Explore Wisconsin’s Unique National Forest: Over 800 Miles of Trails and 2,000 Beautiful Lakes

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Explore Wisconsin's Unique National Forest: Over 800 Miles of Trails and 2,000 Beautiful Lakes

Wisconsin’s beautiful Northwoods are home to pine forests, clear lakes, and opportunities to lose yourself in nature. No place is better for this than Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. This forest is a staggering 1.5 million acres, making it larger than the entire state of Delaware. This incredible place is criss-crossed by hundreds of miles of hiking trails and dotted with thousands of lakes.



If you’re in Minneapolis, the most bikeable city in the U.S., it can be hard to believe that this remote wilderness lies two hours away. While it is a paradise for anyone who longs to lace up their hiking boots and hit the trails, it’s also a great place to visit if hiking isn’t your thing. It’s perfect for camping, lake swimming, and taking a boat out to paddle. There are also many scenic drives within Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest that will allow you to see the wilds of Wisconsin through your windshield.

This vast region can quickly become overwhelming if you don’t know where to begin. Thankfully, the forest is divided into five districts, each offering its own unique attractions. Visit the hiking paradise of the Eagle River-Florence District, horseback ride through the trails of the Washburn District, see the mountainous Great Divide District, explore the popular rivers and lakes in Lakewood-Laona District, or spot wildlife in the Medford Park-Falls Ranger District.



Hiking in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest

A chilly lakeside view in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest

There are plenty of ways to explore the trails in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, from cycling and horseback riding to cross country skiing and off-roading. However, the simplest and most immersive way to enjoy the forest is on foot. With more than 800 miles of trails, this place is so large that you could probably spend a full week exploring the trails without getting bored, but if you only have a day or two, there are a few popular trails worth considering. 

For a short, easy taste of what the forest has to offer, stop by the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center Boardwalk. It’s a quick 15-minute trek and is considered a wheelchair-friendly trail. Alternatively, the Drummond Woods Loop Trail is as short as the boardwalk trail, but the atmosphere is quiet and offers an escape from the summer crowds. 

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The North Country National Scenic Trail spans 200 miles, with more challenging terrain for experienced hikers. To hike just a portion of this trail, consider the Porcupine Lake Widerness Area, where you can embark on a beautiful 7-mile trek overlooking lakes dotted with beaver dams. 

Lakes in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest

Forested lakeshore in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.