Chequamegon National Forest Forest Road 106 Penokee Hills Loop

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.