The 32 mile Elroy–Sparta State Trail was formerly the mainline of the Chicago and North Western Railway. Its conversion from rail to trail represented a new concept in recreational development, and by utilizing the abandoned railbed it became the first trail of its kind in the United States to be designated a National Recreational Trail by the United States Department of Interior. Primarily used for bicycling, hiking and snowmobiling, it passes through scenic areas and links the communities of Elroy, Kendall, Wilton, Norwalk and Sparta. Among its added attractions are three tunnels, the longest measuring 3,833 feet. Train service on the line began in 1873, when steam locomotives hauled grain, livestock and passengers. Rail service ended in 1964, and the Department of Natural Resources established the trail in 1965 before opening it to the public in 1967.