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Print Friendly MapJanesville's Spring Brook Trail provides an important non-motorized route to many of the city's popular recreational amenities. The pathway begins just off the eastern terminus of the Rock River Parkway Trail and crosses the river on its journey through the city's northeastern neighborhoods.
Along the way, the trail provides access to Jeffris Park, Lions Park (and the Rotary Botanical Gardens), Blackhawk Meadows Park and Palmer Park.
Parking is available along the Spring Brook Trail at Jeffris Park (850 Beloit Avenue), Lions Park (1455 Palmer Drive), Blackhawk Meadows Park (450 S. Lexington Drive) and Palmer Park (2501 Palmer Drive).
We rode the trail northbound from Palmer Park. One caution I'd offer is it can be confusing because the signage reflects the Ice Age Trail more than the Spring Brook Trail. Possibly because this area seems to be convergent with several trails, including the Peace trail heading south (another very nice ride). Back to the northbound ride; once you go under highway 14, you'll find the trail splits, showing the Ice Age Trail turning left/westbound, and another trail (unmarked) heading due north. We decided to investigate the unmarked trail and found it very pleasant. The trail ended at East Rotamer Road, a short distance east of the left trailhead had we taken the other option by highway 14. We decided to ride E. Rotamer Rd. Westbound a short distance to the other trailhead and take it back to Palmer Park. Travel on Rotamer road was very easy. Designated bike lanes and light traffic helped considerably. In the end, the loop was a wonderful, enjoyable ride. As an aside, taking the trail south from Palmer Park, in the area of the Rotary Botanical Garden, you'll find the Peace Trail. One final note: there are several trail options in area; you might consider keeping your trail app active. My wife and I will definitely be returning.
This is truly one of the best paths I have ridden. I recommend parking at Palmer Park and then taking the path Northeast. This portion of the path goes through a really pretty wooded area before going into a prairie and subdivision area. There are a few roads to cross, but there is hardly any traffic. The path is very well maintained. You can also take the path Southwest and it will connect up to the Rock River Parkway Trail and that connects to the Peace Trail to the South. The Rock River Parkway and Peace Trails are a bit more industrial, but are still well maintained. There are very few restrooms along the way, and Palmer Park has nice ones, but they are only open seasonally (April-October). This path would be good for any kind of bike, and I have seen several different types on it. This is now my new "home" path!
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