Rail trail · Wisconsin
Nicolet State Trail
A 40-mile crushed-stone rail-trail through the pines, lakes, and logging history of Wisconsin's Northwoods between Eagle River and Rhinelander, passing through the Nicolet National Forest corridor and deep boreal forest.
Length
40 miles
Surface
Crushed stone
Route
Point to point
Endpoints
Eagle River to Rhinelander
Season
Best May through October for biking and hiking; groomed for snowmobiling and some cross-country ski use after snowfall
Plan your ride or walk
The Nicolet State Trail runs 40 miles through the heart of Wisconsin's Northwoods on a former logging-railroad corridor, connecting Eagle River in Vilas County to Rhinelander in Oneida County through the Nicolet National Forest and a landscape of pine forest, bogs, and lakes. The crushed-stone surface is flat and well maintained, making it a good family outing in an area better known for its hundreds of fishing lakes. The corridor passes through Three Lakes, the only town midway, which offers food and services. Loon calls, bald eagles, and white-tailed deer are regular company on this quiet stretch of trail far from urban development. A Wisconsin State Trail Pass is required for cyclists 16 and older. Winter brings heavy Northwoods snowpack and the trail opens to snowmobiles once the season starts.
Getting there
The southern trailhead in Rhinelander is about 50 miles west of Eagle River via US 8, and Rhinelander is roughly 3 hours north of Madison via US 51. The northern trailhead in Eagle River is on WI-70. Parking and services are available at both ends and in Three Lakes midway.
Official trail information
Confirm current conditions, closures, and any required trail pass on the managing agency’s page.
Wisconsin DNR: Nicolet State TrailWhat to bring
Gear keyed to a long, flat trail day: footwear, hydration, sun protection, and a pack sized for the distance.
What to pack
Plan with our tools
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Nicolet State Trail?
The Nicolet State Trail is 40 miles point to point from Eagle River south to Rhinelander through the Nicolet National Forest in Wisconsin's Northwoods, on a flat crushed-stone former railroad grade.
What wildlife might you see on the Nicolet State Trail?
The Northwoods corridor is habitat for bald eagles, loons, sandhill cranes, white-tailed deer, black bears, and occasional timber wolves. The many lakes visible from the trail are fishing destinations, and the boreal forest supports species not found in southern Wisconsin.
Are there services along the Nicolet State Trail?
Three Lakes, roughly halfway, is the main service town on the corridor with restaurants and shops near the trail. Eagle River and Rhinelander at the ends are larger towns with full amenities including outfitters, lodging, and bike shops.
Do you need a pass for the Nicolet State Trail?
Yes. Cyclists 16 and older need a Wisconsin State Trail Pass, daily or annual. Hikers and walkers use it for free. The trail converts to a snowmobile corridor in winter, so exercise caution in shoulder seasons.
More Wisconsin trails
Looking for parks instead? Browse state parks by state.