Aldo Leopold Legacy Trail System
Old Abe State Trail

The Old Abe State Trail is a cooperative effort between the State of Wisconsin and Chippewa County. This paved 20-mile trail connects Lake Wissota State Park and Brunet Island State Park in Cornell. The trail is on an abandoned railroad grade and winds through agricultural and forest land while following the undeveloped shoreline of the beautiful Chippewa River. The trail features an abundance of wildlife and natural beauty, with many historical sites along the way.

In-line skating on the Old Abe State Trail.
Photo © WI Department of Tourism

The Old Abe State Trail is part of the Chippewa Valley Trail System. When completed, the Trail System will feature an 80-mile network of trail stretching from Cornell, through Chippewa Falls and Eau Claire to Durand and Menomonie. Other trails in the system include the Chippewa River and Red Cedar state trails.

Activities

The Old Abe 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]

Walking & Bicycling

     The level grade and paved surface make this trail suitable for bicyclists, walkers, joggers and in-line skaters. Each bicyclist and skater age 16 or older needs a Wisconsin State Trail Pass while using the trail.

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.

The fairly level grade and smooth surface make most of this trail accessible to wheelchair users and others with mobility impairments.

Ice Age National Scenic Trail

The Ice Age Trail crosses the Old Abe State Trail near Brunet Island State Park in Cornell.

Horseback Riding

The southern portion of the trail (from Jim Falls south to County Highway O), has a parallel trail next to the asphalt trail which is developed for horseback riding. Riders must keep off the asphalt trail. Each rider age 16 or older needs a Wisconsin State Trail Pass while using the trail.

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 Old Abe State Trail also connects to numerous miles of Chippewa 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. Skiers do not need a trail pass while using the trail.

More Information

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

For more information, ask:

Land Conservation/Forest Management Department
711 North Bridge Street
Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
(715) 726-7920