Cyclist Launched 1,700-Mile Wisconsin Trail Ride
Sarah Widder is riding across state trails to advocate for the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in National Parks
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Sarah Widder began a 1,700-mile bicycle journey across Wisconsin on October 1 to draw attention to the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program. She is documenting her trek through daily blog posts as she traverses various state trails.
Why it matters
The initiative follows a June 2026 decision by state lawmakers to not renew funding for the long-standing conservation program. Widder aims to highlight the importance of the program, which has supported local land stewardship since 1989.
The planned route spans 1,700 miles across the state, starting on the Red Cedar State Trail. The journey is scheduled to conclude on October 22 at the Lucette Brewing Company in Menomonie.
The players
Sarah Widder
She is a cyclist currently traveling across Wisconsin state trails to raise awareness for land conservation.
Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program
This is a state-level conservation program that has provided funding for land protection and outdoor recreation in Wisconsin since 1989.
Lucette Brewing Company
Located in Menomonie, this local establishment is the designated finish line for the 1,700-mile bicycle ride.
The details
Widder is traveling exclusively by bicycle to visit various communities throughout Wisconsin. She is scheduled to reach Minocqua, Medford, and Antigo between October 5 and October 8, followed by a stop in Stevens Point on October 11 and 12.
Timeline
1989: The Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program began operations.
June 2026: Lawmakers declined to renew funding for the program.
October 1, 2026: Sarah Widder began her cross-state bicycle ride.
October 5-8, 2026: Widder visits Minocqua, Medford, and Antigo.
October 22, 2026: The ride concludes at Lucette Brewing Company.
Roadmap
The ride serves as a grassroots response to the recent legislative decision regarding the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program. This effort mirrors broader public advocacy movements that seek to preserve state-funded environmental initiatives through localized direct action.
Residents along the planned route can follow the journey through daily updates online to track her progress. Supporters of conservation may use this awareness campaign to engage with local representatives regarding the status of the program.
The takeaway
Advocacy efforts like this demonstrate how individuals utilize personal physical challenges to bring attention to legislative policy changes. Readers interested in conservation can follow the blog to see the specific trails and land areas being highlighted during the 1,700-mile journey.
Further reading
Learn more about the state's protected lands in the National Parks section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wsaw.
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