Flyway Trail Winona Connector

The Flyway Trail Winona Connector is perfect for walking and bicycling and includes use of the Highway 54 Interstate Bridge and the John A. Latsch Historical Wagon Bridge as well as the new 842-foot bridge over the Burlington-Northern Santa Fe railroad. Watching train traffic from above is a must-see for kids and adults alike. The total distance from the wagon bridge on Latsch Island in Winona to WI-Hwy 35 is just over 1 mile, one way.

After years of planning and fundraising, a non-motorized connector bridge/trail from Winona to The Flyway Trail in Wisconsin opened in June 2020. This new connection links Winona to this scenic biking route via Aghaming Park, where one can see 1,950 acres of some of the best preserved floodplain forest in the country, and catch amazing views of Latsch Island’s unique boathouse community.

Phase two of the paved, pedestrian path the Flyway Trail was completed in August 2025. Starting in Winona, the Flyway Trail runs across the Highway 43 bridge and historic John A. Latsch Wagon Bridge, through Latsch Island and Aghaming Park, and links to the Great River State Trail. From there, trail users can continue through a network of Wisconsin trails reaching as far as Reedsburg.

The project has been spearheaded by a community driven start up based in Alma, WI, The Flyway Trail, which aims to build a world class trail in the region. According to their website, their mission is, “to increase community connectivity, support economic development and recreational tourism, and enhance the quality of life for future generations.”

The project has cost $4.5 million so far, funded through federal grants, other public support, and over $1 million in private fundraising. While a planned railroad crossing near Marshland has not yet been approved by Canadian National Railway, rerouted funding created a paved highway path instead.

With phases 1 and 2 complete, the Flyway Trail organization plans future extensions, including a long-term goal of connecting north to Alma, Wisconsin.

*Please note: Riding a bike, walking or using a wheelchair on shared use, paved trails can be a safe, convenient and fun way to get around, but only if everyone follows the laws. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep the state laws in mind. Trail etiquette is essential for safety and courtesy on shared pathways, requiring users to stay to the right, yield to slower traffic and pedestrians, announce passing intentions clearly and be aware of their surroundings.