Dave's Shuttle Service

05/21/2026

Over the next few days, we'll be featuring a different bike trail that passes right through our Commons!

First up is the historic Elroy-Sparta Trail, proudly known as "America's First Rail Trail." This scenic 32.5-mile route connects Elroy, Kendall, Wilton, Norwalk, and Sparta.

The Tunnels: The trail features three historic tunnels, ranging up to 3/4 of a mile long.

What to Pack: The tunnels are dark and cool, so flashlights and jackets are essential for your ride.

Trail Passes: Required for bikers ages 16 and older.

Scan the QR code on the flyer below to view the official DNR History and Story Map to plan your next ride.

Have you ever ridden the Elroy-Sparta Trail? Share your favorite stops or memories in the comments!

05/01/2026

🚲 DUST OFF THOSE BIKES—THE TUNNELS ARE OPENING! 🚲

The moment we’ve been waiting for is finally here! Join the Sparta Area Chamber of Commerce as we officially kick off the bike riding season with our Opening Tunnel Celebration, Elroy Sparta Trail

Whether you’re a local pro or a casual cruiser, come out and celebrate our beautiful Sparta-Elroy State Bike Trail!

📅 THE DETAILS
WHEN: Saturday, May 2nd

TIME: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

WHERE: The Depot 111 Milwaukee St. Sparta, WI 54656

RIBBON CUTTING: 10:00 AM with Mayor Kevin and the Miss Sparta Organization.

🎉 WHAT’S HAPPENING?
We’ve got a full lineup of community fun for the whole family:

🍔 Chug 'n Good Eats Food Truck

🍦 Ice cream with Fred from Sparta Ice Cream Co.

🎨 Face painting by Tonya from The Edge

🚒 Western Technical College Fire Service Trainings Fire Truck on-site

🛍️ Fun grab bags from the Sparta Free Library

🎶 Live music and great vibes all day!

🏆 BIKE DECORATING CONTEST
Want to win some prizes? Show up with your bike already decked out, OR use the decorations provided by the Chamber to style your ride on the spot! We want to see the most creative bikes in Sparta!

🚲 DON’T STOP THERE!
The fun continues the very next day! Join the Fred Greens Community Bike Ride on Sunday, May 3rd at 10:00 AM. We’ll be meeting at the iconic Ben Bikin statue to keep the momentum going.

Come be a part of the community, enjoy the scenery, and let’s start the season right! We’ll see you at the tunnels! 🌲✨

04/29/2026

🚴‍♂️ GEAR UP, RIDERS! THE TUNNELS ARE OPENING! 🚴‍♀️

The wait is finally over! This weekend marks the official season opening of the legendary Elroy Sparta Trail tunnels. If you call yourself a cyclist, this is the "bucket list" ride you absolutely have to tackle this summer. May 1st 2026~

As America’s very first rails-to-trails project, this 32.5-mile route isn't just a ride—it’s a trip through history. You’ll pedal through stunning wetlands, prairies, and the rugged beauty of Wisconsin’s unglaciated driftless area.

🔦 THE TUNNEL EXPERIENCE
The stars of the show are the three massive rock tunnels, each over 140 years old!

Kendall & Wilton Tunnels: Each a quarter-mile of cool, dark adventure.

The Big One (Norwalk/Sparta): A massive 0.75-mile trek underground!

Pro-Tips for the Tunnels: * Bring a flashlight—it gets pitch black in there!

Walk Your Bike through the tunnels for safety it's wet and rocky.

Pack a light jacket—it stays chilly even on 90° days.

Watch for the "mountain dew"—natural spring water often trickles from the ceiling!

🏰 MAKE SPARTA YOUR HOME BASE
Don’t just ride and drive away! Turn your trip into a summer getaway by staying a few days right here in Sparta. There is so much more to explore:

Downtown Vibes: Shop our local boutiques and grab a delicious bite to eat at our in town local eateries.

Culture & History: Visit our local museums and admire the iconic bridges that make our town so photogenic.

Beyond the Bike: Swap your helmet for a life vest! Grab a kayak or a fishing pole and hit our beautiful local waterways.

Concerts in the Park: If you’re here on a Wednesday (May 20th – August 26th), head over to Evans-Bosshard Park from 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm for the Sparta Area Chamber of Commerce’s Concerts in the Park! 🎶

On Saturday head to Water St in Downtown Sparta for The Sparta Farmer's Market May 9th-October 10th 8 am-1pm.

Whether you’re a distance pro or a family looking
for a weekend adventure, Sparta is the place to be this summer.😎🎣🔅🍺☀️🚴🚴‍♀️🛶🎶🦋

Explore Monroe County Sparta Area Chamber of Commerce Friends of Wildcat Mountain State Park

04/28/2026

Ready to hit the trails without the "how do I get back to my car" headache? 🚴‍♂️💨

Meet Dave's Shuttle Service! Whether you’re planning a ride through the iconic tunnels of the Elroy Sparta Trail or exploring the scenic 400 State Trail, La Crosse River State Trail, and Great River State Trail, Dave has you covered.

Why book a shuttle with Dave?
Dave provides a seamless, stress-free experience so you can focus on the ride and the scenery. Here’s how it works:

Park & Ride: You park at your finish line, and Dave picks you and your bikes up to drop you at the start.

Ride at Your Pace: Once you’re dropped off, there’s no rush! Stop for photos, lunch, or ice cream—your car is already waiting for you at the end..

Top-Tier Equipment: Dave uses a comfortable Lincoln MKX and heavy-duty Hollywood racks (including a specialized trailer for larger groups) that safely transport everything from standard bikes and e-bikes to fat tires and recumbents.

📍 Service Areas:
Elroy-Sparta State Trail

400 State Trail

La Crosse River State Trail

Great River State Trail

💳 Logistics:
Capacity: Standard shuttles for up to 4 people (additional accommodations available upon request).

Payment: Cash or Venmo on the day of your ride.

Booking: Reservations are highly recommended!

Note: This is a private service provided by Dave Heilman and is not offered by the Sparta Area Chamber of Commerce Welcom Center.

Ready to book your adventure? Don’t leave it to chance—reach out to Dave directly to secure your spot. He may be behind the wheel helping other riders, so if he doesn't pick up, leave a message or send a text!

📞 Call or Text Dave: 608-487-3271
📧 Email: [email protected]

See you on the trails! 🌲🚲✨
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574299202286
Explore Monroe County

04/17/2026

Elroy-Sparta State Trail Property Notice:  View all property notices Info Reserve Recreation Maps Hours The trail is open year-round. Read More Directions Get directions to the property. Read More Admission A state trail pass is required for bicycling. Read More Volunteer See volunteering opportuni...

04/05/2026