Sparta and "400" Trail - Rides and Lodging

[cgilker]

Planning to take the family to Wisconsin this summer to ride the Elroy - Sparta and "400" bike trails. The "family" is the four of us with two kids, ages 7 and 4 1/2.

I am looking for info on the "best" parts of the trail to ride, i.e. interesting scenery, and good places to picnic / lunch / commune with nature. We won't be doing the whole trail, just bits and pieces, maybe twenty mile round trips.

Also, I am looking for lodging. Preferably, a "suite" with separate rooms - one for the kids and one for us. A pool would be a nice addition.

Come on, Cheeseheads (I am originally from Milwaukee, my wife is from Oshkosh), help me out!

 

[badger_biker]

I can't help with specifics on lodging since I've always camped in that area but I would guess Sparta would be your best bet. There are also interesting bicycle and space museums in town. Plus it's an easy drive on Hyw 71 to Norwalk or Wilton for bike starting points near the tunnels.
Wilton is a good starting point with a nice little park in town. You can head west to tunnels 2 and 3 or east to tunnel 1 and Kendall. It is kind of dull and open between Kendall and Elroy and likewise between tunnel 3 and Sparta. Here's a good link for more info.
http://www.elroy-sparta-trail.com/

I have never done the 400 so I can't help you there. Have a great trip!