New Trail to Connect St. Germain and Eagle River, Boosting Local Economy and Recreation
Plans are underway for a significant new addition to Wisconsin’s trail systems, promising to enhance both recreational opportunities and economic benefits in the region. The proposed 10-mile River Trail aims to link the Heart of Vilas County trail in St. Germain with the Three-Eagle Trail in Eagle River, following the Highway 70 corridor.
Heading the initiative is Laura Van Valkenberg, President of the Great Headwaters Trails Foundation. This organization is known for its efforts in establishing the Conover-Phelps Trail and is now dedicated to realizing the River Trail vision.
“Anybody who is riding on the Heart of Vilas Bike Trail System in Saint Germain and hits that point where the trail ends today would see signs directing them to follow old Highway 70. It’s a very low-use road. It’s a safe road for biking, beautiful road,” said Van Valkenberg. “Then when it hits new Highway 70, it will then become an off-road paved trail, which will be absolutely beautiful.”
The project’s first phase has received a financial boost with the Town of Cloverland securing $1.3 million from the Federal Transportation Alternatives Program via the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. This grant will cover 80 percent of the initial costs.
The Great Headwaters Trails Foundation is tasked with raising the remaining funds and handling the engineering design work. Phase one will include signage along Old Highway 70 and 1.9 miles of a newly paved off-road trail.
Local businesses are expressing enthusiasm for the trail, inspired by the economic success of the Heart of Vilas trail system, which generates nearly $26 million annually for the communities it serves. Van Valkenberg noted, “We really want to help spread that, increase that, and bring some of that over to eastern Vilas County.”
Beyond economic gains, the trail is also seen as a valuable asset for local residents. “I think about all of us that live here that want to have safe places, easy access to get out there and enjoy the Northwoods, how important that is. Places that you can ride or walk that are not on a shoulder of a road that provide you with safe, easy trails to get to,” shared Van Valkenberg.
Construction is anticipated to commence in 2029, with funding scheduled for release in fiscal year 2030. Meanwhile, the Great Headwaters Trails Foundation continues its fundraising efforts. More information on these efforts is available on their website.
One of the foundation’s significant fundraising events, the SepTimber Ride, is scheduled for this Saturday, September 12. This event offers cyclists a scenic ride along the Three-Eagle Trail between Tribute Brewing and Three Lakes Winery. Van Valkenberg commented, “The SepTimber ride just brings a lot of people in that just are here for the cool weather, the fall colors that are just starting to come out, and it’s just so much camaraderie. It’s a blast. I love it.”
