Big Poniatowski Trail

Trail details

Embark on an adventure along the Big Poniatowski Trail, which starts at Memorial Park in Athens, sharing its trailhead with the charming Athens Graventure Loop (Trail Route 39). This scenic route winds through the very heart of America’s Dairyland, guiding you past picturesque 100-year-old farms, classic red barns, and the unmistakable allure of cheese country. The trail dips into the lush forests of northern Wisconsin before looping back to Athens, rewarding you with a full spectrum of Midwestern beauty. Stretching for a generous 89.3 miles—with an impressive 89% made up of smooth, hardpacked red granite dairy and logging roads—this path is rated “Easy,” making it perfect for riders of all levels. Portions of the trail intertwine with the Athens Graventure, and for the best experience, follow the clockwise route! Look for Route 16 signs as your guide within Athens.

As you meander through the village, Alfred Street sets the stage—rolling by local favorites like the Landmark Bar and Main Street Market, and the historic Gazebo. Turning west on Kreutzer Street, you slip into Erbach Park on the northwest edge of town, where a delightful stretch of singletrack awaits. Here, Black Creek threads its way through dense forest, and the park’s network of “Easy”-rated trails (courtesy of the IMBA Rating System) invites families and young riders alike to enjoy nature up close.
Heading north, the landscape gently shifts as you enter Mennonite country. A brief spin along State Highway 97 leads you to Beaver Creek Road—passing the Blatz Inn and the beloved Stoney Acres Farm, famous for its delightful “Pizza on the Farm.” Here, the scenery transitions from open dairy land to whispering forests and a sense of true wilderness. On Martin Drive, a sharp right onto County M, then another onto River Drive, brings you past the Green Grove 4-H Park. Soon, Camp 8 Road welcomes you with a leafy canopy, where deer dart, wild turkeys cross your path, and—if you’re lucky—you may catch a glimpse of a black bear retreating into the woods. The historic Camp 8 CCC camp makes a perfect spot for a restful break or picnic, and don’t forget to refill your water bottles here. Continuing on, you’ll cross the famed Ice Age National Scenic Trail before heading south on Mink Road, with a convenient wayside park just off State Highway 64—an ideal spot to pause and soak in the surroundings.

A right turn onto Highland Road, then another onto Greiner Road, brings you alongside the Big Rib River State Fishery. Here, the soothing sound of rapids and tranquil views offer a peaceful respite—if only you’d remembered your fishing pole, you could try your luck for trout!

Traveling east on Silver Fox Road, which merges into County Line Road FF, you’ll head south on County Road S, passing Eddie’s Bar & Grill. It’s the perfect place to stop for a cold beer and a friendly game of cornhole during summer, or to savor a classic fish fry and an Old Fashioned on a cozy Friday night.
Before the final stretch, Amco County Park beckons with practical amenities—restrooms, picnic tables, shelter, playground, and potable water—while the cool, clear waters of the Big Rib River invite you to dip your feet and relax. As you pedal the last miles back to Athens, you’ll pass the Geological Center of the Northwestern Hemisphere and enjoy some singletrack trails before re-entering the village at Athens Park. Keep an eye out for historical markers and mileage points thoughtfully placed along the trail, enhancing your journey with local stories and context.

The Big Poniatowski Trail isn’t just a ride—it’s an immersive journey through the region’s rural charm and natural wonders. Starting at Memorial Park in Athens and sharing a trailhead with the Athens Graventure Loop (Route 39), this 89.3-mile adventure (with 89% on hardpacked granite roads) loops through a tapestry of farmland, forest, and cheese country before returning to its starting point. Overlapping with parts of the Graventure Loop and best enjoyed clockwise, it’s clearly marked as Route 16 to keep you oriented and inspired along the way.

Along the route, riders experience the friendly spirit of Athens, the tranquility of Erbach Park, the changing scenery from farmland to forest, and the unique flavor of local stops like Stoney Acres Farm. The ride offers a chance to spot wildlife, relax at historic CCC Camp 8, cross the iconic Ice Age Trail, and find scenic rest stops. It’s a route filled with moments to pause, savor, and enjoy the best of Wisconsin’s countryside.
Whether you’re delighting in the soothing views along Greiner Road, trying your luck at Eddie’s Bar & Grill, or enjoying family-friendly facilities at Amco County Park, the Big Poniatowski Trail promises an unforgettable ride—complete with scenic beauty, small-town hospitality, and a dash of adventure around every bend.

Distance: 89.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Surface: 89% Red granite gravel
Elevation Gain: 1,600 feet
Trailhead: Memorial Park, Athens (Route 16 signage in town)
Parking:Available at Memorial Park in Athens

Trail Highlights:

• Memorial Park trailhead amenities and Athens town services
• Erbach Park singletrack section along Black Creek
• Mennonite farm country and classic red barn scenery
• Stoney Acres Farm (“Pizza on the Farm”)
• CCC Camp 8 historic stop and rest area
• Crossing of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail
• Big Rib River State Fishery scenic views
• Eddie’s Bar & Grill stop along the route
• Amco County Park amenities (restrooms, water, shelter, playground)
• Geological Center of the Northwestern Hemisphere marker