Located in Wisconsin’s North Woods, the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest offers a variety of things to do for those who can’t get enough of snow and cold weather!

Snowmobile Trails
There are over 800 miles of snowmobile trails that wind through the Forest, offering scenic winter beauty to travelers. Northern Wisconsin is known worldwide for its excellent snow conditions and trail systems. The trails are groomed and maintained by many snowmobile clubs in the area and are part of Wisconsin’s statewide snowmobile trail network.

Ice Fishing
With over 600 lakes dotting the landscape on the Forest, many excellent opportunities are out there to provide the winter angler with abundant and trophy sized fish! Many lakes can be accessed at either drive-in or walk-in boat launches. For more information about fishing, visit the CNNF fishing pages.

Lovers of real backwoods and solitude will find designated Wilderness Areas on the forest the perfect place to get back to nature. Over 44,000 acres of Congressionally designated Wilderness Areas are on the Chequamegon-Nicolet. The Headwaters Wilderness, located southeast of Eagle River, and the Blackjack Springs Wilderness, found northeast of Eagle River, offer a Northwoods experience free of noise and exhaust. You’ll find many old trails and woods roads to explore. Maps of Wilderness and other non-motorized recreation areas can be picked up at local Forest Service offices.

Fill up the thermos with hot chocolate, pack a few sandwiches, and head out into the woods with the whole family to find the perfect Christmas Tree. Searching for, cutting, and carrying your tree out of the National Forest will create lasting memories for adults and children alike. You can pick up a permit at any Chequamegon-Nicolet Office for $5.00 per tree. You might even get a few "tree" tips, too!

Cross-country Skiing
200 miles of designated cross-country ski trails can be found on the National Forest. Trails vary by size and difficulty, but they all offer skiers beautiful and serene experiences, and for many, an ideal escape from the everyday stresses of life! Most trails are groomed for both traditional style skiing and ski-skating. All areas have maps available at trailheads.

Parking Permits are required at many trailheads, boat launches, and parking areas. They can be purchased at the site for $5.00 for one day. An annual permit is available at any Forest Service office for $20.00. Some local businesses and Chamber of Commerce offices also sell permits.