Cyclist Will Bike All Wisconsin State Trails in October
Sarah Widder plans to ride the state's trail network to spotlight the need for sustainable outdoor funding.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Hiking
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Should your state government prioritize permanent funding for local public trails and outdoor spaces?
Beginning October 1, 2026, cyclist Sarah Widder will bike every state trail across Wisconsin. The journey aims to raise awareness regarding the requirement for reliable infrastructure funding following the expiration of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program.
Why it matters
The expiration of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program on June 30, 2026, creates uncertainty for the future maintenance of outdoor spaces. This ride serves as a public call to prioritize sustainable financial support for the trails that residents rely on for physical activity.
The Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program concluded its 40-year funding cycle on June 30, 2026. Data on how the absence of this funding will specifically impact individual trail maintenance projects remains under investigation.
The players
Sarah Widder
A cyclist who is riding across Wisconsin to advocate for sustainable outdoor infrastructure funding.
Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program
A state funding program that provided financial support for public land and trail conservation for 40 years.
The details
Widder will document her daily progress through blog posts while receiving support from local land trusts and trail advocacy groups. The effort highlights the reliance of outdoor infrastructure on consistent fiscal backing to keep trails accessible for public health and exercise.
Timeline
June 30, 2026: The Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program lapsed.
October 1, 2026: The bike ride begins on the Red Cedar State Trail.
October 22, 2026: A finish line celebration occurs in Menomonie from 5:30 to 7:30 pm.
Health Landscape
This effort highlights the broader vulnerability of public recreational infrastructure following the expiration of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program. It emphasizes the ongoing transition from a 40-year established funding model to an uncertain future for trail preservation.
As trail funding changes, staying informed about local access to outdoor exercise spaces becomes a priority for active residents. It is worth discussing the future of your local trail maintenance with your municipal representatives.
The takeaway
The end of long-standing conservation funding programs often impacts the quality and availability of public exercise infrastructure. Readers should track local land use updates to ensure their preferred outdoor areas remain supported and accessible.
What happens next
A final celebration for the Great State Trails Adventure will take place on October 22, 2026, at Lucette Brewing Company in Menomonie from 5:30 to 7:30 pm.
Further reading
For more on maintaining accessible paths in the state, visit Hiking.
More information
Find full event details at the Great State Trails Adventure event details.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KFIZ News-Talk 1450 AM.
Live Poll
Should your state government prioritize permanent funding for local public trails and outdoor spaces?
