Kettle Moraine State Forest Scuppernong Springs Historic Trail
Glacial landscape and historic mineral springs
The road to Scuppernong Springs winds through some of Wisconsin’s most dramatic glacial landscape, carved by the Green Bay Lobe 15,000 years ago. The 12-mile route follows old logging roads through the Southern Unit of Kettle Moraine State Forest, passing kettle ponds and steep kame hills that rise 200 feet from the surrounding prairie. The trail dead-ends at the historic springs where the Potawatomi gathered for centuries, and later where 1800s settlers built a short-lived resort hoping to capitalize on the mineral water’s supposed healing properties. Foundation stones from the old hotel still mark the spot.
This is easy going that any stock high-clearance vehicle can handle, making it perfect for families or first-time forest road explorers. Spring through fall offers the best conditions, with wildflowers blooming in the prairie openings during May and June. No permits required, and the main Kettle Moraine campground is nearby for overnight stays. The real draw here is the geology lesson — this is textbook glacial terrain that shows you exactly how ice sheets shaped the upper Midwest. Bring a camera and maybe a geology field guide to fully appreciate what you’re seeing.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1180 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Dousman, Wisconsin |
| Land manager | Wisconsin DNR |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Good |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner do this trail?
Absolutely. This is a gravel road suitable for any stock high-clearance vehicle including 4Runners, pickups, and even crossovers.
Is the trail open in winter?
The trail is officially open year-round, but Wisconsin DNR doesn't plow it in winter. Best access is April through October when conditions are reliable.
Do I need permits or pay fees for Kettle Moraine?
Yes, you need a Wisconsin State Park vehicle sticker ($28 annual or $8 daily). No additional permits required for the historic trail itself.
What's the most challenging part of this trail?
There really isn't one - it's genuinely easy driving on maintained gravel roads. The only 'challenge' might be muddy spots after heavy rain.
Are there water crossings I should know about?
Yes, but they're shallow seasonal creek crossings that any vehicle can handle. They're more like puddles than actual water obstacles.