With a day as gorgeous as today, it was impossible to stay inside, so I grabbed a friend to go along with me on one of the many trails that Eau Claire has to offer. The one that’s closest to us on campus is the Chippewa River Trail, and it’s absolutely beautiful. It has been one of my favorite paths to roam ever since my freshman year here.
The trail starts in Eau Claire at Phoenix Park and goes on for a full 30 miles heading towards Durand- which is something I never knew before. It’s really great because it’s a nice wide path and paved, so it’s great for biking and rollerblading/skating. The really cool thing is that it’s even open in the wintertime for cross country skiing and snowmobiling.
In order to keep up with maintenance, the county does ask for people biking or skating to buy passes. Since Chippewa River Trail is a state trail, a $20 pass will get you on any state trail during the year, otherwise a day pass is $4, and you don’t need one if you’d like to just go walking or under 16 years old.
It really is a great way to get out and see some nature, plus there are tons of parks along the way to stop for a nice picnic or a rest.
