ATV Just About Anywhere in the Country, Only in Wisconsin Will You Find the Unmistakable Combination of Incredible Natural Beauty and the Friendliest People Around

Home , Black River State Forest, Brule River State Forest, Brunet Island State Park, Potawatomi State Park, Rib Mountain State Park

WelcomeWelcome While you could choose to ATV just about anywhere in the country, only in Wisconsin will you find the unmistakable combination of incredible natural beauty and the friendliest people around. We’ve seen tremendous growth in the popularity of this activity in the past ten years among both families and groups of friends visiting our state. People are drawn to Wisconin’s enduring natural beauty, our extensive trail system, and our outdoor tradition. In turn, we pride ourselves on being stewards of the natural resources and ambassadors of the tourism experience. This guide provides you with the information you need to plan your getaway and to enjoy this recreational activity safely. Treasure the adventure of our trails and the camaraderie of the experience. Extending a warm Wisconsin welcome,

Kelli A. Trumble Secretary, Wisconsin Department of Tourism RIDE SAFELY. RIDE RESPONSIBLY.

When used safely and responsibly, all-terrain vehicles are a great source SAFETY TIPS of transportation, fun and family ■ Take an ATV safety course. recreation. They are useful work ■ Stay on the trails and other legal tools and your passport to outdoor riding areas. exploration. ATV ■ riding can access Never consume alcohol or drugs before or during ATV operation. Wisconsin’s endless Consuming alcohol or drugs is a scenic beauty while factor in nearly 40 percent of all building cama- ATV fatalities. raderie among fam- ■ Wear your helmet! Even the most ilies and fellow rid- minor accidents can cause severe ers. Ride safely by controlling your head injuries if you are not wear- speed and wearing a helmet. Ride ing a helmet. responsibly by staying on marked ■ Avoid excessive speeds. Travel at a trails and respecting both private speed appropriate for the terrain, and public property. Staying on des- visibility conditions and your expe- ignated trails is a simple way to pro- rience. tect the environment. Shortcutting ■ Don’t attempt wheelies, jumps or or leaving trails causes erosion and other stunts. These can have disas- damages trailside plants. trous results. ■ ATVs are for off-highway use only. Never operate an ATV on public roads unless the law permits it and you use extreme caution. In gener- al, riding an ATV on a roadway or in a ditch is prohibited, but there are times that it is allowed. See the entire rules booklet (www.dnr.wi.gov/org/es/enforcement/docs/atvregs.pdf) for further guidance, and then check with your local officials for exceptions. ■ ATVs are designed for one operator only. Never carry a passenger unless the machine is specifically manufactured for a second person. ■ Protective clothing is a necessity. Always wear an approved ATV helmet, eye protection, boots, gloves, long pants and a long sleeved shirt CARMEN JOPP or jacket.

2 Visit travelwisconsin.com ANN HARDEN

course. These ATV operators must carry ATV Safety Training their safety certification card and they Riding an all-terrain vehicle is excit- must display it to law enforcement offi- ing and exhilarating. But in the hands of cers when requested. Anyone 11 years an untrained operator, an ATV can also of age or older is eligible to take the be very dangerous. ATV’s handle differ- class and receive a safety education com- ently than other vehicles. Accidents hap- pletion certificate. The certificate does pen fast, even during routine exercises not become valid until the child reaches like turning, riding over obstacles, or rid- 12 years of age. ing on hills. The purpose of the Wisconsin ATV ATV exhausts and noise Safety Training Program is to promote Unusually loud ATVs disturb nearby responsible, safe and ethical ATV use. By landowners, wildlife, and other recre- participating in the program, students ators. That, in turn, hurts Wisconsin’s obtain a better understanding of their opportunity for more trails. Don’t modify obligations to the resources, the your exhaust so that it’s louder than orig- landowner, other ATV users and them- inally manufactured. ATV noise must be selves. no louder than 96 decibels when tested If you want to enroll in an ATV safe- in accordance with standards. Remember ty course, contact your nearest DNR serv- – loud pipes hurt trails. ice center or visit www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/es/enforce- ATV registration ment/safety/upcoming.html. If you live in Wisconsin or your ATV is kept in Wisconsin for more than 15 Who is required to be consecutive days, you must register your certified? ATV with the Wisconsin Department of All ATVers who ride on public riding Natural Resources to ride on Wisconsin areas (trails, frozen waters, routes, per- ATV trails. mitted county and/or forest lands, etc.) The All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) who are at least age 12 and who were Registration Application must be validat- born on or after January 1, 1988 must ed prior to operation of the machine. have completed a safety certification continued...

Wisconsin ATV Guide 3 RIDE SAFELY. RIDE RESPONSIBLY. A NOTE ABOUT ATTRACTIONS continued... This guide includes information about many attractions near ATV You can submit your application in per- trails and intensive use areas. Most son at one of several ATV Validation of these attractions do not allow Stations. For a list of these stations visit ATVing on or to their properties. dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/cs/registrations/snow Attraction information is included atvstations.htm. only as a suggestion of things to see and do out-of-the-saddle. The quickest and most convenient way to renew or register your ATV is to visit dnr.wi.gov, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. By using this method of register- MAP LEGEND ing your ATV you can print a validation receipt that will allow you to operate ATV Trail your ATV until you receive the registra- ATV Road Route tion certificate and decals. Dual Use ATV/ Paper ATV application forms are still Snowmobile Route available and can submitted to DNR at Dual Use ATV/ the address below. If you use this option Snowmobile Road Route to register your machine, you must wait Other ATV Trail until you receive your registration certifi- 94 Interstate Highway cate and decals prior to operating. 2 US Highway ATV Processing Center 35 State Highway PO Box 78701 E County Highway Milwaukee, WI 53278-0701 Town Road Customer Service staff are available County Line to answer your questions by calling (toll free) 1-888-WDNRINFo (1-888-936- Railroad 7463), 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. seven Section Closed to ATVs days a week. Trailhead with Parking Lot All Services All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Gas trail pass Water Wisconsin law requires those who Toilet use Wisconsin ATV trails to display either Showers Wisconsin registration, or an ATV trail Food Service pass if your ATV is in state for less than 15 consecutive days. Funds from this Lodging program are used to enhance all Public Campground Wisconsin ATV recreation. The trail pass Shelter may be purchased online at our Online Picnic Area Licensing Center (www.wildlifelicense.com/wi), or over the Playground counter at any license sales location. To ATV Wash find a location, visit Electric Hookups www.dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/cs/licenseagent Hiking Trail Only s/. You can also purchase them by phone at 1-877/945-4236. Fire Tower For more ATV information, visit the City Wisconsin Department of Natural Town Resources website at www.dnr.wi.gov. Point of Interest State Park or Forest

4 Visit travelwisconsin.com 2 1 3 4 5 6 19 7 15 8 14 18 9 17 10 13 16 12 20 Trail 11

Index 21

______Page 1 Wild Rivers State Trail______6-7 2 Valhalla Area Trails ______8-9 3 Tri-County Recreational Corridor ______10-11 4 Iron County ATV Trails ______12-13 5 Dead Horse Run ATV Trail ______14-15 6 Tuscobia State Trail ______16-17 7 Flambeau ATV Trail System ______18-19 8 Cattail State Trail ______20-21 9 Chippewa County ATV Trails ______22-23 10 Clark County ATV Trails ______24-25 11 Jackson County/Black River State Forest Trails ______26-27 12 Dyracuse Mound Recreational Area ______28-29 13 Marathon County/Burma Road Trail ______30-31 14 Harrison Hills ATV Trail ______32-33 15 Parrish Highlands Trail______34-35 16 Embarrass River ATV Park ______36-37 17 Dusty Trails ______38-39 18 Marinette County ATV Trails ______40-41 19 Florence County ATV Trails ______42-43 20 Riverview ATV Park ______44-45 21 Cheese Country Trail ______46-47 Wisconsin ATV Events ______48-49 ATV Rentals ______50

Wisconsin ATV Guide 5 Wild Rivers State Trail Barron, Washburn & Douglas Counties 1 ne of the longest trail systems in the JUST THE FACTS state, the Wild Rivers State Trail trav- DISTANCE: 104 miles one way from erses three northwestern Wisconsin Rice Lake to just south of Superior. counties. The 104-mile trail is a for- DIFFICULTY: Easy O mer Omaha and Soo Line TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): Parking Railroad grade that par- and trail access is available in Rice Lake, allels US Hwy 53 from Sarona, Spooner, Trego, Minong, and Superior. Access only in Gordon. Rice Lake to Superior. Located in the Red SEASON: Open year-round. Cedar Valley of OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: Tuscobia State Trail, Gandy Dancer State Wisconsin, Rice Lake is a Trail, Tri-County Corridor, Saunders hotbed of outdoor recre- Grade, and Stony Brook Trail. ation. The southern trailhead NOTE: Just north of Rice Lake, the Wild is located near Hwy 48 and Cty SS. Three Rivers State Trail connects with the miles north of town, the Wild Rivers State Tuscobia State Trail. ATVs are prohibited Trail connects with the Tuscobia State Trail. on the Tuscobia from Rice Lake to near While it might be tempting to take the Angus and Birchwood. Tuscobia east, ATV use is prohibited from FEES: None. Rice Lake to near Birchwood (about 10 AREA ATTRACTIONS: The Tommy G. miles). Thompson State Fish Hatchery, Railroad Memories Museum, and Wisconsin The Wild Rivers Trail continues north Great Northern Excursion Train in following Cty SS as it crosses to the west Spooner; Vista Fleet Cruises, Fairlawn side of Highway 53 through the town of Mansion, S.S. Meteor Museum, and Haugen and into Washburn County. It’s an Bong WWII Heritage Center in Superior; easy ride into Sarona, where you can make and the Brule River State Forest in Brule. a quick pit stop for gas. North of Sarona LEGEND: For a complete listing of all the trail meanders along Hwy 53 for a few icons, see page 4. miles before veering northwest into deep FOR MORE INFORMATION: forest sections. Riders will enjoy the wide Wild Rivers State Trail sweeping turns and spectacular views. If 715/635-4490 www.dnr.state.wi.us/ you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of Minong ATV Club Trail Conditions deer and other wildlife. 715/466-5000 In Spooner you’ll find plenty of food www.minongtrails.com and lodging choices. Off the 4-wheeler, Rice Lake Tourism you can tour the Tommy G. Thompson 715/234-8888 State Fish Hatchery (715/635-4147) or the www.ricelaketourism.com Railroad Memories Museum (715/635- Spooner Chamber of Commerce 3325, www.spoonerwi.com). If you’re a 715/635-2168 real railroad buff, you might like a train http://chamber.spooneronline.com ride aboard the Wisconsin Great Northern Washburn County Tourism Railroad Excursion Train (715/635-3200, 800/367-3306 or 715/635-9696 www.washburncounty.org www.spoonertainride.com). From Spooner, the trail cuts back to Superior-Douglas County Chamber of Commerce the northeast around the northern edge of 800/942-5313 or 715/394-7716 Spooner Lake. An easy ride brings you to www.visitsuperior.com Trego and the Namekagon River, which is Barron County Tourism part of the St. Croix National Scenic 715/537-6200 Riverway. Be sure to stop on the bridge www.co.barron.wi.us/tourism.htm north of town to take in the vista of the rolling, winding waterway. Heading north, the trail winds past Lampson skirting the eastern shore of

6 Visit travelwisconsin.com Duluth 53

35 535 Lake Superior Leaving Minong, the Wild Rivers Trail

2 Superior continues north past Wascott and Gordon

53 to Solon Springs in Douglas County. Solon 2 Springs marks the north/south watershed 105 35 Z 13 between the Lake Superior basin and the Amnicon Falls State Park Mississippi River basin. From here, the St. C 2 C Croix River tumbles southwest 200 miles to A E meet the Mississippi at Prescott. In the 53 Tri-County Trail B marshes just north of town, the Bois Brule

B River begins its run in the opposite direction – north to Lake Superior through the L L 48,000 acres of the Brule River State Forest Bennett (715/372-5678, www.wiparks.net). In Solon Springs, riders can take a small spur trail that heads east to a gas A Solon station and restaurants. The trail termi- Springs nates at the St. Croix Inn with access to M Upper St. Croix Lake. Just to the north, Y Lucius County Park overlooks the lake with Gordon 24 campsites nestled among large white G and red pines. Wascott T DOUGLAS CO BURNETT CO

Minong 77

77 TOURISM PHOTO FILE

53 Stony Brook Trail

N Lampson a m F e k a g o r n e iv R 63 E Trego

A Spooner Spooner Lake 70 70

63 253 Shell B Sunset on the Bois Brule River. Lake Sarona D Three miles north of Solon Springs the trail leaves Hwy 53 behind, angling north- WASHBURN CO west to a trailhead just south of Superior. BARRON CO Haugen This final twenty miles is among the most scenic of the entire trail passing stream and B SS forest without the hum of highway traffic.

48 There’s plenty to see in Superior. 48 Rice Lake Cruise the harbor aboard Vista Fleet 25 Cruises (218/722-6218, www.vistafleet.com). Tour Fairlawn Mansion or the SS Meteor Museum 0639 12 Miles (715/394-5712, www.superiorpublicmuse- ums.org). See a real P-38 Lightning at the Richard I. Bong WWII Heritage Center Silver Lake on the way to Minong. Just (888/816-9944, www.bongheritagecen- south of town the Wild Rivers meets the ter.org). Or, watch waterfalls at Pattison Stony Brook Trail, a new 22-mile trail State Park (715/399-3111, developed by the Minong ATV and www.wiparks.net). Snowmobile Club. The trail connects the Wild Rivers State Trail with Sawyer County trails to the east.

Wisconsin ATV Guide 7 Valhalla Area Trails Bayfield County 2 utting out into the largest fresh JUST THE FACTS water lake in the world, Bayfield DISTANCE: 78 miles. County is a jewel of natural resources DIFFICULTY: Easy to moderate. and wonderful scenery. TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): J For the The ATV trails here flow Valhalla Trail, the trailhead is west of through county and Washburn off Cty C and FR 505. To the national forest lands. south, access is available from FR 435 near Wannebo Road and off Cherryville Notably, many trails Road near Barrens Road. To the west, glide through the north- access is available in Iron River and off ern part of the East Long Lake Road. The Battleaxe Chequamegon-Nicolet trailhead is near the Battle Axe Road National Forest. and Flag Road intersection. The Valhalla Area Trails are SEASON: Many trails close in the a popular destination for ATV enthusiasts. spring until the ground dries. Call for trail updates or visit www.travelbayfield- The Valhalla Trail, also known as the county.com. Valhalla Recreation Area, is positioned 10 OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: miles west of the town of Washburn, Tri-County Corridor, Buckskin Trail, and which sits right on the big lake. With plen- Bear Paw Trail. ty of lodging, services and attractions, FEES: Daily parking fees are required at Washburn is accessible via ATV. It also can some U.S. Forest trailheads. The pass offer a relaxing diversion from a day on the can be purchased on site. Annual pass- trails. If roughing it is more your style, you es also are available. can find campsites at Memorial Park and CAUTION: The speed limit on all Thompson’s West End Park (715/373-6160; Bayfield County trails is 40 mph. The county also passed a sound ordinance. www.cityofwashburn.org) on the shores of Noise from an ATV cannot exceed 96 Lake Superior. Several sites overlook decibels. Some routes are available Chequamegon Bay with picturesque views. through cities and towns. Be sure to Both parks are operated by the city and follow the posted ATV route. offer a number of amenities. LEGEND: For a complete listing of all Many trails in this region are num- icons, see page 4. bered for easy reference. The 15.3-mile AREA ATTRACTIONS: White Winter Valhalla Trail system is an easy loop ride Winery. that takes you on Trails 35/31 on the north FOR MORE INFORMATION: and west sides to Trails 13/33 on the south U.S. Forest Service – Washburn and east sides. Here you’ll experience plen- Ranger District 715/373-2667 ty of rolling terrain and wooded sections. Bayfield Chamber of Commerce You’ll also come across other trails 800/447-4094 or 715/779-3335 along this route. The 2.3-mile Washburn www.bayfield.org Trail connects Valhalla through an area Ashland & Bayfield County Tourism called Sun Bowl – an 80-acre glacial pit – 800/472-6338 or 715/373-6125 as it exits the forest and onto county ATV www.travelbayfieldcounty.com routes. Washburn Chamber of Commerce Within the Valhalla Trail system, the 800/253-4495 or 715/373-5017 Ridge Top Trail is a 1.1-mile stretch that’s a www.washburnchamber.com little more difficult due to one of the Iron River Chamber of Commerce longest, steepest climbs in the area. But 800/345-0716 or 715/372-8558 www.visitironriver.com don’t let that stop you. It climbs the south side of Mount Valhalla where you’re rewarded with scenic views. The trail loops back to the Valhalla Trail. Nearby, the Valhalla Trail Lodge (715/292-7546; www.valhallatraillodge.com) on the edge

8 Visit travelwisconsin.com Lake Superior 13 Port Wing 13 Wally Polk Memorial C Trail

l rai e T Old we C na To Le Was Baldy hburn Trail A Valhalla Trail

Battle Axe Trail

B Moquah iver Trail Spur Trail Iron R A Long Lake Iron To Superior River G 2 Moquah nd H To Ashla Tri-County Trail

2 63 021 3 4 5 Miles E Ino

of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National 2006 or 715/372-5656; www.whitewin- Forest offers 10 cabins for a cozy rest and ter.com) makes a special “mead” wine direct access to the trail. made of honey, water and yeast. From the Valhalla Trail, riders can take After an evening in Iron River, you can the Lenawee Trail (Trail 40) west 12 miles connect to the Tri-County Corridor Trail to the Old Baldy Trail. The easy ride travers- that heads east. Just outside of town is the es mostly sandy soils and follows a railroad Iron River Trail (Trail 31/21). At 18.5 miles grade part of the way. Along the route, long, it is the longest trail in the area. It you’ll see many mature pine plantation also is heavily traveled because it connects stands. Iron River with the Valhalla Trail. It rolls On at the Old Baldy, the 4.2-mile con- through pine forest and barren areas. nector is an easy ride through a pine for- Sensitive environmental habitats here make est. It also accesses the must-see Mt. Baldy it important to stay on the trail. Overlook. On a clear day, you can see for South of Iron River you can follow the miles over Lake Superior. Some even say 11.5-mile long Buckskin Trail (Trail 31) to you can see Minnesota off in the distance. the 13-mile long Bear Paw Trail that leads Heading south on the Battle Axe Trail to Drummond. While they’re both easy brings you to Iron River where food, fuel rides, you’ll encounter more rocky terrain and lodging are available. For those who and some areas are prone to puddling. want to be close to nature, there are several With Lake Superior as a backdrop and area campgrounds (www.visitironriver.com). the diverse terrain, ATV enthusiasts will If you are staying in Iron River and the find plenty of fun in Bayfield County. With ATVs are put away for the day, a trip to so much to see and do, many return again one of Wisconsin’s wineries might be inter- and again. esting. The White Winter Winery (800/697-

Wisconsin ATV Guide 9 Tri-County Recreational Corridor 3 Douglas, Bayfield & Ashland Counties s the name suggests, the Tri-County JUST THE FACTS Recreational Corridor is a rail trail DISTANCE: 62 miles across three counties in northern DIFFICULTY: Easy Wisconsin connecting TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): A Trail the port cities of Superior access and parking is available in and Ashland. Superior, Iron River, Brule, and Ashland. In the late 1800s, Access only in Poplar and Maple. settlers mined the thick SEASON: Open year round pine and hardwood OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: forests along the south- Saunders Grade, Gandy Dancer State Trail, Valhalla Area Trails, Dead Horse ern shore of Lake Superior. Run. The railroad took that timber CAUTION: Trail is open to other out- to market along with area door enthusiasts. Please use caution farm products. The rail line was, indeed, and good trail etiquette to ensure the the lifeblood of frontier commerce. enjoyment and safety of all trail users. Today, that same rail bed is the FEES: None. lifeblood of area recreation. In 1987, local AREA ATTRACTIONS: Amnicon Falls government purchased the right-of-way State Park, Brule River State Forest, and converted it to a recreational trail for South Shore Brewery, Northern Great all to enjoy. Since then, the 62-mile trail, Lakes Visitors Center. which follows Hwy. 2, has been a popular LEGEND: For a complete listing of all route for ATV enthusiasts, snowmobilers icons, see page 4. and mountain bikers. FOR MORE INFORMATION: On the trail’s western end, Superior Ashland Area Chamber of offers a variety of historic and scenic Commerce 800/284-9484 or 715/682-2500 attractions, (see Wild Rivers State Trail, www.visitashland.com pages 6-7). Heading east, the trail is lined Bayfield County Tourism & with the lush green trees that make up Recreation northern Wisconsin. With its hard packed 800/472-6338 or 715/373-6125 surface, the Corridor is an easy ride that www.travelbayfieldcounty.com allows you to sit back and take in all the Douglas County Forestry Department 715/378-2219 www.douglascountywi.org 53 Superior

2 Lake Superior

35 53 r 2 e iv R Z 13

Amnicon Falls State Park F P M 53 2 Amnicon Poplar F P

0 2 4 6 Miles J&LNAMILLER LINDA & RJ

Amnicon Falls State Park.

10 Visit travelwisconsin.com beauty the area has to offer. Along the the “River of Presidents,” having been trail, you might see a variety of wildlife fished by Ulysses Grant, Grover Cleveland, including turkeys, deer, bear and even tim- Calvin Coolidge, Herbert Hoover and ber wolves. Dwight Eisenhower. Ten miles east of Superior, the trail Just to the east, you cross into travels just south of Amnicon Falls State Bayfield County and head into Iron River. Park (715/398-3000, www.wiparks.net). The former logging town welcomes ATV While not accessible from the trail on an riders with a full slate of services including ATV, the park is a sanctuary well worth a lodging, dining, and ATV rental and repair. short hike. It holds many clues to the histo- From here you can connect to the expan- ry of northern Wisconsin. In addition, the sive Valhalla Trail system (see pages 8-9). Amnicon River cascades over the spectacu- On the last leg of the Tri-County, from lar rock formations at the park’s upper and Iron River to Ashland, you’ll traverse 25 lower falls. The park has 36 campsites. miles of varied terrain. The first half is Fees apply for parking and camping. heavily wooded, especially through a four- Heading east, the tree-lined trail mile lobe of the Chequamegon-Nicolet opens up just west of Poplar, where you National Forest. As the trail clears the for- can catch a glimpse of the area’s several est, it doglegs north, then east again farms. Food and fuel are available in through more open farmland to Ashland. Poplar, the hometown of Major Richard In Ashland, you’ll find all the ameni- Bong, the most decorated pilot of World ties and plenty to do. A series of seven War II. Bong downed 40 enemy planes in giant murals painted on downtown build- the Pacific and earned the Congressional ings depicts the city’s history. The South Medal of Honor. The Richard I. Bong WWII Shore Brewery on Main Street offers tours Heritage Center in Superior includes a year-round (715/682-9199, replica of his P-38 fighter, named for his www.southshorebrewery.com). Just west wife “Marge.” of town the Northern Great Lakes Visitor After rolling through farmland, the Center (715/685-9983, www.northern- trail dives into the forest west of Maple, a greatlakescenter.org) offers interpretive and pleasant crossroads hamlet. From here, the historic exhibits, visitor information and trip trail parallels the northern edge of Hwy. 2 planning. all the way to Brule, where you’re sur- Best of all, from the trailhead on rounded by the Brule River State Forest Sanborn Avenue it’s a short walk to (715/372-5678, www.wiparks.net). This Chequamegon Bay on Lake Superior. The 40,000-acre forest protects the Boise Brule views of the big lake are a great way to River, famous for its whitewater canoeing start or end a day’s ride. and trout fishing. The Brule is known as

Washburn

I r o n

B BAYFIELD CO BAYFIELD o DOUGLAS CO i s

A Ri ve 13 B r r u l e

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iver Northern

a Tra Great Lakes Maple Visitor Center Ashland 2 Iron llhal

Va Moquah River G

H To 137 2 13

Brule A H 2 27 Ino 63 BAYFIELD CO BAYFIELD

Lake G ASHLAND CO Nebagamon

Wisconsin ATV Guide 11 Iron County ATV Trails Iron County 4 n the edge of Lake Superior and JUST THE FACTS bordering Michigan’s Upper DISTANCE: 200 miles Peninsula is an ATV paradise called DIFFICULTY: Easy to difficult Iron County. A combination of well- TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): O You can thought-out trails, friendly park for the day at six spots: Oneida Sales towns, active ATV clubs in Hurley, the Frontier Bar & Campground and an involved local in Saxon, Sidekick’s Bar & Restaurant in Iron Belt, Squeak’s Bar & Restaurant in government has pro- Pence, the Yukon Inn in Oma, and on duced a sophisticated Railroad Street in Mercer. network of summer-only SEASON: Each year, the trails close for a and year-round trails, mak- few weeks during the spring thaw. Call ing it one of the top go-to ahead or check the Web for closures. places in the state. The trail OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: system is so well developed that you can Dead Horse Run, Flambeau ATV Trails visit nearly every major town in the county NOTE: Many towns allow ATVs on the on an ATV. roads. Be sure to follow the 25mph speed The area has the welcome mat out all limit. Snowmobile trails posted with ATV signs are open to ATVs in the winter. year long, allowing ATVers to enjoy the However, when the temperature rises trails in their favorite season. A perfect above 30 degrees, ATVs are prohibited. time to visit is during the Memorial Day CAUTION: Because of the popularity of Weekend ATV Rally. This popular event fea- these trails, always use caution and tures competitions, activities and, of watch for oncoming traffic. course, lots of riding. At the Rally’s 20th FEES: None. anniversary in 2005, a Guinness record was AREA ATTRACTIONS: Iron County set for the largest ATV parade ever. A total Historical Museum, Mercer Historical of 687 ATVs participated. (Since then, the Museum, Plummer Mine Headframe, record has been broken, but Iron County area waterfalls. aims to get it back.) Another popular event LEGEND: For a complete listing of all icons, see page 4. is the annual Pumpkin Run ATV Rally which FOR MORE INFORMATION: takes place in October. In addition to some great and colorful fall riding, there’s food, Iron County Development Zone 715/561-2922 live music, dancing and other fun activities. www.ironcountywi.com Even when the Hurley-Mercer area Hurley Area Chamber of Commerce isn’t hosting a rally, there’s plenty to see 866/340-4334 and do on ATVs. The county’s 200 miles of www.hurleywi.com well-marked trails thread between towns, Mercer Area Chamber of Commerce making the entire area well connected. 715/476-2389 Adventurous types might be tempted to www.mercercc.com take in as much as possible in a single day. ANN HARDEN With the wide network of trails, though, it’s best to make a weekend (or more) of it. Trail 17 forms the major north-south artery between Hurley and Mercer; a quick and easy 24-mile roll. While the trail is a thoroughfare of activity, the real fun starts on the county’s many spur trails. Along many of those trails, remnants of Iron County’s logging and mining eras are still visible. Near Montreal, the Plummer Mine Headframe is a reminder of the county’s heyday as a regional center of iron mining. The 80-foot headframe is the last one

12 Visit travelwisconsin.com Lake Superior Saxon Harbor

MICHIGAN IRON CO ASHLAND CO

Montreal

2 Saxon

Gurney 2 169 122 Hurley Montreal Gile Iron Belt Pence Gile Flowage Plummer Mine R Headframe iv e Upson r 77 MICHIGAN Spring Camp Falls

G Oma G IRON CO VILAS CO

H Ashland County 51 Trails

J IRON CO

ASHLAND CO Mercer

FF Manitowish 51

021 3 4 5 Miles 47 182 Turtle-Flambeau Flowage

182

standing in the state and is listed on the the harbor. With several miles of sandy National Register of Historic Places. beach, you can take a break from riding in Iron County boats fifteen waterfalls. exchange for a hike on the beach while South of 3,300-acre Gile Flowage, ATV the clear, fresh water laps at your feet. Trail 13 passes Spring Camp Falls on the Iron County’s off-trail attractions are Montreal River. You’ll also find waterfalls many. Hurley’s 19th century courthouse near Upson, Saxon Harbor, Montreal and has been turned into the Iron County Hurley. Historical Museum with two floors of min- While rated difficult, Trail 6 west of ing, farming and logging exhibits, Hurley and Montreal is a popular destina- (715/561-2244, www.hurleywi.com). To tion. The narrow, winding trail can make the south, Mercer is the gateway to the for some anxious moments – especially if pristine, 19,000-acre Turtle-Flambeau it’s wet – but those who venture on it are Flowage perfect for fishing, boating, rewarded with spectacular vistas of the canoeing and wildlife observation. History Lake Superior landscape. buffs can also check out the Mercer Another popular destination is Saxon Historical Museum housed in its 1905 rail- Harbor on the shore of the lake. Trails 2 way depot (715/476-9191). and 3 wind through the dense forest to In Iron County, the ride is fine.

Wisconsin ATV Guide 13 Dead Horse Run ATV Trail Sawyer & Ashland Counties 5 ne of the more challenging trail sys- JUST THE FACTS tems in Wisconsin is the Dead Horse DISTANCE: 56 miles Run Trail. Once lightly traveled by DIFFICULTY: Moderate to difficult ATV enthusiasts, TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): O A small more and more are dis- trailhead is located on the east shore of covering the system. It’s Dead Horse Slough about two miles no wonder; the trail’s east of Clam Lake on Highway 77. Another trailhead is just north of diverse terrain and Loretta. From the intersection of Hwy. Northwood’s scenery 70 and County Hwy. GG, drive north make it an experience you’ll 2.6 miles on GG. Turn left on Fire Road enjoy. 621 to the entrance to an old CCC The peculiar name comes camp, which is the trailhead. from an incident that occurred in the early SEASON: May 1 to March 14 1900s. A team of horses broke through OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: Tri- the ice on a slough just east of Clam Lake County Corridor, Tuscobia State Trail, Flambeau River State Forest Trail, and were never recovered. The slough Flambeau ATV Trail System became known as Dead Horse Slough and NOTE: Be on the lookout for fallen the name later transferred to the trail. trees and branches and large rocks on The Dead Horse intersects the the trail. Tuscobia State Trail just west of Park Falls. CAUTION: Because of the remoteness The trails of the Flambeau River State of the trail and its length, be sure to Forest are just to the south, while the carry extra fuel, food and water. Flambeau ATV Trail is just east of Park Falls. FEES: None. This trio of trails centered on Park Falls can AREA ATTRACTIONS: An elk herd in make for great long-distance riding. the Clam Lake area. The trail traverses a remote area. LEGEND: For a complete listing of all You’ll encounter lots of rocks, trees, wet- icons, see page 4. lands, creeks and rivers. Due to the heavy FOR MORE INFORMATION: forest canopy, the trail can be wet with Chequamegon-Nicolet National standing water. Fuel is available only in Forest Clam Lake at the northwestern edge of the 715/762-2461 www.fs.fed.us/r9/cnnf/ system or in Park Falls or Winter. Be pre- pared for the unexpected; carry tools and Great Divide Ranger District 715/264-2511 other necessities. Speaking of the unexpected – on the CARMEN JOPP trail you might hear or see elk. In 1995, Wisconsin re-introduced elk in this part of the forest. Today, the Clam Lake herd is estimated at 135 animals. Entering from the Tuscobia State Trail, the Dead Horse cuts north through the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Eight miles in you’ll hit a spur that leads southwest to the parking area at Camp Loretta. Continuing north, you’ll cross the Chippewa River and follow it to an intersection with Grass Road, where you’re just a mile south of the Stock Farm Bridge Campground on the shore of the river. As the trail winds farther north, it becomes rockier, adding to the challenge. Twelve miles north of Stock Farm Bridge

14 Visit travelwisconsin.com Campground, the trail hits the southern accommodate anything from tents to RVs. end of a 23-mile loop that crowns the trail. Day Lake is full of smaller muskies, so if You can run the eastern side of the loop to you’ve brought your fishing gear, throw a a spur that continues an extra seven miles bucktail off the pier and wait for a strike. to Cayuga. Or, you can ride the western Clam Lake is one of the few places on side past Dead Horse Slough and north the Dead Horse Run to refuel your quad along Dingdong Creek. Just north of Forest and grab a bite to eat before doubling Road 182 a spur trail runs west 6 miles back on this round-trip ride. into Clam Lake. Just north of town the National Forest Cayuga

Service operates a campground on the 13 shores of Day Lake. Accessible to ATVs, the campground offers 52 campsites that can

Day Lake West Twin Lake East Creek Twin Lake g Clam n do Lake Dead g Horse in Slough D 77 Upper 77 Clam Lake To Glidden

G River

wa ppe Chi Bear Lake SAWYER CO SAWYER ASHLAND CO

Tuscobia State Trail

e r

o 021 3 Miles T To Flambeau ATV Trail System (Pages 18-19)

Wisconsin ATV Guide 15 16 6 www.winterwi.com 800/762-7179 or715/266-2204 Winter Area ChamberofCommerce www.pricecountywi.net 800/269-4505 Price CountyTourism www.parkfalls.com 800/762-2709 Commerce Park FallsArea Chamberof www.tuscobiatrail.com 800/762-7179 Friends oftheTuscobia Trail FOR MOREINFORMATION: icons, seepage4. LEGEND: FEES: ment andsafetyofalltrailusers. good trailetiquettetoensure theenjoy- door enthusiasts.Pleaseusecautionand CAUTION: wear ahelmet. passengers undertheageof18must on withinthecitylimits.Driversand routes. Headlightsandtaillightsmustbe permitted; signswillindicatedesignated Traveling onposted roads inParkFallsis use from RiceLaketoBirchwood. NOTE: Trail, andDeadHorseTrail. Trail, thePineLineTrail, Georgetown System, FlambeauRiverStateForest RiversStateTrail,Wild FlambeauTrail OTHER TRAILSINTHISREGION: SEASON: Lake andinParkFalls. TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): DIFFICULTY: Park FallstoBirchwood. DISTANCE: JUST THEFACTS Visit Visit travelwisconsin.com None. The Tuscobia isclosedtoATV For acompletelistingofall April 15toNovember15. Trail isopentootherout- State Trail Tuscobia 62 milesonewayfrom Easy.

In Rice JOHN EIDSMOE JOHN T riders cantravelthrough townonposted ramp. ThecityofParkFallsisATV friendly; County Park,whichhasanATV loading located attheParkFalls-Tuscobia Trailhead lodging, foodandfuelare readily available. sixtownsalongtheroute,tures. With terrific sceneryandplentyofATV adven- Birchwood easttoParkFallsoffers some ATVs. Despitethat,thetrailfrom Rice LaketoBirchwood, are closedto 12milesofthetrail,fromwesternmost miles, only62milesare opentoATVs. The Trail began. 1968, developmentoftheTuscobia State the linewasabandonedindisrepair. In Falls. Buttimeschanged.Bythemid-50s burgeoning FlambeauPaperMillinPark best waytotransportpulpwoodthe in 1914,itquicklybecamethe Falls. Whenitwascompleted between RiceLakeandPark years tobuildtheline industries. Ittook15 logging andfarming backbone oftheregion’s it wasthetransportation Line andforseventyyears Birchwood 48 In ParkFalls,alargeparkingarea is While thefulllengthoftrailis74 Wisconsin. ItwasoncetheOmaha Wisconsin. spans fourcountiesinnorthern multi-use, rails-trailsconversionthat he Tuscobia StateTrail isa74-mile,

Red Cedar River Barron, Sawyer&PriceCounties

WASHBURN CO SAWYER CO F Lake Chetac F Lemington Yarnell 27 C 48 Exeland Couderay Radisson n 40 H

Chi ppewa Riv er Ojibwa tion downtowntocatchaglimpseofthe want tocheckouttheoriginalrailroad sta- (www.winterwi.com).Winter You might Food, fuelandlodgingare availablein known foritsmuskyandtrout fishing. way toWinter. Stoptocheckouttheriver, southwest, crossing theBrunetRiveronits still seetheoldrailroad ties.Thetrailcuts ent –beneaththesodoftrailyoucan railroad bedonwhichyourideiseverpres- food andfuelare available.Here, theold tle townsare DraperandLoretta where River StateForest. ning south40milesintotheFlambeau Sawyer County, you’llhitaspurtrailrun- ies oftheFlambeauRiver. Crossing into cross creeks andstreams thatare tributar- thick forest sectionstoopenexpansesthat Trail, you’llencountervaryingterrainfrom est roads andtrailspostedforATV use. S), youcanpickupamapshowingthefor- Forest. Atthedistrictoffice, (11704thAve the nearbyChequamegon-NicoletNational ramp. through October, andanATV loading hookups, flushtoiletsandshowersApril River, theparkoffers year-round electric Located ontheshores oftheFlambeau the cityhasdirect accesstothetrail. County Park&Campground justwestof roads. Ifyoulikecamping,SmithLake Back ontheTuscobia, thenexttwolit- Heading westontheTuscobia State Park Fallsisadistrictheadquartersfor 27 Winter W

Brun et 70 W

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er To DeadHorse (Pages 14-15) Loretta ATV Trail GG M Draper western terminusatRiceLake. western the last12milesofTuscobia toits Ice AgeNationalandStateScenicTrail fill headed north.)From here, hikersonthe the RedCedarRivertoconnectwithtrails can cross thebridgetowestsideof on theTuscobia StateTrail. (Note:riders billion yearsago. a that towered Wisconsin abovenorthern remnants ofanancientmountainrange This 17-milesectioncrosses theBlueHills, lush, green forest onitswaytoBirchwood. breaks southwestdivingdeepintomilesof lels Hwy27/70toCouderaywhere it a wildriver. From Radisson,thetrailparal- pretty stretch offering somegreat viewsof Chippewa RivertoRadisson–aparticularly Sawyer County. 1870s, itistheoldeststandingbuildingin house. Onceahotelthatwasbuiltinthe tory buffs mighttakenoteofalargewhite point. InOjibwa,justsouthofthetrail,his- entire 62miles,thismarksthehalfway hookups. ForthosetravelingtheTuscobia’s wooded landwithcampsitesandelectric (715/266-5923) offers 350acres ofheavily before reaching town,OjibwaPark meet theChippewaRiveratOjibwa.Just Wisconsin. golden ageoftherailwayinnorthern 0 Birchwood istheendofATV line From Ojibwa,thetrailfollows From Winter, thetrailrunswestto 70 E SAWYER CO 51 PRICE CO Wisconsin ATVWisconsin Guide

F la

m Butternut b e

0 a u Lake E 15 Miles

River 13 Falls Park 17 13 182 Flambeau ATV Trail System Price County 7 olling through the Chequamegon- JUST THE FACTS Nicolet National Forest in north cen- DISTANCE: 70 miles. tral Wisconsin, the Flambeau ATV DIFFICULTY: Moderate. Trail System offers some of the most TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): R In addi- scenic riding in the state. tion to trailheads in Park Falls and These trails are a favorite Fifield, there are five parking areas on with ATV enthusiasts. the trail system: the Wintergreen parking area on Hwy 70 near FR 136 (park- Throughout the system ing pass required); Sailor Lake you’ll ride tree-lined cor- Campground (parking pass required); at ridors through rolling ter- Blockhouse Lake; at Round Lake (park- rain. You’ll cruise past some ing pass required); and on Hwy 182 of the 98 lakes, 45 streams near FR 149. and three major rivers in the SEASON: May 1 to March 14. county. And with three other interconnect- OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: ed trails and trail systems in the area – the Dead Horse Run, Tuscobia State Trail, Georgetown ATV Trail, Flambeau River Flambeau River State Forest trail system, State Forest Trail, Pine Line Rail Trail. the Tuscobia State Trail and the Dead FEES: For some parking areas, a park- Horse Run trail – the riding options are ing pass is required. A daily parking nearly endless. pass ($5) can be purchased at the park- In addition to the natural splendor ing areas, or an annual sticker can be that waits around every bend, there are purchased at the C-NNF office in Park several must-see attractions unique to this Falls or at certain area businesses. corner of Price County. CAUTION: The Camp Nine Springs Starting from the Blockhouse Lake trail is suggested for experienced riders only. Use caution when traveling this trailhead/parking area, you’ll cruise rolling and rocky trail. through the thick forest on Trail 111. Just AREA ATTRACTIONS: Round Lake Logging Dam, Smith Rapids Covered Bridge, Wisconsin Concrete Park, Timm’s Hill County Park. LEGEND: For a complete listing of all Blockhouse icons, see page 4. Lake r

v FOR MORE INFORMATION: i R Price County Tourism Department 13 800/269-4505 or 715/339-4505 182 www.pricecountywi.net Park Park Falls Area Chamber of Falls Commerce E 800/762-2709 or 715/762-2703 www.parkfalls.com

CARMEN JOPP au be am Fl

70 Fifield

18 Visit travelwisconsin.com beyond the parking area, you can head and park your ATV at the Smith Rapids south toward Sugar Bush Road and the Horse Trail. It’s then a short walk to the southern parts of the trail, or continue east bridge. Constructed in 1991, it’s one of toward Camp Nine Springs. The Nine just three covered bridges in the state. The Springs Trail is a one-mile loop just south bridge uses an attractive diamond-shaped of Trail 111 reserved for experienced riders. truss pattern called the “town lattice.” The This rolling and rocky trail follows an esker, bridge spans the south branch of the which is a ridge formed by the last great Flambeau River. glacier that scoured Wisconsin 10,000 From Smith Rapids, Trail 101 parallels years ago. Hwy 70 all the way to the Wintergreen From Nine Springs, Trail 111 runs east parking area. Or, you can backtrack to Trail across Springstead Creek at its intersection 111 to access Trail 121, the southernmost with Trail 107 just west of Round Lake. trail in the system. Follow 121 to the Sailor Follow Trail 107 to a parking area near the Lake Campground & Picnic Area, which Round Lake Logging Dam. You’ll have to offers direct ATV access, a picnic shelter park your quad and walk about 1/8 mile to and 20 campsites. Many ATVers use Sailor view this restored 1800’s logging dam. The Lake as their base camp. site includes an interpretive center and From Sailor Lake, head north via Trails walking trails. Originally constructed in 102, 101, 103 and 104 to Trail 111 and 1878, then completely restored in 1995, the parking area east of Blockhouse Lake. the Round Lake Dam is typical of the dams Or continue west on Trail 111 back to Park built by loggers to sluice their logs down- Falls. stream each spring. Two other Price County attractions are Back on your quad you can stay on of interest. In Phillips, 18 miles south of Trail 107 to visit resorts in the area on Park Falls on Hwy 13, marvel at the fanci- Round or Pike Lakes. These are popular ful folk art creations at Wisconsin Concrete vacation lakes with many dining and lodg- Park (800/269-4505, www.friendsoffred- ing options. You can double back on Trail smith.org). Twenty miles further south, 107, or exit the area west on Trail 101. At near Ogema, you can climb the observa- the intersection of Trail 101 and 111, tion tower atop Timm’s Hill, the highest you’re near the Smith Rapids Covered spot in Wisconsin at 1,951.5 feet above Bridge. A short ride on Trail 101 brings you sea level. to Trail 112. Go north on 112 for one mile

182

Round Lake

Smith Rapids Coverd Bridge

Pike Lake

70 70

Flambeau Winter ATV Trail

0 1 2 3 Miles

Wisconsin ATV Guide 19 Cattail State Trail POLK & BARRON COUNTIES 8 ust an hour’s drive from the Twin JUST THE FACTS Cities, the Cattail State Trail is one of DISTANCE: Nearly 18 miles one-way the most popular ATV destinations in from Amery to Almena. northwestern Wisconsin. DIFFICULTY: Easy. J Developed on a former railroad grade, TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): The trail- the 18-mile Cattail State head in Amery is near Hwy 46 and the Trail meanders through Apple River. Trail access also is available in Turtle Lake at Railway Park, and in Almena some of Wisconsin’s at the Barron County Picnic Area. most picturesque SEASON: Open year round. forests and farmlands. OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: The trail passes through Gandy Dancer State Trail, Wild Rivers State Turtle Lake as it connects Trail, Tuscobia State Trail. Amery in Polk County with NOTE: The trail crosses several roads, Almena in Barron County. including major highways. Use caution The Cattail is a prime example of a when crossing roadways. multi-use trail that’s enjoyed by many out- CAUTION: Trail is open to other outdoor door recreational enthusiasts. Open year enthusiasts. Please use caution and good round for ATVing, other trail uses include trail etiquette to ensure the enjoyment and safety of all trail users. hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, horseback riding and snowmobiling. Off- FEES: None. road motorcycles are allowed on the trail AREA ATTRACTIONS: St. Croix Casino year-round in Polk County only. As a and Hotel, and the Lake Country Dairy in Turtle Lake. multi-use trail, the Cattail may bring a LEGEND: For a complete listing of all number of different users to the trail at the icons, see page 4. same time. Consequently, it’s important to FOR MORE INFORMATION: use good trail etiquette to ensure the Barron County Forestry Department enjoyment and safety of all trail users. 715/537-6295 ATV riders can access the trail in Amery, www.co.barron.wi.us Turtle Lake or Almena. The ride is relatively Polk County Parks & Recreation short and can be easily completed in a single Department day. Lodging is available in each town. 715/485-9272 Whether it’s a one-day trip or a full week- www.co.polk.wi.us end, the easy round trip ride allows plenty of time to take in as much as possible. FRITZ ALBERT

k o o r B Apple River Beave r

J F F Amery

20 Visit travelwisconsin.com In Amery, the trailhead is situated near choose from and a 153-room hotel. Hwy 46 and the ever-popular Apple River. Turtle Lake is also home to Lake Heading east, you ride through some rem- Country Dairy (www.lumberjackcheese.com, nant forest before encountering farmland 715/986-2893), a 60,000 square-foot and prairie. Just east of Amery, the trail fol- cheese factory that can turn 2 million lows Beaver Brook northwest toward the pounds of milk into 80,000 pounds of hamlet of Joel, about six miles from Amery. cheese in a day. Visitors can see the East of Joel, the trail dives into a thick cheese-making process and buy a variety wooded section and cruises past rich wet- of cheeses in their retail outlet. lands with an abundance of wildlife. After sampling these diversions in As you cross Hwy 63 and the Turtle Lake, saddle up and continue head- Polk/Barron County line, the village of ing east on the Cattail Trail. Just out of Turtle Lake welcomes you with fuel, food, town, the tree-lined trail skirts Mud Lake, lodging and gambling action. For food and then bridges the creek between Upper and fuel, head into town using Western Lower Turtle Lakes before crossing Hwy 8 Boulevard. Roads are posted for ATV use, on the final leg of the trail to the Barron but it’s always best to call ahead to make County Picnic Area in Almena. You’ll find sure where ATVs are permitted, (Turtle fuel and food and a chance to rest before Lake Police Department, 715/986-2942). the return trip on the Cattail Trail. The trail cuts right through the heart For those with a continual need for of Turtle Lake with access at Railway Park speed, motorsports abound in nearby just a block off the trail. The park includes towns. The Kopellah Speedway a picnic shelter and a loading area on the (www.kopellahspeedway.net; 715/566- north side of the trail. For those who plan 0646) in nearby St. Croix Falls hosts auto- to stay in Turtle Lake, Country Lodge mobile racing on its one-quarter mile, (www.tlcountrylodge.com; 866/986-2070) semi-banked clay oval race track every provides access to the trail. It is located on Friday night from early April through early the south side of U.S. Highway 8 directly September. Or, head north to Rice Lake for across from the St. Croix Casino & Hotel Saturday night racing action at the Rice (www.stcroixcasino.com; 800/782-9987). Lake Speedway (www.rlspeedway.com; The casino offers slots, blackjack, roulette, 715/236-2002) where racing begins in craps and poker. It has three restaurants to April and ends in September.

P POLK CO

BARRON CO Upper Turtle T Lake

8 Turtle Almena Lake 8 P Lower Turtle Lake

T D 63

JJ D 012 3 Miles

Wisconsin ATV Guide 21 Chippewa County ATV Trails Chippewa County 9 he hills, valleys and challenging ter- JUST THE FACTS rain of northern Chippewa County DISTANCE: 15 miles. were created by the action of gla- DIFFICULTY: Easy to moderate. ciers many thousands of years ago. TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): T The east- This glacial topography is what makes this ern trailhead is located about 4.5 miles area ideal for ATV riding. west of Holcombe on Cty M. The west- The Chippewa County ern trailhead is located about 8 miles northeast of Bloomer on 153rd St. ATV Trail rambles through a scattered SEASON: May 1 to November 15. string of the county’s OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: Eau Claire County ATV Trails, Clark 33,000 acres of county County ATV Trails forestland. Even though the NOTE: Stay on the trail; ATV routes are trail here is short – 15 miles - well marked. There are no services on you’ll be challenged with steep the trail, but some businesses can be hills and valleys. Winding past small lakes accessed along roads marked as ATV and beaver ponds, the trail is an open door routes. to spectacular vistas and abundant wild CAUTION: The trail crosses the Ice Age life. Trail, which is off limits to ATVs. Watch for large rocks in the middle of the trail Beginning at the western trailhead, and standing water after it rains. you’ll ride down a gravel road for about FEES: None. five miles on a swing north of Burnt Wagon Lake. The road winds east, then AREA ATTRACTIONS: Brunet Island State Park, Ice Age National Trail, north toward Bass Lakes where you can Chippewa Moraine Interpretive Center. stop and stretch your legs. A picnic table LEGEND: For a complete listing of all and newly built restrooms, funded by ATV icons, see page 4. registration money, are available. After a FOR MORE INFORMATION: brief respite, hop back on your quad and Chippewa County Tourism continue north. The road turns into an 866/723-0331 or 715/726-7880 ATV-only trail. The compacted surface pro- www.chippewacounty.com vides ample traction in all kinds of condi- Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of tions. Commerce A mile north of Bass Lakes, the trail 866/723-0331 or 715/723-0331 crosses the Ice Age National Scenic Trail www.chippewachamber.org (800/227-0046 or 608/663-8278,

ERIC SKOGMAN www.iceagetrail.org). The Ice Age Trail is unique to Wisconsin, tracing the southernmost advance of the last Wisconsin glacier some 12,000 years ago. The 1,000-mile Ice Age Trail starts at Potawatomi State Park in Sturgeon Bay, runs south through the Northern and Southern Units of the Kettle Moraine State Forests, swings west through Madison, then northwest through Wisconsin Dells and Eau Claire to it termi- nus at Interstate Park near St. Croix Falls. It is a backpacker’s dream; but ATVs are not allowed. After crossing the Ice Age Trail, you’ll swing northeast around Dorothy Lake. The trail winds up and down hills and passes several wetlands. Heading north toward Cty M, it gets a little rockier with loose

22 Visit travelwisconsin.com road cuts through private land leading to county roads posted for ATV use. As always, follow the signs and ride only on roads marked as ATV routes. Staying on the Chippewa ATV Trail, you’ll pass through a narrow gate. In fact, there are several narrow gates on the trail. Most of them are located at road intersec- tions. The trail dives deep into the forest passing more wetlands on the way to Cty E. From here it’s a short swing past the Birch Creek Trail to the eastern trailhead on Cty M. Area attractions include the Chippewa Moraine Ice Age State Recreation Area just west of the trail (715/967-2800, www.wiparks.net). This 3,300-acre recreation area doesn’t offer any camping, but it does have a terrific nature center that

J&LNAMILLER LINDA & RJ interprets the glacial legacy of the area and of the Ice Age Trail. If camping is a part of your outdoor fun, Brunet Island State Park (715/239-6888, www.wiparks.net) is only Brunet Island State Park. five miles southeast of the trail in Cornell with 1,200 acres of fun and 69 campsites. rocks on uphill climbs or descents, and on Even nearer, Pine Point Park is only about some corners. two miles east of the trail’s eastern trail- About a mile north of Cty M, the trail head. This Chippewa County park occupies curves east as it crosses Willow Creek. a 3,900-acre peninsula jutting into the Here the trail becomes a gravel road. After Holcombe Flowage with 48 campsites and a half-mile or so, you’ll come to an inter- an absolutely stunning location. section. The Chippewa Trail heads to the right. If you continue straight, the gravel

il lo w

M Creek M To Holcombe Dorothy Lake E

Ice Age National Scenic Trail 021 3 Miles

Bass Lakes

Rock Lake Burnt Wagon Lake 153rd St. 157th St.

226th Ave.

Wisconsin ATV Guide 23 Clark County ATV Trails Clark County 10 eventeen percent of Clark County is JUST THE FACTS county forest – 132,852 acres of fun DISTANCE: 130 miles. just begging to be explored from the DIFFICULTY: Easy to moderate. seat of an ATV. And you can do it TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): S There because 130 miles of ATV trails are seven parking lots for day riders: access it all from Lake the Oak Ridge lot at the north end of Arbutus in the south to the trail at Cty M and Rock Creek Rd; lots at Rock Dam, Wild Rock and Mead Lake in the north. Wildcat County Parks; the Hwy 10 lot All you’ll need is stamina at Hwy 10 and Bachelor’s Ave; and the and a couple of days. two Hatfield Pines lots at the south This is a place end of the trail at Bush Rd and designed with ATVs in mind. Bachelor’s Ave just west of Lake Arbutus. Here, you can ride all day and never hit the same trail twice. SEASON: May 1 to March 15. The system is actually a series of seven FEES: None. loop trails linked by on-road segments. OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: Trail loops are named, marked for mileage Chippewa County ATV trails, Jackson County ATV Trails. and highlighted on the county’s very serv- NOTE: Follow the instructions posted iceable ATV map. The Oak Ridge and Rock at the entrances to the four intensive Dam Loops are the shortest at 5.3 miles; use areas in the trail system. the Neillsville Loop is the longest at 34 CAUTION: The trails close for a period miles. of time in the fall during hunting sea- In addition to the loops and on-road son. Check the Clark County Web site connectors, planners included four inten- for updates or call. sive use areas in the trail system. These AREA ATTRACTIONS: The open areas allow you to get off-trail and Highground, 1897 Jail Museum, and play a bit in diverse terrain. Because they The Wisconsin Pavilion in Neillsville. localize off-trail activity, these intensive use LEGEND: For a complete listing of all icons, see page 4. areas minimize environmental damage in FOR MORE INFORMATION: the rest of the forest. Clark County puts an exclamation Clark County Forestry and Parks Department point on their trail system with seven park- 715/743-5140 ing lots and five county parks and camp- www.co.clark.wi.us grounds. Centrally located within the trail system, Wild Rock Park is fast becoming a CARMEN JOPP key destination for many ATV enthusiasts. It offers 35 campsites, electric and water, and a parking lot with loading ramp. Snyder County Park, also centrally located, offers 32 campsites on lovely Snyder Lake. On the south end of the system, Russell Memorial Park on Lake Arbutus offers 230 campsites, RV hookups, flush toilets and showers, and a convenience store. On the north end, Rock Dam Park offers 150 campsites with flush toilets and showers, a laundromat, convenience store, and full RV hookups. On the private side, Norm & Ann’s Campground/Outdoor Adventures is located just west of Snyder Park on Hwy 10. Along with modern camping facilities,

24 Visit travelwisconsin.com Norm & Ann’s is known for its ATV rental www.thehighground.org). Tributes honor and tour guide operations (www.nanda- American veterans of all wars. From the camp.com). They offer two- or four-hour plaza you can see 500,000 acres of spec- guided tours. The two-hour trip takes you tacular woodland scenery and glacial southwest to Wildcat Mound Park where moraine. You can also tour the city’s 1897 you’ll leave your ATV behind and climb Jail Museum, an imposing four-story Wildcat Mound. At the top, you’re reward- fortress of a building (715-743-6444, ed with a spectacular 360-degree vista. www.clark-cty-wi.org/JailMuseum.htm). You can see all the way to Black River Falls Tours include the sheriff’s residence as well to the south and Neillsville to the east. as the bleak cellblocks. The Wisconsin The view is even more stunning in autumn. Pavilion originally served as the state’s Out-of-the-saddle, you’ll want to exhibit hall at the 1964-65 New York check out nearby attractions. Located three World’s Fair (715/743-3333, miles west of Neillsville on Hwy 10, The www.clark-city-wi.org/Pavilion.htm). Highground is a 140-acre Veterans Dismantled and reassembled in Neillsville, Memorial Park (715/743-4224, the pavilion now houses four radio stations, a cheese and gift shop and a private collection of New York World’s Fair memo- rabilia.

d R When it comes to scenery, mileage

st re and ATV friendliness, the picturesque trails Fo Butler of the Clark County Forest are tough to Rock Dam GG County Park beat. To the south, they connect to another 100 miles of great trails in Jackson

M County – twice the fun!

o Rd F

C I F

r d or o s F H r’ hle Ko Wild Rock County Park

P Chili Rd

I d

B Kueltz’sForest Rd

Fremont Rd

10 12 Resewood Ave 10 G d Snyder 12 R t Granton Rd s Lake re 27 o County F Park 73 Fairview Rd 2

# Deertrail Rd am 10

D Rd B Neillsville eaver Highground B Veterans

Bluff Rd Bluff Memorial Elger Rd Bruce Mound Ave

B River Rd Humbird B Wildcat County 95 Park CLARK CO. Poertner Rd Bruce Mound Ave JACKSON CO. t Rd F Opel r Rouse Rd e iv 27 R Levis/Trow Mound

Kovard Rd Kovard Recreation Area 95 Merrillan k J ac 95 Bl

Lake 27 K Arbutus Hatfield E To Jackson County K and Black River State Forest Trails 02134 5 Miles

Wisconsin ATV Guide 25 Jackson County Forest/ Black River State Forest Jackson County 11 ust a two-hour drive from the Twin JUST THE FACTS Cities and Madison and three hours DISTANCE: 100 miles. from Milwaukee, the ATV trails of DIFFICULTY: Easy to moderate. the Jackson County TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): J There Forest and the Black River are eight access areas with parking: State Forest are some of East 7th St near Castle Mound State the most popular in the Park; off Hwy 12 two miles west of Millston; junction Cty O and North Midwest. Not only are Settlement Rd, one mile east of they proximal to Millston; Ott Trail parking lot on Interstate 94, the trail system Airport Rd, east of Black River Falls; here is extensive, the scenery Hwy 54 ten miles east of Black River is lovely, and campgrounds are Falls, just east of Wildcat-Spangler Rd; West Clay School Rd near East Arbutus everywhere. Campground, southeast of Hatfield; The rolling terrain, wide trails and East Arbutus Campground, north of towering trees make you feel like you’re West Clay School Rd; and Crawford miles from civilization. Eight access points Hills County Park, 20 miles east of give you plenty of trailhead choices. Four Black River Falls on Hwy 54. trailheads are just off I-94, making them SEASON: Open May 15-Oct 15, and popular with day-trippers. But no matter Dec 15-Mar 15. where you start, the scenic beauty of the FEES: None. trails that roll through Jackson County and OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: the Black River State Forest will dazzle you. Connects to the Clark County ATV trails. The 120,000-acre Jackson County Forest nearly surrounds the 67,000-acre NOTE: Trails are marked with blue locator posts with red numbers. The Black River State Forest. The area is on the top number is the trail segment; the edge of Glacial Lake Wisconsin, an enor- bottom number is the mile marker. In mous lake that formed 12,000 years ago an emergency, dial 9-1-1 and give the when the last glacier melted. The lake dispatcher the post number, then fol- drained suddenly and catastrophically carv- low their instructions. ing the rock formations of the Wisconsin CAUTION: It is highly recommended to carry extra fuel with you. River, altering the course of the Mississippi River, and creating the area’s buttes and AREA ATTRACTIONS: Sand Creek Brewing, and Majestic Pines Bingo & sandstone hills. Casino in Black River Falls. The 100-mile trail system in Jackson LEGEND: For a complete listing of all County dodges in and out of the hard- icons, see page 4. woods and pines allowing glimpses of the FOR MORE INFORMATION: open landscape. Throughout the trail sys- Black River Area Chamber of tem, you’ll encounter sandy and rocky ter- Commerce rain that provides plenty of fun. Just to the 800/404-4008 west is the picturesque Black River. www.wisconsinatvcentral.com Beginning its journey in central Wisconsin, Jackson County Forestry and Parks it carves its way to the mighty Mississippi. 715/284-8475 Anglers fish the river for walleye, bass, and www.co.jackson.wi.us the elusive musky. From Black River Falls, trails run east into both forests. To the north, Lake Arbutus is a popular destination as it connects to another 135 miles of ATV and off- road motorcycle trails in Clark County. Its two trailheads and parking areas can be packed on busy weekends. In addition, Lake Arbutus is home to three campsites:

26 Visit travelwisconsin.com Due south of Lake Arbutus about eight miles is the Wazee Lake County Campground. Wazee Lake is a former iron mine. At 350 feet, it is the deepest lake in Wisconsin, popular with scuba divers for its clarity. If you choose to set up camp here, you might catch a glimpse of lots of wildlife, including deer, turkey, grouse and timber wolves. A fee or park sticker is required to stay in the campground. Jackson County trails are well marked and many signs point the way to area businesses that are ATV friendly. You can spend several fun days touring and staying in the Black River Falls area. Off your quad, you’ll want to visit the TOURISM PHOTO FILE Sand Creek Brewing Company in Black River Falls (715/284-7553, www.sandcreek- brewing.com). They brew a dozen micro- beers in the historic 1856 Oderbolz Black River State Forest Trails. Brewery. Enjoy free tours on Fridays (3pm). Their tasting room and gift shop are open at Russell County Park in Clark County, at Monday-Friday. Players can enjoy blackjack, East Arbutus County Park in Jackson bingo, craps, poker and slots at the County, and at the East Fork State Forest Majestic Pines Hotel, Bingo & Casino Campground. Take your pick. (800/657-4621, www.mpcwin.com).

To Clark County J Trails Lake K Arbutus Hatfield

K E 12

F r e iv R 54

94 Black River Falls Bauer Rd. Lake Wazee C

a Rd. Brockway Bl

94 27 12

O Millston 12 02134 5 Miles 94

Wisconsin ATV Guide 27 Dyracuse Mound Recreational Area Adams County 12 n 1979, the Rapid Angels JUST THE FACTS Motorcycle Club wanted to develop DISTANCE: 20 miles. some land just south of Rome in DIFFICULTY: Moderate. central Wisconsin solely for off-road TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): I The riding. The club owned twen- recreation area is located 13 miles ty acres in the area, but south of Wisconsin Rapids. From Hwy. wanted to add more to 13 turn east on Archer Drive. produce a larger , more SEASON: Early April through Early varied riding area. October. The concept FEES: $10 daily pass; $100 single season pass; $150 single-family pass. hinged on securing funds OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: from the Wisconsin DNR’s Bentley Hills ATV Trails, Jackson Motorcycle Recreation County/Black River State Forest, Juneau Program (MRP) to acquire land County. and build the park. Back in the late NOTE: Helmets, eye protection and 1960s, the MRP was legislated to pro- protective footwear are required. vide financial assistance to local gov- Before riding in the park, stop at the ernments for the acquisition, operation park office to complete the required forms and pay the fees. and maintenance of public off-highway motorcycle riding areas. An additional CAUTION: Stay within designated riding areas; violators can be banned $2 fee for motorcycle registrations gen- from the park. erated funds for the program. AREA ATTRACTIONS: Roche-A-Cri The club pitched the concept to State Park, NewPage paper mill tours, the Township of Rome. Officials liked and Rainbow Casino. the idea and after several meetings, LEGEND: For a complete listing of all approved it. With that, Rome became icons, see page 4. the first town in Wisconsin to develop FOR MORE INFORMATION: a motorcycle recreational area with Town of Rome 715/325-8013 www.romewi.com

Dyracuse Mound Recreational Area To State Hwy 13 715/325-8014 www.my411site.net/dyracuse ANN HARDEN

Dyracuse Mound

0500 1000 Feet

28 Visit travelwisconsin.com MRP funding. In 1982, the Dyracuse able at the Rome Municipal Building or Mound Recreational Area officially opened. Pritzl’s Trading Post. Since then thousands of riders, on motor- If by day’s end you haven’t had cycles and ATVs, have enjoyed everything enough time in the saddle, the Wood the area has to offers. County ATV Area, with about ten miles of Today, the 240-acre park is a dream looped trail, is located about twenty min- for off-road enthusiasts who want to take utes northwest of Dyracuse Mound, just a break from long distance trail riding. The four miles west of Port Edwards near the park is named for its most prominent ter- intersection of Hwy 54 and Cty G. rain feature. Atop the mound, an observa- For accommodations, you’re only thir- tion tower provides an awesome panora- teen miles south of Wisconsin Rapids ma of the area. The park has two where you’ll find plenty of hotels and motocross tracks, a 10-mile enduro trail, restaurants. If you’d rather camp, Deer Trail two ATV tracks, a track for children, a mud Campground (715/886-3871) is just six bog area, a shelter, picnic tables, a play- miles to the north; just over the ground and restrooms with hot and cold Adams/Wood County line on Cty Z. They running water. You can spend a whole day offer 165 total sites, all with water and or more at the park, testing your skills and electricity. Ten miles south of Dyracuse on riding over the varying terrain. The park Hwy 13, Roche-A-Cri State Park (608/339- draws all types of riders, from beginners to 6881, www.wiparks.net) offers 41 family experts. campsites. To this day, the park is funded by the Wisconsin Rapids is home to one of State of Wisconsin and operated jointly by the largest papermaking plants in the Town of Rome and the Rapid Angels Wisconsin. The NewPage mill offers tours Motorcycle Club. Several annual competi- on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays tions are sponsored at Dyracuse, including at 10am (715/422-3789 for reservations). motocross, hill climb events, and a hare- They’ve got a paper machine longer than a scramble. city block. On Friday nights in summer, you Many roads are open to ATV use in can catch some car racing action at the the Town of Rome. They are marked with Golden Sands Speedway (715/423-4660). ATV route signs or directional arrows. The Rainbow Casino in nearby Nekoosa Riders must stay on the routes. Additional offers blackjack, poker, roulette or slots information, including maps of ATV-desig- (800/782-4560, www.rbcwin.com).

nated routes and park information, is avail- 9th Ct 9th MAP KEY ATV Track Archer Dr ATV/Motocross Enduro Track ATV/Supercross Track Kids Track

A sp e n A ve

Mud Bog Play Area

Wisconsin ATV Guide 29 Burma Forest ATV Trail 3 Marathon County 1 ust four miles west of Mosinee, the JUST THE FACTS Burma Road Forest is a 1,480-acre haven for Central Wisconsin ATV DISTANCE: 11 miles. enthusiasts. DIFFICULTY: Easy to moderate. J Trailhead parking lots on both ends of TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): South the trail system afford Lot – from Mosinee travel west 4 miles quick and easy access. on Hwy 153 to lot on north side of Free camping is offered road. North Lot – from Mosinee travel northwest 4.1 miles on Cty B, then at either trailhead with a west 2.4 miles on Burma Rd to lot on permit from the Park, south side of road. Recreation & Forestry SEASON: The trail is closed in Department. Restrooms at October, November and April. the northern trailhead are a FEES: None. bonus amenity. OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: Signage marks nine trail segments Lincoln County, Clark County and within the 11-mile system. The Burma Jackson County trails. Road Forest is one unit in the county’s NOTE: Trails are numbered with 28,000-acre forest system. The forest is orange and brown ATV signs. managed for timber production, wildlife Restrooms are available near the northern trailhead. ATVs cannot be operated habitat, public hunting (October and on county roads. November), and recreational uses. Filled CAUTION: Some trail sections may be with dense deciduous trees and stands of closed periodically. Also, logging activi- pines, the Burma Road Forest provides sce- ty might be present. nic and enjoyable riding for ATVers of AREA ATTRACTIONS: Rib Mountain every skill level. State Park, Hsu’s Ginseng Enterprises, Because these are essentially logging Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, roads, some of the trails here are more and Marathon County Historical than 10 feet wide. The packed dirt on the Museum in Wausau; Big Eau Pleine County Park and the George W. Mead entire trail system produces a smooth ride SWA near Mosinee. and excellent traction for all ATVs. LEGEND: For a complete listing of all However, even with the packed dirt, there icons, see page 4. are a couple of sections adjacent to the FOR MORE INFORMATION: trail that can hold standing water and mud Wausau/ Marathon County Parks, With only eleven miles of trail, you’ll Recreation & Forestry probably ride every inch of the Burma 715/261-1550 Road Forest more than once. As you do, www.co.marathon.wi.us you may encounter a variety of wildlife

ANN HARDEN including whitetail deer, wild turkeys and ruffed grouse. For safety, the trail is closed during hunting season in October and November. It also is closed from mid-March through the end of April to allow the ground to dry during the spring thaw. The Burma Road Forest stands at the confluence of the Wisconsin River and the Big Eau Pleine River. A dam on the Wisconsin River just below Marathon County created the 6,800-acre Big Eau Pleine Reservoir and 6,700-acre Lake Dubay – arguably the focus of water recreation and fishing in central Wisconsin. The Burma Road Forest is only two miles north

30 Visit travelwisconsin.com of Big Eau Pleine County Park, a 2,050- seng.com). The city’s Leigh Yawkey acre peninsula on the north shore of the Woodson Art Museum (715/845-7010, reservoir. The park offers 106 campsites, a www.lywam.org) exhibits one of the finest swimming beach, boat launch and access collections of bird art in the world. The to the Big Eau Pleine/Lake Dubay water Marathon County Historical Museum on paradise. McIndoe Street (715/842-5750, Just across the reservoir from the park www.marathoncountyhistory.com) is is the George W. Mead State Wildlife Area housed in the beautiful Victorian home of (715/457-6771, www.meadwildlife.org). former lumber baron Cyrus Yawkey. The At 30,000 acres, it’s a bird watcher’s para- model railroad display is terrific. dise boasting a bird list of 248 species. Additionally, Wausau offers many lodging, Good roads go to all parts of the property camping and dining options. and hiking trails are numerous. The new All this and the Burma Road Forest Stanton W. Mead Education & Visitor ATV Trails to boot – what a ride! Center demonstrates state-of-the-art green building technology. Fifteen miles north of Mosinee, the greater Wausau area offers plenty of off-

machine fun. Rib Mountain State Park STEVENS POINT CVB (715/842-2522, www.wiparks.net) offers 30 additional campsite choices as well as spectacular views of the surrounding countryside from one of the state’s highest points. Marathon County is the world leader in the cultivation of ginseng. Most is exported to China. To learn more about this medicinal root, visit Hsu’s Ginseng Enterprises (800/826-1577, www.hsugin- George W. Mead State Wildlife Area.

Burma Rd

107

0..255.75 1 Mile

153

To Mosinee

Wisconsin ATV Guide 31 Harrison Hills ATV Trail Lincoln County 14 ou could say that ATVing in Lincoln JUST THE FACTS County is the tale of two seasons. DISTANCE: 41 miles. While many ATV trails in the state DIFFICULTY: Moderate to difficult. are closed in the winter, many por- TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): Y There are tions of the trail system seven parking/trail access areas. The in Lincoln County are main trailhead is located on Turtle Lake open when the tem- Rd just north of Cty J. Two additional lots are located on Cty B, and another perature dips below on Cinder Rd. You can also park at the freezing and snow Harrison Convenience Store, at Bailey’s blankets the ground. Town & Country Inn, and at the Clover Lincoln County boasts 175 Club (Memorial Day-Labor Day only). miles of winter trails, many SEASON: Open May 1 to December 1. shared with snowmobilers. Also, in winter, ATVs are allowed on the The Harrison Hills ATV Trails are a trails ten days after the snowmobile trails are officially open. Trails close to favorite in any season. Carved by glaciers ATV use on March 31, or when temper- thousands of years ago, northeastern atures are higher than 28 degrees. Lincoln County is sprinkled with clear Check for trail conditions and availabili- lakes, picturesque scenery, rolling hills, and ty. moderate to difficult trails. The Harrison OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: Hills ATV Trails flow through the lush Parrish Highlands Trail in Oneida and Langlade Counties. 100,000-acre Lincoln County Forest. The trail system covers more than 40 miles and NOTE: ATVs are prohibited from using the Ice Age Hiking Trail. Signs will indi- connects to the Parrish Highlands trail in cate whether road access is permitted. Oneida County and the Langlade County Be sure to call ahead to find out which trail system. roads are accessible. Roads that are Six parking areas access Harrison Hills. gated or bermed are off limits. From any, hearty riders with lots of stamina CAUTION: This trail system is remote; can complete the perimeter loop in a day you may want to carry extra fuel. Gas is with minimal rest stops. For an easier ride, available in nearby Harrison and Gleason. Watch for logging equipment. take a multiple day or out-and-back FEES: None. approach. Two parking/access areas are near AREA ATTRACTIONS: Council Grounds State Park, Merrill Historical Harrison, which is about 10 miles east of Museum, and the Tomahawk Area Tomahawk. From Harrison the trail heads Historical Museums. east. One mile in, riders can choose to LEGEND: For a complete listing of all head straight toward the Parrish Highlands icons, see page 4. Trails four miles to the east or turn south FOR MORE INFORMATION: and west deep into the Harrison Hills Trails. Lincoln County Forestry Department Turning south, riders cross Cty B, then 715/536-0327 zig-zag through the forest, cross a bridge www.co.lincoln.wi.us and come to a fork in the trail. Left or Merrill Area Chamber of Commerce right makes little difference; either is a sce- 877/907-2757 or 715/536-9474 nic loop to Jackknife Lake. As the trail con- www.merrillchamber.com tinues south, it crosses Bear Trail Road just Tomahawk Chamber of Commerce west of High Lake. A three-mile ride brings 800/569-2160 or 715/453-5334 www.gototomahawk.com you to Cranefoot Lake Road and to a trail intersection. From here the main trail turns north, while a 3-mile spur takes you south to the Turtle Lake Road parking area. Heading northeast, the trail cuts south of Turtle Lake and past a fire tower placed appropriately on Lookout Mountain.

32 Visit travelwisconsin.com Passing another parking and access area, Recreation Area on Otter Lake (www.dis- the trail crosses Cty B again sliding just coverlincolncounty.com). Council Grounds south of Fox, Bear and Snake Lakes. A few State Park just west of Merrill offers 55 miles north the trail intersects with Parrish campsites in a 500-acre park along the Road. The trail follows the road briefly Wisconsin River (715/536-8773, before dipping back into the deep forest www.wiparks.net). For a look at local his- near the county line. Once at Cinder Road, tory, visit the Merrill Historical Museum you’ll encounter yet another parking lot. (715/536-5652, www.ci.merrill.wi.us) or Here, you can turn east to the Parrish the Tomahawk Area Historical Museums Highlands Trail or left completing the loop (715/453-2056, back to Harrison, about five miles away. www.gototomahawk.com). Plenty of lodging and restaurants are available in Tomahawk and Merrill. There To R h D in are a few camping areas near these trails el an d but none offer direct ATV access so trailer- er ing to the trails is necessary. The closest Pine campsite to the trail is the Otter Lake Lake

To Tomahawk D Harrison To Parrish Trails

Cinder Rd.

P ar ri sh R d . B Otter Lake To

Parrish

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k Lake

a L

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Be Bass ar Tra il Rd. Lake

Bea Seven High Island r Lake T r Lake ail

. Turtle Lake d. il R Tra 17 B r

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Wisconsin ATV Guide 33 Parrish Highlands Langlade County 15 ecause of its diverse terrain and JUST THE FACTS unending scenery, many consider DISTANCE: 55 miles. Parrish Highlands one of the top DIFFICULTY: Moderate to difficult. trail systems in Wisconsin. Fifty-five TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): B The main miles of trail here access a trailhead is located on Cty T three miles portion of the 127,000- west of Hwy 45 at Summit Lake, watch acre Langlade County for signs at the entrance. Trail maps are available at that location. Other trail- Forest. In a word, it is heads with more limited parking are blissful riding. located south of Parrish on Cty H and Throw a leg over northeast of Parrish on Cty Q. your quad and listen to it SEASON: These summer-only ATV trails rumble as you glide through are closed from December 1 to May 1. the forest. This is terrain In winter, ATVs are allowed on state- made to be experienced from a funded snowmobile trails 10 days after the trails are officially opened and when four-wheeler. Throughout the Parrish the temperature is lower than 28 Highlands trail system, rolling hills and tall degrees. ATVs are not allowed in the hardwoods greet you. In the summer, the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. canopy of leaves overhead screens the FEES: None. afternoon sun while framing a picture OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: postcard view of the forest. Around every Harrison Hills ATV Trails, Oneida County turn and over every hill, nature awaits. ATV trails, Augustyn Springs ATV Trail. NOTE: These trails are old logging roads To Harrison open to other outdoor enthusiasts and Hills Trail motor vehicle traffic. Logging activity might be taking place along or near the Cinder Rd. trail. Use caution. Also, there are few places to refuel, so be sure to carry extra with you. Q CAUTION: These ATV trails cross the 17 Ice Age Trail in several places. The Ice Age Trail is off limits to ATVs. The trail is To Harrison identified by yellow paint on trees. Hills Trail AREA ATTRACTIONS: Mole Lake Casino & Lodge in Mole Lake. LEGEND: For a complete listing of all icons, see page 4. Parrish FOR MORE INFORMATION: Langlade Forestry & Recreation Department 715/627-6300 www.co.langlade.wi.us Antigo/Langlade Chamber of Commerce

888/526-4523 H www.antigochamber.com

H 0 1 2 Miles

34 Visit travelwisconsin.com As you ride these trails, you’ll see a the trails. After their monthly club meet- healthy forest ecosystem in which timber ings (the first Saturday of each month, production coexists with recreation and April through November), members hit the wildlife. The trail system here takes advan- trails and often stop at the shelter to grill tage of a relatively dry plateau between and socialize. With members nicknamed lowland marsh and lake country to the Muddy Chick, Mud Man and Dusty Ryd’r, north and south. Even so, the trails tra- you know they take their riding and their verse many streams and ponds that sustain fun seriously. life for scores of small mammal and bird Recently, the Highlanders began to species. As you ride, you can’t help but geocache. For the uninitiated, geocaching feel part of a larger, natural world. is an outdoor treasure-hunting game in Many begin their ride at the trailhead which participants use a GPS receiver or on Cty T just west of Summit Lake. There other navigational techniques to hide and you’ll find plenty of parking, trail maps, seek containers called caches. A typical and an ATV wash station handy for clean- cache is a small waterproof container con- ing your quad after a long day of riding. taining a logbook and “treasure,” usually From here you can go in two directions: toys or trinkets of relative value. Check out north to access the twisting loops on the the club’s Web site (www.parrishhigh- eastern trails, or west down 5 Cent lands.com) for the cache’s GPS coordinates Firelane to the western loops. and see if you can find the hidden treas- At intersection number 12 on the ure. map, head north. A few clicks later you’ll When you’ve ridden all you can on encounter a shelter – more like a small the Parrish Highland trails, you can connect cabin – that many riders make a point to with Lincoln and Oneida County trails to visit. Overlooking a small lake, it’s a great extend the fun. No matter where you ride place for a picnic lunch, complete with in this neck of the woods, the mix of ter- outhouses, a well, benches and grills. You rain and scenery will dazzle you. might even meet members of the Parrish Highlanders ATV Club who are often on

Moccasin Lake Rd. Lilly Mill Firelane Elcho K

5 Cent Firelane B

Ice Age Summit National Lake Scenic Trail T

T 45 To A B n t ig o

Wisconsin ATV Guide 35 Embarrass River ATV Park Shawano County 16 he Embarrass River ATV Park is well JUST THE FACTS known in Wisconsin ATV circles. DISTANCE: 20 miles. Designed in 1998, it was meant to DIFFICULTY: Easy to difficult. be a “model” ATV park – a well- TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): T The ATV planned ATV haven with park is located 1/2-mile east of great trails and camping Tigerton, just north of Cty M. amenities. Since it SEASON: Open year-round 8am to opened, ATV enthusi- dusk; Challenge Track open 10am- asts have flocked here, 5pm. and rightly so. The 504- FEES: $7 per day weekdays, or $25 for Mon-Fri 5-day pass; $10 per day on acre park includes a weekends, or $15 for Sat-Sun 2-day Challenge Area, which is a pass. Camping fees are $15 per night motocross-type track, and for tents and $20 per night for RVs. twenty miles of trails that wind through a For reservations, call 888/947-2288. variety of terrain. OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: While the Challenge Area is a popular Riverview ATV Park, Dusty Trails, Fond part of the park, many head here to ride du Lac OHV Park. the winding trails because they offer plenty NOTE: In the winter, trails aren’t always groomed. One snowmobile trail of fun for all skill levels. The main outer through the park is groomed. All trails loop is wide – so wide that cars could drive are within the park. There are no con- on it. They don’t, of course. The sweeping nectors to other trails. trail rolls through the forest over rocky ter- CAUTION: Riders using the park must rain that covers most of the park. complete all registration forms and sign a waiver. Information can be found in the kiosk near the entrance or in the main building. Riders using the Challenge Area must be 18 or older. AREA ATTRACTIONS: Mohican North Star Bingo & Casino in Bowler. LEGEND: For a complete listing of all icons, see page 4. FOR MORE INFORMATION: 45 J Embarrass River ATV Park 888/947-2288 or 715/535-2169 www.tigerton.govoffice2.com ANN HARDEN

Tigerton

36 Visit travelwisconsin.com Dive deeper into the forest on trails In addition to its Challenge Area and that crisscross inside the outer loop and trails, the park offers 37 campsites for you’ll find some challenging terrain. Some tents and RVs, many along the Embarrass trails get progressively more difficult and River. There’s even a family camping area rockier, so use caution. Virtually every part for larger groups. Electrical hook-ups are of the park is open for exploration. You available and a new shower and laundry can test your rock or hill climbing skills, facility bring all the comforts of home right splash through some water-filled areas, to your campsite. An RV dump station, and get down and dirty in some mud. potable water and firewood are also avail- During the summer, the Marathon able. After a day’s ride, you can rinse off Off-Road ATV Club holds at least three your quad in the wash bay. If you need motocross races at the park. If you’re inter- food or fuel, a trail heads out of the park ested, call Bill Bell at 715/355-6120, ext. south to Hwy 45, then north into Tigerton. 123 or Randy Curtis at 715/675-6330; or The winding Embarrass River cuts log on to www.motobill.com. Regardless through the park near the Challenge Area. of the schedule, you might catch some rac- The river holds a native population of trout ers practicing their skills anytime in the and is popular with canoeists. If you’re park. Because the park’s popularity contin- feeling particularly lucky, Mohican North ues to increase, it’s important to be cau- Star Casino & Bingo (800/775-2274, tious as you ride. www.mohicannorthstar.com) is located in The park is funded by annual grants Bowler, just twelve miles north. They offer from the Wisconsin DNR derived from state slots, blackjack, roulette, craps, poker and ATV registrations. The Village of Tigerton bingo. administers the park. The nominal fees When you want to ride a well- charged riders fund trail maintenance and designed ATV park, come to Tigerton. It’s a improvements. Fees can be paid at the shining example of “If you build it, they kiosk near the entrance or in the main will come.” building, which is often staffed during the busy times of the year. When winter arrives, the park remains open. Many of the trails are groomed and some are shared by snowmobiles. Riders can warm up in the main building that remains open 24/7 November thru May 1st.

0 1000 2000 Feet 45

Wisconsin ATV Guide 37 Dusty Trails Oconto County 17 he Dusty Trails got their name from JUST THE FACTS the sandy soil here – when it’s dry, DISTANCE: 120 miles. it’s dusty. But that doesn’t stop DIFFICULTY: Easy to moderate. Oconto County’s ardent ATV riders. TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): T The main After all, getting dirty is trailhead is located near the Hwy part of the fun. 32/Hwy 64 intersection just east of Besides, it’s not dusty Chute Pond; follow Hwy 64 east about 2 miles, then 1/2-mile south on all the time. In fact, Robenhorst Lane. Trail access also is there are areas on the available in Gillett at Zippel Park, in trail where, after a good Suring near the Village Hall and in rain, you’ll find standing Lakewood and Mountain. water and some added fun. SEASON: May 1 to October 31. The 120-mile trail system FEES: None. offers a mixture of forest scenery and OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: rolling terrain. Geologically, glaciers carved Marinette County, Embarrass River ATV this landscape leaving sand and gravel, Park, and the Parrish Highlands Trails. bedrock outcroppings and huge chunks of NOTE: The Dusty Trails system is well buried ice that melted forming kettle or marked by signs that correspond to a map distributed by the club. Obey the “pothole” lakes scattered throughout the signs and stay on the trail. When riding region. Peshtigo Brook cuts through the on roads marked as ATV routes, the center of the trail system draining a speed limit is 25 mph unless otherwise 10,000-acre wetland called the Brazeau posted. Swamp. Just north of the trailhead, a LEGEND: For a complete listing of all 400,000-acre lobe of the Chequamegon- icons, see page 4. Nicolet National Forest runs all the way to FOR MORE INFORMATION: Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Oconto County Over the years, the Dusty Trails ATV 800/297-4343 or 920/834-6969 Club (www.dustytrailsatvclub.com), has www.ocontocounty.org done extensive work on the trail system Oconto County Land/Forestry including construction of a bridge over 920/834-6827 Peshtigo Brook and a longer bridge over a

JESSICA PRIEM wetland area. Their efforts have helped make their trails some of the most popular in the state. The western edge of the trail system is a 40-mile rail-trail that roughly parallels Hwy 32 from Gillett north to Townsend. The balance of the Dusty Trails lie in central Oconto County, about half on-road and half off-road. In any direction you ride, you’ll find forests of aspen, birch and jack pine. From the main trailhead on Robenhorst Lane you can head north, south or east. On-road ATV routes offer quick access to any part of this large trail system. Or, you can ride forest trails right out of the parking lot. A favorite haunt for many is an area called the “Pipeline.” Just a few miles southeast of the trailhead, you’ll find a nice, open, sandy area. In it are deep holes

38 Visit travelwisconsin.com that, depending on rainfall, may contain If you want to stay in Oconto County, standing water, beckoning you to get wet. you can backtrack about five miles to Old Nearby is an area called the “Sugar Bowl,” 64 Road. From there, you can ride the an open expanse of sugary sand where Brazeau Swamp area to the north, or head many spend time playing out-of-the-saddle. west on Old 64 and Kingston Road all the Heading north, the trail parallels way to the rail-trail. From there, Mountain, Peshtigo Brook weaving in and out of the Lakewood and Townsend are north; Breed, forest – sometimes in the woods, some- Suring and Gillett are south. times on Butler Springs Road. Crossing If you run south to Gillett, be ready Hwy 64, the trail follows the Peshtigo for a warm welcome. In 2007, the mayor Brook Fire Road northeast around White proclaimed the city the “ATV Capital of the Potato Lake where it connects with the World.” Street banners, a Web site Marinette County trail system at 51st (www.atvcapitaloftheworld.com), ATV Road. accessible roadways, ATV events and a “world headquarters” (The Sportsman

32 Lodge) with trail info are all a part of this Townsend promotional package. Perhaps ATVs are so popular here because nearly one-in-four T F residents own one. River Lakewood No matter where you ride in Oconto County, ATVers are welcome. The trail sys- o tem is super, lodging and camping areas Ocont have direct access to the rail trail, and area

h c 32 n businesses roll out the welcome mat. It all a r B makes for an especially fun experience.

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Wisconsin ATV Guide 39 Marinette County ATV Trails Marinette County 18 arinette County is big – at 1,402 JUST THE FACTS square miles it’s the third largest DISTANCE: 200 miles. county in the state. Its county DIFFICULTY: Easy to moderate. forests total 231,000 acres – sec- TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): M Two ond largest in Wisconsin. For ATVers, parking areas serve the north end of there’s plenty of room to the trail system: a new parking area roam. just west of Dunbar via Hwy 8, then south on Airport Road about 1/4-mile Consequently, it’s and watch for the sign; and a parking common for riders to area north of Pembine via Hwy 141 click off 100 miles or and Barlow Lake Road. In the south- more in a day on the west corner of the trail system you can Marinette County trails. park at McClintock Park near Silver Cliff. With 200 miles of trail to explore, passionate riders can SEASON: Open year round. Trails are closed for a short time in the spring to stay in the saddle for a week. dry out. There is much to see and enjoy. FEES: None. Bordered by Michigan’s Upper OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: Peninsula and the Bay of Green Bay to the Florence County ATV Trails, and the east and the sprawling Chequamegon- Dusty Trails. Nicolet National Forest to the west, CAUTION: Because of the length of Marinette County is a hotbed of outdoor the trails and few fuel stops, be sure to recreation – canoeing, hiking, camping, carry extra fuel with you. And, as hunting, cross-country skiing, birding, always, stay on the trails. snowmobiling and, of course, ATVing. The AREA ATTRACTIONS: Waterfalls, majority of the county’s year-round ATV the Marinette County Historical Logging Museum, and Peshtigo Fire trails are located in the northern half of Museum. the county. Trails run from Hilbert Lake in LEGEND: For a complete listing of all the far northwestern corner of the county icons, see page 4. east to the Michigan border and south to FOR MORE INFORMATION: the Peshtigo River State Forest. Marinette County Parks and No matter which loop or trail you ride, Recreation Office you won’t be disappointed. The system 715/732-7530 accesses county forest lands as well as www.therealnorth.com many of the county’s magnificent water- Marinette-Menominee Area falls. You’ll ride rolling hills, twisty trails, Chamber of Commerce sandy flats and forest roads. The riding 800/213-6681 www.marinettechamber.com options are nearly endless. You can choose to cover as much ground as possible, or CARMEN JOPP pick a backcountry loop and explore it at a more leisurely pace. McClintock Park on the west side of the trail system is a good place to start. Located just off Parkway Road (Cty I), this 320-acre county park offers parking, ten campsites, a picnic area and three bridges over the Peshtigo River. The falls are a series of cascades under the bridges that connect smaller islands within the park. Stately pines frame hardwoods that are particularly colorful in autumn. The park has direct access to the trail system, so it’s time to get on and go.

40 Visit travelwisconsin.com The west side trails are a stacked pair be missed. Waterfall tour maps are available of large loops, one to the north and one to locally or visit www.therealnorth.com. the south. The common trail – the one Marinette County operates eleven that splits the two loops – is known locally large parks. Six of them have well-kept, at the “Bunny Run.” These are large loops, beautifully wooded campgrounds totaling so as you play keep an eye on the gas 145 campsites. Four of the campgrounds gauge. There are no fuel stops in the are near the trail system. Plenty of other southern loop; the northern loop offers lodging options are available, particularly in gas stations in both Goodman and Dunbar. the southern half of the county. In this neck of the woods, it’s a good idea Marinette County is known regionally to carry extra fuel with you. for its whitewater canoeing and rafting. North of Hwy 8, a third, smaller loop Swollen by the spring melt, the Peshtigo, tracks north into Florence County as it cir- Pine, Pemebonwon and Pike Rivers become cles the Dunbar State Natural Area back to water-coasters filled with fun and excite- Dunbar. The final leg of your Marinette ment. The historically minded will want to County adventure trails east from Dunbar visit the Marinette County Historical on a series of forest roads through Logging Museum on Stephenson Island Pembine, all the way to the Menominee (715/732-0831) in Marinette. To the south, River and the Michigan border. the Peshtigo Fire Museum (715/582-3244, Even though you’ll spend long days on www.peshtigochamber.com) tells the story the trails here, save some daylight for of the worst forest fire in American history, Marinette County’s waterfalls. The county is the Great Peshtigo Fire of 1871 that killed home to fourteen waterfalls that should not 1,200 people in the city.

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Wisconsin ATV Guide 41 Florence County ATV Trails Florence County 19 estled in the far northeastern corner JUST THE FACTS of the state, Florence County is DISTANCE: 150 miles. about as close to wilderness as DIFFICULTY: Easy to moderate you’ll find in Wisconsin. A quarter TRAILHEAD LOCATION: N At the Wild of the county’s 312,000 acres is held as Rivers Interpretive Center in Florence; part of the vast Chequamegon-Nicolet and in Tipler near the intersection of National Forest that rambles over 1.5 mil- the Nicolet State Trail and Hwy 70. lion acres of northern Wisconsin. Florence SEASON: Open year-round, except for County forests total another 36,500 acres. the spring dry-out. In all, more than 140,000 acres of the OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: The Florence County trail system con- county are public lands. nects to systems in Marinette and Like most of the Great Lakes Basin, Forest Counties, and to trails in Iron the county’s virgin pine forests were clear- County, Michigan. cut in the 1800s. In the 1930s, federal, CAUTION: Carry extra fuel and watch state and county governments took over the fuel gauge; gas stations are few large tracts of abandoned land that were and far between in Florence County. then replanted by the CCC. That reforesta- FEES: None. tion effort is one of the greatest conserva- AREA ATTRACTIONS: The Wild tion stories in the history of the nation. Rivers Interpretive Center and the his- As a result, timber and forest products toric courthouse and jail, both in Florence, an ATV park just south of are today the linchpin Florence, LaSalle Falls and Washburn of the Florence County Falls, and scenic overlooks at Keyes economy. More than Peak, LePages Creek and Pine River. eighty percent of the LEGEND: For a complete listing of all county is forested icons, see page 4. offering recreational 70 FOR MORE INFORMATION: opportunities for Wild Rivers Interpretive Center outdoor lovers of all 888/889-0049 www.florencewisconsin.com kinds: hikers, whitewater kayakers and canoeists, campers, Tipler hunters, birders, 139 snowmobilers and ATVers. The county is home to two of three state-designed wild rivers – the Pine and the Popple. Long There are 265 Lake lakes and 165 To Forest County Trails 139 miles of rivers and streams to enjoy. For the ATVer, Popple Florence County offers plenty of fun on more than 150 miles of trail. For SYM TERHUNE starters, there’s a 17- acre ATV park on the

La Salle Falls.

42 Visit travelwisconsin.com south side of Fisher Lake, just outside of section with Old 69 Road, turn west. In a Florence. Riders of all abilities will find mile, you’ll hit Anna Lake Road. Turn south plenty of challenge on the park’s hills, sand for about a mile to the LePages Creek flats and mud pits. Best of all – it’s all free. Overlook. Located in the Spread Eagle Florence is the best place to start your Barrens SNA, it offers a spectacular view of ATV adventure. A visit to the Wild Rivers this State Natural Area. Interpretive Center (888/889-0049, Return to Old 69, then turn south for www.florencewisconsin.com) is a great three miles on Sand Lake Road. At the way to learn about the county, its accom- intersection with Johnson Creek Road modations, lodges and restaurants. The you’ll get a terrific view of the Pine River as Center also displays wonderful dioramas of it roars through one lobe of the Pine- woodland animals as well as exhibits of Popple State Wild Rivers Area. Heading county history. If you’re looking for west, you’ll cross Cty. N, then turn north overnight parking for your vehicles and past Lake Emily to the east shore of Keyes trailers, you’re welcome to park in the Lake. The high ground to the east is Keyes Center’s lower lot. Peak, a county recreation area with a 250- From here you can hit the trails in vir- foot ski hill and a pretty impressive panora- tually any direction. If you’re looking for a ma. Follow Blome-Helgren Road back to shorter loop (about 25 miles) with some Florence. terrific scenery, consider heading east from If you’re looking for a longer ride, ATV Florence on Montgomery Lake Road. trails literally circumnavigate the county. About four miles out, the road turns south Take the long ride for access to LaSalle to weave along the west shore of the Falls, Washburn Falls and Chipmunk Spread Eagle Chain of Lakes. At the inter- Rapids. There’s another picturesque loop on the west side of the county that ties Tipler and Long Lake. Enjoy it all in this unspoiled land of endless forest. To State of Michigan Trails (trail pass required)

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Wisconsin ATV Guide 43 Riverview ATV Park Kewaunee County 20JUST THE FACTS eveloped in 1996, the 20 miles of trail within Kewaunee County’s DISTANCE: 20 miles. Riverview ATV Park offer the kind of DIFFICULTY: Easy to difficult. challenges that make for great rid- TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): D The park ing. This ATV paradise is located about 3 miles northwest of offers a slice of every- Kewaunee via Cty C to Maple Road (Cty thing: twisting trails L). Watch for the signs. through woods and SEASON: May 1 until the snowmobile open areas, a hill trails open, 6am to dusk. The park is closed during the state’s regular gun climb, rhythm jump deer hunting season; from one week trail, intense use trail, a trail prior to Thanksgiving to the Monday for kids and a large picnic after Thanksgiving. area on the shore of a pond. FEES: $4 donation. A donation box is The creation of the 220-acre ATV-only located at the entrance to the park. park was a joint project between the local OTHER TRAILS IN THIS REGION: Bay Lake ATV Club and Kewaunee County. Embarrass River ATV Park, Dusty Trails, Riverview ATV Park is an excellent example Fond du Lac OHV Park. of ATV registration monies used to finance NOTE: Restroom facilities are available until October 15. Fuel is not available at the construction of ATV facilities. the park. The park’s entrance road (Maple Road CAUTION: Riders must wear helmets or Cty L) divides it into two sectors. Wide, and stay within designated areas. sweeping trails to the north beckon riders Violators will be barred from the park. of all abilities. Near the very north end of AREA ATTRACTIONS: Tugboat the park a hill climb area allows experi- “Ludington,” Kewaunee County enced riders to test the engine strength Historical Museum and Old Jail, C.D. and traction capabilities of their quads. Besadny Anadromous Fish Facility – all in Make it to the top and you can check out Kewaunee; and the von Stiehl Winery in Algoma. the view of the surrounding countryside. LEGEND: For a complete listing of all To the south, you can enjoy twisting icons, see page 4. trails under a canopy of thick trees. This FOR MORE INFORMATION: area offers a variety of conditions; from Kewaunee County Recreation rolling terrain to flat, open areas. The trail Hotline here is just the ticket for those looking for 920/388-7199 adventurous riding. Kewaunee County Promotions & The southern portion of the park also Recreation Department offers several opportunities to test your 920/388-0444 mettle. An oval-shaped trail near the www.kewauneeco.org southern end of the park might not look STEVE HAMILTON like much at first glance, but its rhythm bumps will test your technical riding skill. To the east, an Intense Use Trail dips, dives and turns over a variety of terrain reminis- cent of a carnival thrill ride. A final feature of the southern sector is an oval Kiddie Trail. When you need a rest, you can stretch your legs at the picnic area just north of the parking lot. A pair of farm ponds and tables in the shade makes it a great spot for a family picnic lunch.

44 Visit travelwisconsin.com When you’re done riding for the day, (March and April). A fish ladder and special the area offers lots to see and do. observation window make the watching Kewaunee is a charming lakeshore com- fun. Eleven miles up the lakeshore in munity with more than forty homes and Algoma, you can tour the von Stiehl buildings on the National Register of Winery (800/955-5208, Historic Places. In the harbor, you can tour www.vonstiehl.com). They produce a vari- The Tugboat “Ludington,” a 115-foot ety of fruit-based wines; taste them in their WWII sea-going tug that served in the D- Bohemian tasting salon. Day invasion (920/388-5000, www.city- Both Kewaunee and Algoma are ofkewaunee.org). The city’s long maritime major players in the state’s sportfishing history is displayed at the Kewaunee industry. Charter boats with experienced County Historical Museum and Old Jail captains are ready to take you on the blue- (920/388-7176). Near the ATV park, visit water trout and salmon fishing adventure the C.D. Besadny Anadromous Fish Facility of a lifetime (for Kewaunee call 920-388- on the Kewaunee River (920/388-1025). 4010; for Algoma call 800/498-4888). The station gathers steelhead and salmon With the variety of terrain in their eggs during the spring spawning run ATV park and their busy communities, Kewaunee County is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Oak Rd

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Wisconsin ATV Guide 45 Cheese Country Trail Lafayette, Iowa and Green Counties 21 hey call this the Driftless Area, this JUST THE FACTS southwestern corner of Wisconsin. DISTANCE: 47 miles. While much of the rest of the state DIFFICULTY: Easy. was scraped pretty flat by glaciers, TRAILHEAD LOCATION(S): T In the massive ice bulldozers Monroe at the intersection of 21st never made it this far Street and 4th Avenue West. In Mineral south and west. Here, Point on Darlington Road near its intersection with Commerce Street. the countryside rises and Additional parking is available at camp- falls in an almost rhyth- grounds in both Gratiot and Darlington. mic ripple of ridges and SEASON: The trail is open to ATVs valleys. It is beautiful country. year ‘round except when there is snow Across this landscape the on the trail. rail line wove its way from val- FEES: None for ATVs. However, there is ley to valley, bridging scores of streams a $15 user fee (Cheese Country Trail that flowed down the valley floors. The Sticker) for other trail users. ATV riders are encouraged to support the trail by Cheese Country Trail follows that line. Built purchasing a sticker. on an abandoned railbed, the trail swings NOTE: This is a multi-use trail. ATVs, south and east 47 miles from Mineral Point dirt bikes, mopeds, motorcycles, horses, in Iowa County, across Lafayette County, to bicycles and hikers also use the trail. Monroe in Green County. A highlight of Use caution and yield to pedestrians, horses and bikers. CAUTION: The speed limit on the trail is 30 mph. When crossing bridges it’s 151 15 mph. Within city limits and when Mineral Po operating within 100 feet of a person or dwelling it’s 10 mph. AREA ATTRACTIONS: Pendarvis, Browntown-Cadiz Springs State 151 Recreation Area, Historic Cheesemaking 23 Center, and Minhas Brewing. IOWA CO LAFAYETTE CO Pec LEGEND: at For a complete listing of all onica icons, see page 4. G FOR MORE INFORMATION: Calamine Tri-County Trails Fa

608/776-5706 151 G www.tricountytrails.com Belmont Pecatonica Tri-County ATV Club State Trail R iv 608/574-2911 or 608/776-4048 126 er www.tricountyatv.org

CARMEN JOPP Darlington 81

11 Shullsburg

042 6 Mile

46 Visit travelwisconsin.com the trail is the 440-foot trestle that spans have the option to check out some club the Pecatonica River just west of trails that spur to the east. On those trails, Browntown. you can head to Fayette, Blanchardville, Many ATVers begin their journey in Lamont or Wiota. historic Mineral Point. One of the oldest Next comes Darlington, the county communities in Wisconsin, it was founded seat. Darlington was once known as the in 1827 by coal miners from Cornwall, “Pearl of the Pecatonica” because people England sent to mine lead for bullets and harvested clams from the river to produce musket balls. This corner of Wisconsin, pearl button blanks. Here you can refuel, where it meets Iowa and Illinois, was lousy eat and check out the historic downtown. with surface lead deposits. The miners dug The county courthouse is an architectural shallow mines, often living in their holes treasure. Built in 1905, this sandstone leading to Wisconsin’s nickname as the beauty includes marble walls, tiled floors “Badger State.” For more mining history, and a Tiffany glass rotunda. visit Pendarvis, a Wisconsin Historical From Darlington the trail winds south- Society site that preserves many of the east through another pair of mining towns, homes of the city’s original Cornish miners Gratiot and South Wayne, on its way to (608/987-2122, Green County. Just across the county line, www.wisconsinhistory.org). the trail bridges the Pecatonica River as it Leaving Mineral Point, you’ll follow turns south to Illinois, then passes south of Brewery Creek south about three miles to the Browntown-Cadiz Springs State the county line, then jump a valley to Recreation Area (608/966-3777, Furnace Creek and the Pecatonica River at wiparks.net). This 644-acre day-use park Slateford. For the next 35 miles, you’ll features a pair of spring-fed lakes and a trace the Pecatonica’s tortured route wildlife refuge. From the park it’s just a through Lafayette County, all the way to short five miles to Monroe and the end of Browntown. the trail. Calamine is an old mining town. Like Monroe, of course, put the cheese in many in the area, its name reflects its min- the Cheese Country Trail. The art and busi- ing past; towns like Swindlers Ridge, New ness of making cheese has kept the city Diggings, and Lead Mine. About halfway thriving for more than a century. oint between Calamine and Darlington you Downtown, the Historic Cheesemaking Center tells that story (608/325-4636, www.greencounty.org). The city is also the home of the Minhas Craft Brewery (608/325-3191, www.minhasbrewery.com). Founded in 1845, it is the oldest continual- ly operated brewery in the Midwest pro- G F Yellowstone ducing the award-winning lagers, ales and Lake State Park ayette bock beers of the Berghoff label as well as Blumer’s old-fashioned sodas. Tours and G F GREEN CO tastings are offered. Lamont 81 Argyle 81 D

81 Wiota

78 Monroe

11 Gratiot 11 Browntown South 69 78 Wayne es

Wisconsin ATV Guide 47 Wisconsin ANN HARDEN ATV Events

Throughout the year, many ATV events take place across the state. Here’s a sampling of some of the larger ones. In addition to these, many ATV clubs host events year-round. Check the Wisconsin ATV Association (WATVA) Web site for club information, news and events (www.watva.org). Muddy 13 Raceway – Hancock, Big Flats, Wittenberg & Crandon www.muddy13raceway.com Taking place at several sites in Wisconsin, the Muddy 13 Raceway is dubbed Wisconsin’s Greatest Mud Bog Experience. It offers ATV and truck mud bog competitions and grass drags. You can attempt to cross through the muck on your ATV or Park Falls Mud Run. stay dry as a spectator. There’s even a kiddie mud bog for children. Memorial Weekend ATV Rally – Hurley/Mercer ATV’n with Feel’n – Nekoosa 715/476-2389, www.hurleywi.com or Dyracuse Recreational Area www.mercercc.com 608/564-7537, One of the largest and longest running www.monroeprairieatvclub.com ATV events in Wisconsin. Activities Enjoy the Dyracuse Recreational Area while planned during the three-day event helping to make a difference. This late include a poker run, cookouts and live summer event is a benefit ride for the entertainment. Area restaurants sponsor Exceptional Citizens of Adams County. In breakfast, lunch and dinner specials. In addition to the benefit ride, food and 2005, the parade set the Guinness World drinks are available. It’s not only a great Record for the largest ATV parade ever way to spend a day at the park, but also a with a whopping 687 ATVs in the parade. terrific way to donate to a worthy cause. That record has since been broken, but Sponsored by the Monroe Riders ATV organizers hope to beat the new record of Club. 1,138 ATVs in 2008. ALAN ORR

ATV Adventure Weekend in Gillett.

48 Visit travelwisconsin.com