Rail trail · Wisconsin
Newton Blackmour State Trail
A 9-mile crushed-limestone rail-trail in Manitowoc County threading through rural northeastern Wisconsin farmland and small communities near the Lake Michigan coast.
Length
9 miles
Surface
Crushed stone
Route
Point to point
Endpoints
Newton to Blackmour (Manitowoc County)
Season
May through October for biking and walking; snowmobile use in winter after snowfall.
Plan your ride or walk
The Newton Blackmour State Trail covers 9 miles of crushed-limestone rail-trail through the gently rolling farm country of Manitowoc County in northeastern Wisconsin, within easy reach of Lake Michigan and the Two Rivers area. The corridor follows a former railroad grade through open agricultural land and small woodlots, offering a relaxed and uncrowded trail experience well suited to family rides and casual walks. As a shorter, quieter trail, it lacks the destination draw of the larger Wisconsin rail-trails but serves the local community well and provides access to the Lake Michigan coastal area for visitors combining trail riding with a visit to Two Rivers or Manitowoc. A Wisconsin State Trail Pass is required for cyclists 16 and older.
Getting there
The trail is in Manitowoc County, northeastern Wisconsin, roughly 2 hours north of Milwaukee via I-43. Manitowoc and Two Rivers are the nearest larger towns, both accessible from I-43. Trailhead parking is available at the Newton end of the trail.
Official trail information
Confirm current conditions, closures, and any required trail pass on the managing agency’s page.
Wisconsin DNR: Newton Blackmour State TrailWhat to bring
Gear keyed to a long, flat trail day: footwear, hydration, sun protection, and a pack sized for the distance.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Newton Blackmour State Trail?
The Newton Blackmour State Trail is about 9 miles long, running point to point on a flat, crushed-limestone former-railroad grade in Manitowoc County. Most visitors ride it as an out-and-back.
What is nearby the Newton Blackmour State Trail?
The trail is close to Lake Michigan and the towns of Two Rivers and Manitowoc. Two Rivers has a lakefront area and local dining; Manitowoc is home to the Wisconsin Maritime Museum, making it a reasonable day-trip pairing.
Do you need a pass for the Newton Blackmour State Trail?
Yes. A Wisconsin State Trail Pass is required for cyclists 16 and older. Walking and running are free. The same pass is valid on all Wisconsin state trails.
Is the Newton Blackmour State Trail suitable for families?
Yes. The flat surface and modest length make it a good family trail. The crushed-limestone surface suits hybrid bikes, kids' bikes, and sturdy strollers. There are no major road crossings or elevation changes to manage.
More Wisconsin trails
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