Aldo Leopold Legacy Trail System
Nicolet State Trail

This county-operated trail meanders for more than 89 miles through the Nicolet National Forest in northeastern Wisconsin. The trail follows the same corridor built by railroad companies in the late 19th century to open up Wisconsin's pine and hardwood forests for the timber industry. The Nicolet State Trail runs through several small communities from Gillett in Oconto County to the Michigan state line.

Wild, free-flowing rivers and streams abound in this part of Wisconsin, adding to an area already rich in natural resources. The Nicolet National Forest [exit DNR] which encompasses the trail has an abundance of recreation opportunities. In addition to camping, hunting, fishing and water recreation, the forest provides numerous miles of trail for hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing and wildlife viewing.

Activities

The Nicolet State Trail is a year-round multiple use recreational trail that offers opportunities for ATVs, snowmobiling, horseback riding, off-road bicycling and walking. Trail activities vary by time of year and by county. It is important to use good trail etiquette to ensure the enjoyment and safety of all trail users. Contact the county operators with any questions on availability or dates for the different trail uses.

Wisconsin Trail Etiquette and Safety Guidelines [PDF 2MB]

All-Terrain Vehicles

ATV use varies by different sections on the trail. In Oconto County, ATVs are allowed on the trail during the summer months from May 1 through October 31 or as posted or published. ATVs are permitted year-round in Forest and Florence counties. The Nicolet State Trail is the only trail in Forest County open to both snowmobile and ATV use. Operators must follow all Wisconsin ATV operation laws. All three counties have hundreds of miles of ATV routes that connect with the Nicolet State Trail. Operators must use only legally marked routes to leave the Nicolet State Trail. Cross-country travel through the Nicolet National Forest or on private land is prohibited.

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 that portion of the Nicolet State Trail that is authorized by the Master Plan for use by ATVs and as posted by the Department. 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 and 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 and walkers and bikers must share the trail with motorized vehicles. 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. Pet owners must share the trail with motorized vehicles and horses.

Horseback Riding

 Horseback riding varies by different sections on the trail. Horses are allowed year-round in Florence County. Horses are prohibited on the Nicolet State Trail in Forest County. In Oconto County, horses are allowed on the trail from April 15 through November 10. The trail may be rough or soft in many sections and riders must share the trail with motorized vehicles.

Winter Activities

The entire trail is open to snowmobiling when county snowmobile trails are open. Snowmobile operators must follow all Wisconsin snowmobile laws, including traveling no more than 15 miles per hour within any of the village limits. All three counties have hundreds of miles of snowmobile routes that connect with the Nicolet State Trail. When operating a snowmobile use only legally marked routes to leave the Nicolet State Trail. Cross-country travel through the Nicolet National Forest or on private land is prohibited.

   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.

More Information

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

For more information, ask:

Florence County Forestry/Parks Department
4818 Forestry Dr.
Florence, WI 54121
(715) 528-3207

Forest County Forestry/Parks Department
200 E. Madison Ave.
Crandon, WI 54520
(715) 478-3475

Oconto County Forestry/Parks Department
301 Washington St.
Oconto, WI 54153
(920) 834-6995