American Legion State Forest Nebish Lake Logging Road
Remote Northwoods fire road with technical creek crossings
This forgotten fire access road cuts deep into the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest’s most remote section, threading between Nebish Lake and a maze of unnamed beaver ponds. The 18-mile route starts innocuously from Highway 70 near Minocqua, but quickly deteriorates into a genuine backcountry challenge as it crosses three substantial creek beds and navigates around blowdown from recent storms. The highlight is the technical descent to Nebish Lake’s northwest shore, where granite outcroppings force drivers to pick their line carefully through a boulder garden that’s claimed more than one oil pan.
Moderate to difficult depending on recent weather — spring runoff makes those creek crossings serious business. You’ll need real 4WD with skid plates and good ground clearance; this isn’t a place for stock pickups. Best tackled June through October when water levels drop and the worst mud firms up. No permits required, but fuel up in Minocqua because there’s nothing out here. Multiple primitive camping spots dot the route, and if you make it to Nebish Lake, you’ve earned one of Wisconsin’s most isolated bass fishing holes.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1720 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | 4WD with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Minocqua, Wisconsin |
| Land manager | Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources |
| 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
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle the creek crossings on this trail?
Yes, but you'll want skid plates and recovery gear. The creek crossings have rocky bottoms and can be 18-24 inches deep depending on recent rainfall.
Is this trail accessible in early spring or late fall?
Best avoided March-May due to mud season and hunting closures. October can work but watch for early snow and frozen ground conditions.
Do I need any permits or fees to drive this logging road?
No permits required for the trail itself, but you need a Wisconsin State Forest vehicle admission sticker if parking at official trailheads.
What's the most challenging section of this route?
Mile 12 has a steep rocky descent followed immediately by the deepest creek crossing. Take it slow and scout the water depth on foot first.
Can I camp anywhere along this trail or are there designated spots?
Dispersed camping is allowed throughout American Legion State Forest as long as you're 100 feet from water sources and trails. Several established fire rings exist near Nebish Lake.