Mountain Biking Trail Opening Soon in Waukesha

Editor’s Note: The following information was provided to Waukesha Patch via a news release from Waukesha County.

Waukesha County Executive Dan Vrakas announced Monday the grand opening of the Waukesha County Park System’s first Mountain Bike Trail within Minooka Park.  The first phase, approximately 1.5 miles, will open to residents on Saturday, June 1 (National Trails Day) at 9 a.m. following a ribbon cutting event open to the public.

Once all three phases are complete, the network of trails will be about five miles in total length.  They are located near picnic shelter 5, within Minooka Park, 1927 E. Sunset Dr. in Waukesha.

“Part of the Waukesha County Park System mission is to provide our citizens with many different recreation opportunities and activities,” said County Executive Dan Vrakas.  “The mountain bike trails will meet a community and regional need, and promote bicycling and outdoor activities in the park. It is the goal of Waukesha County to offer amenities in our parks that help attract employees to Waukesha County and continue to provide resources for healthy lifestyles.”

Waukesha County has partnered with the Waukesha Bicycle Alliance (WBA) in the design, construction and maintenance of the mountain bike trails at Minooka Park. Currently, Waukesha County has less than five miles of off-road trails designated for bicycles.

“The alliance promotes getting more people riding on bikes in more places, and that included off-road biking on trails,” said Ron Stawicki, president of WBA.  “Minooka Park was the perfect fit, and we are happy to be a part of this recreational opportunity.”

"I would like to thank the Waukesha Bike Alliance who has devoted over 460 volunteer hours on planning and building these trails.  It’s because of the commitment of active groups within Waukesha County, like the Bike Alliance, that help make proposals like this a reality,” said Vrakas. 

The grand opening event is free and open to the public. The $4 entrance fee will be applied after noon.  There will not be an additional cost to use the mountain bike trails above the $4 per car daily entrance fee into Minooka Park. 

The hours of operation will be consistent with the normal park hours, sunrise to 10 p.m., unless posted otherwise.  The trail will be open from April 1 to Nov. 31, weather permitting.  During winter, snowshoeing will be permitted on the trail.

Make National Trails Day a reason to get outside and get active!  American Hiking Society's National Trails Day is the country's largest celebration of trails.  After you enjoy a bike or hike on one of the county’s many trails, stop by to cool off at one of the six beaches that will be opening for the season.

The Waukesha County Park System is a natural resource based park system that demonstrates stewardship while providing recreational and educational opportunities.  For more information visit www.waukeshacountyparks.com or call (262) 548-7801.