Nicolet National Forest Blackjack Springs Wilderness Access Road
CCC roads to Wisconsin's most remote wilderness
The Blackjack Springs Wilderness Access Road follows Depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps routes deep into the Nicolet’s most primitive 5,904-acre wilderness. Starting from Blackjack Lake boat landing, the route climbs through sugar maple stands and crosses multiple spring-fed creeks before reaching the wilderness boundary at mile 6. The technical challenge comes at Hemlock Creek crossing, where limestone ledges create natural steps requiring precise wheel placement and a spotter.
This difficult trail requires experienced 4WD drivers with skid plates and recovery gear—the creek crossings can trap inexperienced wheelers, and cell service is nonexistent. Best attempted June through early October when water levels drop but before fall rains turn the clay sections into axle-deep slop. No permits for the access road, but wilderness entry requires registration. Dispersed camping allowed outside wilderness boundaries. You’ll find Wisconsin’s closest thing to true backcountry solitude, plus some of the state’s best brook trout fishing in waters few anglers reach.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1540 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Experienced 4WD with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Lakewood, Wisconsin |
| Land manager | Nicolet National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
What kind of 4WD do I need for the limestone ledges?
You need an experienced 4WD with skid plates and decent articulation. The limestone ledges are sharp and technical - stock vehicles will get damaged on the rocks.
Is this trail accessible in spring or after rain?
Avoid spring and post-rain conditions. The spring-fed wetlands turn into muddy soup and the limestone becomes slick as ice when wet.
Do I need permits to camp in the Blackjack Springs area?
No permits required for dispersed camping in Nicolet National Forest. Follow Leave No Trace principles and camp 100 feet from water sources.
What's the gnarliest section I should worry about?
The final approach to Blackjack Springs has the worst limestone shelving - expect body damage if you're not careful picking your line through the technical rock gardens.
How deep are the water crossings?
Most crossings are 12-18 inches deep but can vary with spring flow and recent rainfall. The spring-fed streams run year-round so expect at least knee-deep water.