Wisconsin State Park 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.

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.

Trail activities

The 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]

Walking, bicycling and in-line skating

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.

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 trail. Operators must follow all Wisconsin snowmobile laws. The 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. Skiers do not need a trail pass while using the trail.

Hunting

The Old Abe State Trail corridor is open to hunting from County Highway S in Jim Falls north, approximately 10 miles, to the Cornell city limits during the Wisconsin state parks hunting time frame. For more information, please see:

• Hunting and trapping in Wisconsin State Parks

Directions

Lake Wissota: Parking is available near the trail at County Highway O north of Lake Wissota and at Lake Wissota State Park.

Jim Falls: Parking is available near the trail at County Highway S in Jim Falls.

Cornell: Parking is available near the trail at State Highway 64 in Cornell and at Brunet Island State Park.

Volunteering

• Wisconsin State Park System volunteering opportunities

Department of Tourism listings

• Chippewa Falls [exit DNR]

More in the area

• Chippewa County [exit DNR]
• Chippewa River Trail - Eau Claire [exit DNR]
• Eau Claire Trails [exit DNR]
• Visit Eau Claire [exit DNR]