The rift
Where the Land Breaks Open
About This Region
Where the Land Breaks Open
The Rift traces Wisconsin’s northwestern edge where ancient bedrock fractures, river valleys, and glacial deposits create a bold and varied landscape. From Lake Superior’s shoreline to the St. Croix River corridor, this region is defined by sharp transitions — forest to farmland, high ground to deep valleys, remote stretches to lively river towns.
Spanning eight counties, The Rift offers expansive gravel riding across pine forests, rolling uplands, and river-cut terrain. Routes climb onto exposed ridges, descend into broad valleys, and connect communities shaped by shipping, logging, and river trade. With long distances between towns and wide-open scenery, this region rewards riders looking for scale, solitude, and variety.
Laurentian Divide
Ride the high ground where water flows north to Lake Superior or south to the Mississippi River.
What Makes The Rift Special
Continental Divide
Ride the height of land between two watersheds
Lake Superior Access
River Corridors
Wide-Open Miles
Long stretches of gravel with minimal interruption
explore trails
Where The Divided Roads Begin
Port towns, river communities, and small hubs offering food, lodging, and character at key points across the region.
Trail listings coming soon.
Trail towns in The Rift
Port towns, river communities, and small hubs offering food, lodging, and character at key points across the region.
Washburn
Superior
Siren
Shell Lake
Balsam Lake
A welcoming small town with amenities and easy access to rolling western Wisconsin routes.
Hudson
Ellsworth
Ready to Ride?
Wisconsin's gravel trails are waiting and we're here to help you discover the ride of a lifetime.
Find Trail Regions
Browse our regions to discover routes perfect for your skill level.
Plan your visit
Download trail guides, check conditions, and find lodging.
Explore Events
Check out gravel biking events across the state.