Wisconsin ATV Trails with Scenic Stop-Offs
Wisconsin is one of the best places in the country to ride an ATV or UTV thanks to our extensive trail network and the hard work our local clubs do to maintain it. If you’re planning an ATV adventure here, you may want to build it around ATV trails that offer particularly scenic or unique attractions. This handpicked list of trails features scenic stop-offs at crystal-clear lakes, historic bridges, waterfalls and more. Plus, all of these trails are great options for stand-alone day trips or as parts of a larger ATV road trip with your favorite crew.
Lakeside Ride
The Black River State Forest ATV trail passes right by Wazee Lake, a former iron mine that is now a popular scuba diving spot. At 350 feet, Wazee Lake is the deepest in Wisconsin and is known for its crystal-clear water. The lake makes for a great spot to hop off your ATV to have some lunch or simply take in the scenery with your group.
Forest Views
The Burnett County ATV Trail System offers two intriguing options for scenic features that you can see from the front seat of your ATV. First, you can drive across the St. Croix Trestle Bridge by taking the Gandy Dancer Trail toward Danbury. The bridge is well maintained and is an interesting glimpse of the area’s history. Second, while you’re riding in Burnett County, be sure to also check out the Pine Barrens Scenic Overlook at the Namekagon Barrens State Wildlife Area. Here your grouop can enjoy an impressive view of the areas vast forest.
Chasing Waterfalls
Up in Douglas County you can ride stretches of the 82 mile ATV trail system to two of the state of Wisconsin’s best waterfalls: Amnicon Falls and Big Manitou Falls. While not directly on the trail, these waterfalls are only a short hike once you’ve parked your ATV. To visit Amnicon Falls, take the Tri-County Corridor Trail and park by Amnicon Falls State Park. Pick the trail up in Ashland to enjoy scenic views of the Moquah Barrens State Natural Area and the Brule River State Forest.
Big Manitou Falls, Wisconsin’s tallest waterfall, is in Pattison State Park. The most scenic route you can take here is the Saunder’s Grade trail. This popular trail also provides great views of the Black River Creek and Balsam Creek.
An ATV Playground
Perhaps your idea of a scenic trail has less to do with observing nature and more to do with experiencing it first-hand. If this is your ATV philosophy, then consider riding out to the Embarrass River ATV Park. This adrenaline filled paradise features 30 miles of trails and plenty of small mud pits and ponds to satisfy even the most dirt-loving riders. You can also take a more relaxed pace and enjoy views of the Embarrass River which runs through the park.
The health and safety of our travelers is our top priority. Please use proper safety gear and exercise caution on your adventure. Find more ATV fun on these five must-experience trails, or check out our full ATV directory.
