The Tuscobia Trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adventurous activities for outdoor enthusiasts of all stripes.
The trail, renowned for its accessibility year-round, caters to a diverse range of interests from hikes amidst the pines to adrenaline-pumping snowmobile races in the winter chill.
Whether you’re a seasoned trail veteran or a family looking for a weekend getaway, the Tuscobia Trail promises an unforgettable experience with something for everyone.
About the Tuscobia Trail & Activities
Spanning an impressive distance, the trail weaves through the varied terrain of Wisconsin’s countryside, offering breathtaking views and an escape into nature.
The Tuscobia State Trail is not just a path but a 76-mile stretch and gateway to exploring the rich flora and fauna of the region, making it a paradise for nature photographers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
The changing seasons bring their own charm to the trail, with vibrant wildflowers in spring, lush greenery in summer, fiery foliage in fall, and a serene snow-covered landscape in winter.
For the active adventurer, the Tuscobia Trail provides ample opportunities for biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing, each activity offering a unique way to engage with the stunning surroundings.
Fishing and hunting enthusiasts will find the areas adjacent to the trail teeming with opportunities, while campgrounds and picnic spots invite families to enjoy leisurely days immersed in nature.
The trail is also dotted with historical landmarks and small towns that offer a glimpse into the local heritage, making it a cultural journey as much as a physical one.
The Tuscobia Trail map and guide shows you what activities can be done along the entire stretch of trail.
Tuscobia Trail Activities
ATVing & UTVing
ATVing & UTV riding are permitted on selected sections of the trail at specific times of the year and provide a good opportunity to view the wildlife and historical sites along the trail.
The map above highlights the specific ATV/UTV trail portion. Riders are required to stay on the trail. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the trail from Birchwood west to Rice Lake as this section of trail is shared with the Ice Age Trail. The maximum width for UTVs is 65 inches.
For more information on ATV or UTV riding in Wisconsin, please visit here.
Mountain Biking
Take a mountain biking trip along the Tuscobia State Trail. The trail links seven communities, making it easy for bicyclists to find food and amenities.
A number of other excellent area mountain biking opportunities can be found along or near the Tuscobia State Trail.
Be aware that the trail terrain does vary, as well as the difficulty level, so proceed with caution and ride safely.
Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling is allowed on the entire length of the Tuscobia State Trail, snow conditions permitting. The terrain on the trail varies, so proceed with caution and ride safely.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is allowed on the entire length of the Tuscobia State Trail, snow conditions permitting.
The entire trail is shared with snowmobiles, and ATVs/UTVs are allowed on the Sawyer County portion and west to Birchwood when the trail is open to snowmobiling.
Canoeing, Kayaking & Fishing
With several waterways located near or along the Tuscobia State Trail, there are plenty of opportunities for canoeing and fishing.
The Birchwood area offers especially good Trout fishing. The Chippewa River, near the Ojibwa stretch of the Tuscobia is very popular for canoeing and fishing.
The Brunet River, located east of Winter offers Trout, as well as Musky fishing. The numerous low rapids are attractive to many kayakers.
Near the Park Falls area, three creek crossings provide fishing and scenic outlook options. The creeks flow into the Flambeau River, a popular canoeing and kayaking destination.
Hiking & Horseback Riding
Hiking and horseback riding are fantastic ways to see all that Tuscobia State Trail has to offer. There is plenty of natural beauty and historic sites, as well as restaurants and retailers along the trail to make a complete vacation.
The terrain on the trail varies, so proceed with caution. It is a good idea to visit the Maps & Communities page to learn more about the sections of trail you plan to hike or ride.
Camping
There are two campgrounds with access to the Tuscobia State Trail.
Ojibwa Park, located along the Chippewa River, offers 16 camper sites (some with electricity), three tent sites, a large stone pavilion, drinking water, pit toilets, several picnic areas, picnic tables, fire rings, a small stream and pond, and an RV dump station.
All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. To reserve the shelter or for more information, call 715-266-5923.
The 30-unit Smith Lake County Park & Campground located on the shores of the Flambeau River offers amenities including electricity, picnic tables, fire rings, firewood, open-air shelter w/electricity, picnic area, grills, flush toilets and a shower building that is open seasonally, pressure water (faucet/drinking fountain) mid-April thru mid-to-late October weather permitting, vaulted toilets, boat landing & dock, shore fishing, sand beach, playground equipment, hiking trail, ATV/UTV ramp, and a dump station thru mid-Oct.
There are two canoe-in campsites via the Flambeau River.
All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. To reserve the shelter or for more information, call 715-339-6371.