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Sparta, Wisconsin You don’t earn the nickname of the “Biking Capital of America” unless you have some pretty fabulous trails, and Sparta, Wis.—located in the center of 101 miles of connected state bike trails and at the end of the famous 32-mile Elroy-Sparta Bike Trail—has rightfully earned the designation. The Elroy-Sparta Bike Trail, one of the first rails-to-trails in the country, offers some of the best sun-kissed scenery in the state, in addition to a limestone tunnel, circa 1880s. Visitors can enjoy a fun experience on the “Little” Ben Bikin’ Mystery Tour (“Big” Ben Bikin’ is a 32-foot fiberglass structure; “Little” Ben Bikin’ is a smaller town mascot); the Mystery Tour starts with breakfast at a 1957 soda fountain shop, past buildings rich in history and architecture (such as the former State School for Dependent or Neglected children where over 2000 children were housed until 1976), along the Elroy-Sparta Trail to your lodging destination. Sparta is located approximately 20 miles east of Lacrosse, via I-90. Drive the back roads of the area and enjoy beautiful scenery, charming Amish farms, and small communities. There are great places to eat, fantastic canoeing/kayaking in the autumn months, Fall Fest Oct. 3, and lovely lodging facilities, including several bed and breakfast inns and cabins. www.bikesparta.com