Chequamegon National Forest Forest Road 106 Penokee Hills Loop
Iron Range ruins through Wisconsin's mining heartland
Forest Road 106 cuts through the heart of Wisconsin’s Penokee Hills, where rusted mine headframes and overgrown railroad grades tell the story of the state’s iron mining boom. The 18-mile loop connects Upson to Mellen through dense mixed forest, crossing Potato River twice and threading between Tyler Forks and Bad River watersheds. Key waypoints include the abandoned Penokee Mine site at mile 8 and the historic Civilian Conservation Corps camp remnants near Marengo River crossing.
This moderate trail demands high-clearance vehicles for rocky stream crossings and washout sections, especially after spring runoff. Stock 4WD handles it fine, but expect slow going through the technical river fords and loose shale climbs. Best tackled May through October when snow’s clear but before hunting season crowds arrive. No permits needed, dispersed camping allowed throughout national forest sections. You’ll earn solitude, trout fishing access, and a education in Wisconsin’s industrial past few overlanders ever see.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 6-8 hours |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1680 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Mellen, Wisconsin |
| Land manager | Chequamegon National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.
Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle Forest Road 106?
Yes, a stock Wrangler with decent tires will do fine. The trail requires high-clearance 4WD for rocky sections and water crossings, but it's not technical rock crawling.
Is the Penokee Hills Loop accessible in early spring?
Best to wait until May when snowmelt runoff subsides and the forest service opens seasonal roads. Spring mud can make sections impassable and you'll tear up the trail.
Do I need permits to camp along Forest Road 106?
No permits required for dispersed camping in Chequamegon National Forest. Follow standard Leave No Trace principles and camp at least 200 feet from water sources.
What's the toughest part of this 18-mile loop?
The water crossings can be tricky after heavy rain, and some rocky climbs through the mining ruins require careful line choice. Nothing extreme, but take your time through the technical spots.
How many water crossings should I expect on the loop?
Several small creek crossings, mostly shallow but can swell after rain. None are typically deeper than bumper height, but scout them first if water levels look high.