Nicolet National Forest
Nicolet National Forest is a moderate 80+ miles off-road trail near Eagle River, WI, best run May - October. The gear list marks All-terrain tires, 4WD with low range and Recovery kit as required, and 2" lift and Skid plates as recommended. A stock high-clearance 4x4 can run it; check the gear list before you go.
Trail Conditions
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Nicolet National Forest delivers surprisingly rugged terrain for the Midwest, with rocky trail sections winding through dense hemlock and hardwood forest in northern Wisconsin. Fern-covered forest floors, misty morning atmospherics, and old-growth groves create a feel more Pacific Northwest than Great Lakes. The trail network connects pristine northern lakes and provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Fun Facts
The Nicolet side of Chequamegon-Nicolet NF contains some of Wisconsin's last old-growth hemlock stands.
Eagle River calls itself the 'Snowmobile Capital of the World' with over 500 miles of groomed trails.
The forest was named after Jean Nicolet, the first European to reach the Great Lakes in 1634.
🛞 Tires
🔧 Suspension
⚙️ Drivetrain
🪢 Recovery
🛡️ Protection
Closest campgrounds to Nicolet National Forest:
- Franklin Lake Campground · 11 mi (straight-line)
- Timber Wolf Creek Camp · Rhinelander · 21 mi (straight-line)
- Marion Lake Campground · Watersmeet · 25 mi (straight-line)
- Lake Ottawa Recreation Area · Iron River · 26 mi (straight-line)
- Moosehead Lake Campground · Marenisco · 28 mi (straight-line)
Straight-line distance. Check the map for drive time.
GPS Coordinates
Import into Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Garmin
Map of Eagle River, WI
5-Day Forecast
Nearby Trails
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
A mild lift, all-terrain tires, and correct gear ratio will get you through this trail confidently.
Tire Size Calculator
Convert tire sizes and compare diameter differences before you swap.
Size up correctly, 33s vs 35s matters on moderate terrain.
Gear Ratio Calculator
Find the right gear ratio after lifting or upsizing tires.
Re-gear after a tire upgrade to restore trail torque and MPG.
Wheel Fitment Calculator
Calculate backspacing and offset so wider wheels clear your suspension.
Extra wheel width = extra clearance on tight lines. Check offset before buying.
MPG Calculator
Estimate fuel economy after a tire upgrade, important for remote runs.
Bigger tires cut MPG. Plan your fuel stops for this trail.