Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Brule River Portage Historic Route

This 18-mile route traces the historic portage between the Brule and St. Croix river systems, the same path used by French voyageurs and Ojibwe traders for centuries. Forest Roads 2142 and 2178 connect through dense boreal forest punctuated by beaver ponds and granite outcroppings, with the actual portage trail crossing at Judge C.R. Magney State Park boundary. The route includes technical rocky sections near Solon Springs and several creek fords that can run deep during spring snowmelt.

Moderate difficulty with some challenging rocky climbs and water crossings that demand good ground clearance and 4WD capability. Stock 4WD trucks handle it well, but aggressive tires help on the granite slabs. Open year-round but best from June through September when water levels are manageable and forest roads aren’t gated for logging operations. No permits required for the Wisconsin portion, but parking at trailheads fills fast during peak fall colors. Primitive camping available at designated forest service sites, though most overlanders prefer the established campgrounds at Pattison State Park nearby.