Rail trail · Wisconsin
Devil's River State Trail
A 15-mile crushed-stone rail-trail through Brown and Manitowoc counties in eastern Wisconsin, highlighted by two dramatic railroad trestles spanning the Devil's River and passing farmlands, prairies, rivers, and wetlands.
Length
15 miles
Surface
Crushed stone
Route
Point to point
Endpoints
Denmark to Rockwood (via Maribel and Francis Creek)
Season
Open year-round; best May through October; no grooming in winter
Plan your ride or walk
The Devil's River State Trail runs 15 miles on a former railroad corridor through four small communities in Brown and Manitowoc counties, offering a quiet eastern Wisconsin rail-trail experience with an authentic highlight: two dramatic converted railroad trestles crossing the Devil's River and its tributaries. The crushed-stone surface passes farmlands, prairies, river banks, and wetlands. The Denmark trailhead has a restored depot-shelter building with parking and restrooms. Additional parking is available in Francis Creek near the city park. No state trail pass is required.
Getting there
The Denmark trailhead (the most developed end) is at the intersection of Pine Street and Railroad Avenue in Denmark, about 15 miles south of Green Bay off I-43. Parking and restrooms are at the depot-shelter. In Francis Creek (Manitowoc County), parking is available adjacent to the trail near the city park and ball fields. Contact Brown County Parks (920-448-4466) or Manitowoc County Parks (920-683-4189).
Official trail information
Confirm current conditions, closures, and any required trail pass on the managing agency’s page.
Wisconsin DNR: Devil's River State TrailWhat to bring
Gear keyed to a long, flat trail day: footwear, hydration, sun protection, and a pack sized for the distance.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Devil's River State Trail?
The trail is 15 miles point to point from Denmark to Rockwood, passing through Maribel and Francis Creek.
Is a trail pass required?
No. The Devil's River State Trail does not require a Wisconsin State Trail Pass.
What are the trestles on the trail?
The trail features two converted railroad trestles that cross the Devil's River and its tributaries, offering scenic views over the river corridor.
Where is the best place to park?
The Denmark trailhead has a historic depot-shelter building, parking, and restrooms. It is the most developed access point and a good starting place for an out-and-back ride.
More Wisconsin trails
Looking for parks instead? Browse state parks by state.