Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest, Wisconsin

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The Northern Highland/American Legion State Forest, established in 1925 to protect the stream flow at the headwaters of the Wisconsin, Flambeau and Manitowish Rivers, is a great place for families looking to experience the Wisconsin outdoors. Hike, bike, canoe and fish over 222,000 acres (90000 hectares) of forestland known for its scenic lakes and streams. And in winter, cross-country ski, snowshoe and snowmobile on miles and miles of wooded trails. Camping, birding, and wildlife viewing are year-round affairs.

Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest Photo Gallery

Stroll along one of the Forest’s four interpretive nature trails ranging in length from 0.5 (0.8 km) to 2.5 miles (4 km) and learn more about the area's history, wildlife and plants. Take a guided hike led by a naturalist or participate in one of the many programs offered at the Lake Nature Center and Clear Lake Campground from June through August.

Looking for something more adventurous? Hike one of the seven designated hiking trails, old logging roads, forest access roads or snowmobile trails or bike nearly 40 miles (64 km) on marked trails. For a serious dose of adventure test your family's skills on remote and challenging mountain bike trails.

An official site on the Great Wisconsin Birding and Nature trail, the Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest is also a birdwatcher's paradise. Spot a blue jay, loon, bald eagle or one of the other 241 species that inhabit the forest. Wildlife viewing extends beyond bird watching. Catch sight of a deer, beaver, otter, fox, coyote or perhaps even a black bear.

The forest is not just a summer destination. From December through March, outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy over 40 miles (64 km) of groomed and marked cross country ski trails, 30 miles (48 km) of winter use trails and over 400 miles (643 km) of snowmobile trails.

Facilities at the Crystal Lake, Clear Lake, Indian Mound and Little Star Picnic Areas include drinking water and vault toilets. All four picnic areas have swimming beaches. There are eighteen family, five wilderness and over one hundred canoe campsites within the forest.

Getting there

The Forest can be accessed from numerous points. To access the Lumberjack Trailheads take Old K east 1 mile from Boulder Junction to Concora Road or take Hwy M south, turn left on hwy K and continue on for 5 miles (the second trailhead is just beyond Nixon Lake Road). To access the McNaughton Lake Trail travel south on Hwy 47 from Woodruff, turn right on Kildare Road. To access the Crystal Lake Campground and Picnic area take Hwy 51 north, turn right on Hwy M and then right on Hwy N. To access the Clear Lake Campground take Hwy 47 south, turn left on Woodruff Road.

Map It!
Google Maps
Trailheads
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Campgrounds
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

Getting around

The Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest is the place to head for backcountry trails and remote waterways. Hike, bike, cross-country ski, snowshoe and snowmobile on miles and miles of wooded trails. Paddle for a day or take a multi-day canoe trip and turn your family vacation into an adventure with kids.

Trail Guide
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Canoe Routes
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

When to travel

Family activities are to be had year-around. Summer (June-August) is ideal for fishing and watersports whereas cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are best in winter (December-March). Head to the Northwoods in early fall (September thru mid-October) and discover why the changing of leaves is referred to as Colorama.

Weather Forecast & Climate History
Eagle River
Rhinelander
Minocqua

Fees

Admission is charged to all motor vehicles entering the State Forest. A Wisconsin State Trail Pass is required for mountain biking on the McNaughton, Madeline and Lumberjack trails and cross-country skiing on groomed trails (individuals 16 and up). An overnight fee is charged for camping within the designated campgrounds. An overnight fee is not charged for canoe and backcountry camping.

Contact details

Trout Lake Forestry Headquarters in Boulder Junction +1 (715) 385 2704 or +1 (715) 385 2727. Woodruff Service Center in Woodruff +1 (715) 356 5211. Crystal Lake Contact Station (Memorial Day to Labor Day) +1 (715) 542 3923.

Things to keep in mind

The weather varies considerably, even in summer. Pack rain gear as well jackets and sweaters. If you plan to rent a boat or any other equipment that requires towing, make sure that your vehicle has the capacity to pull the desired load.