Approximately 300 miles of multiple-use recreational trails are located throughout Douglas County.  The Forestry Department oversees the development and maintenance of 300 miles of snowmobile and seasonal ATV trails, ten miles of cross-country ski trails, and numerous nature-hiking trails.  Aside from the traditional functions, the trails are also used for snow shoeing, dog sledding, horseback riding, nature and wildlife viewing, hiking, and bicycling.

The Douglas County Forestry Department welcomes you to enjoy the largest and one of the finest county forests in the State of Wisconsin.  More than 1,200 miles of roads and trails wind and loop through the 273,000 acre forest and surrounding properties.  Whether you enjoy motorized recreational pursuits or non-motorized activities, you are sure to find an area of the forest that suits your needs.
Douglas County Forest Access Management Plan
Douglas County Forest Access Management Brochure (2010 Update)

All trails are closed in the springtime to prevent trail base erosion and to reduce the potential of forest fires. Trails will also be closed during Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources "red flag" periods, due to extremely high fire danger.

All vehicles not officially licensed or registered by the State of Wisconsin as highway or recreational vehicles (large utility vehicles, golf carts, go karts, etc.) are prohibited in the Douglas County Forest, unless written permission has been obtained from the Douglas County Forestry Department. Permission will only be granted for special events, vehicles whose primary purpose is utility line work, and authorized persons performing work on the County Forest. 

Trail Reports

Trail report announcements can be obtained by calling (715) 378-4528. Please note that this recording is used for the parks in the summertime.

Additional Information

Contact the Forestry Department by phone at (715) 378-2219 or by email to receive maps or information about the recreational trails.