Kendall in Monroe County, Wisconsin — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)

Elroy–Sparta State Trail

Photographed by Keith L, May 5, 2009

1. Elroy-Sparta State Trail Marker

Inscription.

This 32 mile state trail was formerly the mainline of the Chicago and North Western Railway. The conversion from “rail to trail” represented a new concept in recreational development. Utilizing the abandoned railbed, it was the first trail of its kind in the United States to be designated a National Recreational Trail by the United States Department of Interior. The trail is primarily used for bicycling, hiking and snowmobiling. Passing through scenic areas, it links the communities of Elroy, Kendall, Wilton, Norwalk and Sparta. Added attractions are its three tunnels, the longest being 3,833 feet. Train service began in 1873 as steam locomotives hauled grain, livestock and passengers. Rail service ended in 1964. The trail was established by the Department of Natural Resources in 1965 and opened to the public in 1967.

Erected 1979 by Wisconsin Historical Society. (Marker Number 253.)

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Railroads & Streetcars. In addition, it is included in the Wisconsin Historical Society series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1873.

Location. 43° 47.6′ N, 90° 22.129′ W. Marker is in Kendall, Wisconsin, in Monroe County. It can be reached from White Street (County

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Highway P) north of South Railroad Street (State Highway 71), on the left when traveling north. The marker is by the trail at the Kendall Depot. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 113 White Street, Kendall WI 54638, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this marker is in the American Midwest,

on the Great Lakes,

and in the Corn Belt.

Globally, it is in North America,

the Western Hemisphere,

the Western World,

and the Anglosphere.

Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture

and also the Northwest Territory.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 11 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies: Elroy – Sparta State Trail (approx. 5½ miles away); Admiral Marc A. Mitscher, U.S. Navy (approx. 9.8 miles away); African American Settlers of Cheyenne Valley (approx. 10 miles away); Mt. Vernon Cemetery Civil War Memorial (approx. 10 miles away); Castle Rock (approx. 10.4 miles away); Eroding Sandstone Bluffs (approx. 10.4 miles away); Mesas and Buttes (approx. 10.4 miles away); Ice Age National Scientific Reserve (approx. 10½ miles away).

Photographed by Keith L, May 5, 2009

2. Elroy-Sparta State Trail Marker

Elroy-Sparta State Trail Marker and Depot image. Click for full size.

Photographed by Keith L, May 5, 2009

3. Elroy-Sparta State Trail Marker and Depot

Restored Kendall Train Depot image. Click for full size.

Photographed by Keith L, May 5, 2009

4. Restored Kendall Train Depot

Nearby Plaque image. Click for full size.

Photographed by Keith L, May 5, 2009

5. Nearby Plaque

Dedicated to the Memory of
Michael D. Witt (1950-1998)
Born and raised in this area, Mike was a
respected DNR water quality engineer and
supervisor along with being an avid bicyclist.
A beloved family member, colleague, and
friend, he was taken from us far too soon.
Mike, we miss you.
June 2000

Plaque on Shelter image. Click for full size.

Photographed by Keith L, May 5, 2009

6. Plaque on Shelter

The trail is to the right of the shelter.

Credits. This page was last revised on January 6, 2026. It was originally submitted on May 7, 2009, by Keith L of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. This page has been viewed 1,516 times since then and 38 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. submitted on May 7, 2009, by Keith L of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. • Kevin W. was the editor who published this page.