Aldo Leopold Legacy Trail System
Saunders State Trail

This 8.4-mile county-operated trail links with the Gandy Dancer State Trail south of the city of Superior in Douglas County. The trail begins near the town of Saunders and passes through the communities of Boylston Junction, Boylston and Borea before continuing into Minnesota. Along its route, the trail crosses Clear Creek and the Pokegama River.

In Minnesota, the trail is maintained and operated by the Minnesota DNR as an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trail known as the Soo Line South ATV Trail [exit DNR].

Trail Activities

The Saunders State Trail may bring a number of different users to the trail at the same time. It is important to use good trail etiquette to ensure the enjoyment and safety of all trail users.

Wisconsin Trail Etiquette and Safety Guidelines [PDF 2MB]

Motorized Vehicles

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are allowed on the trail year-round. Operators must follow all Wisconsin ATV operation laws. The Saunders State Trail corridor continues into Minnesota as the Soo Line South ATV Trail. The trail also connects to the Gandy Dancer State Trail and other Douglas County ATV routes.

In March 2010 the State authorized a Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) Pilot Program for operation of UTVs on designated ATV trails and road routes. Until June 30, 2012, UTVs may use the Saunders State Trail that is authorized by the Master Plan for use by ATVs and as posted by the county. A trail segment may not be posted open for UTV use unless the county has passed a resolution for the county to participate in the pilot program. UTV Pilot Program.

Walking & Bicycling

   The entire trail is open to walking and bicycling, though bicycling is not recommended. The trail may be rough or soft in many sections. If you plan to bike the trail, the tread is more suitable for off-road bikes.

Pet owners, please be sure to have your pet on a leash, 8 feet or shorter, at all times. You must pick up after your pet.

Horseback Riding

The entire trail is open to horseback riding. The trail is not groomed or surfaced and may be rough or soft in many sections. Riders must share the trail with motorized vehicles.

Winter Activities

Snowmobiles are permitted on the the trail. Operators must follow all Wisconsin snowmobile laws, including traveling no more than 15 miles per hour within any of the village limits. The Saunders State Trail also connects to numerous miles of county snowmobile trails.

   The trail is open to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, however, the trail is not groomed, and skiers and snowshoers must share the trail with snowmobiles and motorized vehicles.

More Information

See the links below for more information about activities, communities, area attractions, features and other useful links for the Saunders State Trail.

For more information, ask:

Douglas County Forestry Dept.
P.O. Box 211,
Solon Springs WI 54873
(715) 378-2219