Wild Rivers State Forest Yellow Birch Trail
Golden birch cathedral on old railroad grade.
The Yellow Birch Trail traces the abandoned grade of the Tote Road Railway, where steam locomotives once hauled massive white pines to Wisconsin River sawmills. Today this gentle forest road winds through cathedral groves of paper birch and towering yellow birch, their golden leaves creating a canopy so thick that rain never reaches the forest floor. The route passes abandoned logging camps, rusted railroad spikes still visible in the hardpack, and crosses dozens of beaver dams where industrious rodents have reclaimed their ancient territory.
Easy difficulty makes this accessible to high-clearance vehicles, though spring thaw can leave soft spots that’ll swallow a tire. Stock SUVs handle it fine during dry conditions from June through October. No permits required for day use, but overnight camping needs advance registration with the forest office. Bring mosquito netting and patience — this is slow travel through country that rewards contemplation over speed. Perfect introduction to Wisconsin’s northern forests.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 15 mi / 24.1 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1180 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Grantsburg, Wisconsin |
| Land manager | Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| 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
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Frequently asked questions
Can my stock SUV handle the Yellow Birch Trail?
Yes, any high-clearance 2WD vehicle can handle this trail. It's maintained gravel on an old railroad grade, so the surface is relatively smooth without major obstacles.
Is the trail accessible in winter?
No, the trail is best June through October when snow doesn't block access and the birch leaves provide the golden cathedral effect. Winter conditions make the remote gravel road impassable for most vehicles.
Do I need permits or pay fees to drive the Yellow Birch Trail?
No permits or fees required. This is a Wisconsin DNR forest road open to public vehicle access during the season.
What's the most challenging part of this easy trail?
The trail is genuinely easy with only 320 feet of elevation gain, but watch for soft spots near beaver pond areas where the gravel may be muddy after rain.
Can I find dispersed camping along the route and will I have cell service?
Yes, dispersed camping is allowed in the state forest, but cell service is spotty throughout the 15-mile route. Download offline maps and let someone know your plans.