Black River State Forest

Recreation - Winter Activities

Snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are popular winter recreation activities on the Black River State Forest.

Snowmobiling

Black River State Forest contains 51 miles of snowmobile trails (see brochure with map), which link with the Jackson County Forestry and Parks trail system. Snowmobilers can travel on state forest trails between Millston and Lake Arbutus and between Black River Falls and City Point.

Trail conditions are at http://www.travelwisconsin.com/snow_report.aspx (click the "snowmobiling" tab).

Access

Parking lots for the state forest trail system are plowed after each snowfall and trail maps are available at parking lot facilities. Parking lots and trail access points are located on:

• N. Settlement Road (north of County Road "O")
• Hwy 54 east of Black River Falls
• E 7th Street, off Hwy 12 East, near Black River Falls

Rules and Safety

Wisconsin law requires those who use Wisconsin snowmobile trails to display either Wisconsin registration or a snowmobile trail pass. Funds from this program will be designated for use as trail aids and related costs to enhance all Wisconsin snowmobile recreation. The trail pass can be purchased online at our Online Licensing Center, over the counter at any DNR authorized License Agent or by phone at 1-877-945-4236. The $35.00 non-resident snowmobile trail use pass is valid from July 1st through June 30th.

Children under the age of 12 who are operating a snowmobile must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or other person over the age of 18. Snowmobile riders between 12 and 18 years old must have a valid snowmobile safety certificate, or be accompanied either by a person 18 years or older or a person 14 years or older who has a snowmobile safety certificate. See the Wisconsin Snowmobile Laws (PDF 316KB) for more information.

Please note that snowmobiling is allowed only on trails designated by orange blazers. Trails may also be closed periodically due to weather conditions.

Please report any accident resulting in death or an injury requiring treatment by a physician. To report an accident, call:

• Emergencies: Dial 911
• Jackson County Sheriff: 715-284-5357
• Black River State Forest Superintendent: 715-284-1406 or 715-284-4103
• Nearest DNR conservation warden

Cross-Country Skiing

The Black River State Forest has 24 miles of cross-country ski trails. Trails are groomed for skaters and traditional skiers and provide a variety of skill levels, from beginning to expert. A day use or annual trail pass is required for all skiers 16 years of age and older.

For a map of the trails and additional information, see the Black River State Forest Hiking, Biking, & Skiing Trails brochure (PDF, 512KB)

The Wisconsin Department of Tourism provides updates on cross-country ski trail conditions (exit DNR).