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City Cast Madison

Whether you’re new to winter in Madison, or you’ve been putting snow chains on your tires all your life, everyone could benefit from a reminder on how to safely navigate Madison’s icy roads. With the 

 expected this week, now is the time to make sure you can travel safely on the road!

Before bad weather really sets in, give your car a 

 — check your battery health, lights, brakes, wipers, windshield fluid, and tire pressure.

Invest in the right tires — either snow / all-season wheels, or get some snow chains for your tires.

: Put a quarter into the tread of your tire and look for George Washington’s head. If you can see any part of the top of his head, you don’t have enough tread, and you should replace those tires.

Keep your gas tank at least half full to decrease the risk of getting stranded in bad weather.

 in your car in the event you are stranded.

Know your route — look at a map before you start driving to avoid having the extra distraction of your GPS or getting lost.

Learn the latest about your route’s conditions and incidents before heading by by visiting 

Maintain steady speeds and keep extra space between yourself and other cars — no matter what type of vehicle you have.

Be extra careful on bridges and underpasses, which tend to be the slickest.

Remove all snow and ice from your windows, hood, and roof before you drive.

If you begin to skid, let off the accelerator and brake, then turn your steering wheel in the direction you want to go.

Ilana Nevins contributed to this article.

Whether you’re new to winter in Madison, or you’ve been putting snow chains on your tires all your life, everyone could benefit from a reminder on how to safely navigate Madison’s icy roads.

How to Safely Navigate Madison's Winter Roads

Tips for Winter Driving in Madison

Tips and tricks for living your best Madison life, by locals, for locals.

Madison Life Hacks

Madison is full of great biking opportunities. Whether you want to unwind with a short spin, take a long bike trip with friends, or make it an overnight adventure, here are the best bike trips around Madison.

If you have limited time or are just getting comfortable with riding a bike around the city, here are some great options.

Downtown Loop along State Street and around the Capitol: It’s two miles long and great for people watching.

: This three-mile ride is best paired with a picnic in the middle.

 through the UW Arboretum: A beautiful six-mile trip through some of the city’s flora.

If you’ve got an hour or two, these are the rides we recommend.

: One of the most iconic rides in Madison, featuring gorgeous prairies and lots of wildflowers. It clocks in at around 12 miles.

: Lake Farm Park to Seminole Hwy, through the Arboretum and back to Lake Farm via Wingra and Cap City paths. This one’s around 16 miles.

 connects several trails, making it a great rendezvous for a ride out of the city.

 south to Paoli and back: Make a day out of it with this 17-mile loop. Paoli’s home to the new 

 and back: Pack a tent and stay overnight. This ride is about 46 miles round-trip.

 and back: At 10 miles, this one’s for less riding and more camping.

Ready to hop on the saddle? Listen to our conversation with Madison Bikes board member Grant Foster for 

transportation

Tips for Winter Driving in Madison

Madison's Best Bike Trips

Latest articles

Tips for Winter Driving in Madison

Madison's Best Bike Trips