By ob in October, 2010
!0-20-2010
I took Timbee's advice and tried the Chippewa River State Park Trail with a background of Fall colors, although I probably missed the peak by a week. The trail is pleasant and varied in scenery. The big thing to be aware of, however, is the severe damage from the summer 2010 storms. One section is technically closed, but you can get past it by carrying your bike through the washout. Repairs are in process.
By timbee in June, 2010
I enjoyed riding the Chippewa the day before I did the Red Cedar (trails join at southern end of RC); very peaceful & quiet, few others on it during the week. The in-between towns are very small with limited amenities. Both Durand & Eau Claire have many restaurant choices and pleasant parks.
The surface was quite variable; it's paved all the way from Durand to Eau Claire. The two ends are the best with Durand having very nice, smooth asphalt. The middle sections aren't so hot--many rough places even with weeds growing up in the middle of the pavement. The scenery along the Chippewa is very nice & it's not at all hilly. I'm sure a fall ride would have spectacular color.
By dreamshark in October, 2008
My husband and I rode from Eau Claire to Caryville in June, 2008, and had a wonderful ride. I don't have a lot to add to Dennis's excellent and thorough review, but here are a few random notes.
This is a good summertime trip because there is quite a bit of shade, plus the cooling effects of the river. Even the section of trail that runs through Eau Claire is shady and pleasant, tracking right along the river near the college. There is an amazing variety of scenery on this trail, ranging from city to wetland to rolling prairie to the occasional soybean field. We were charmed to come upon a pair of enormous Sandhill Cranes spearing frogs in one of the swampy areas. We were also amused by what seemed to be hundreds of baby bunnies scampering frantically back and forth across the trail. And if you like bridges, this is your trail! I looked back at pictures I took on the trip and they seem to be one arty bridge shot after another.
Having read Dennis's description of the rest of the trail, I look forward to seeing more of it next year.