Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Brule River Portage Historic Route
Ancient voyageur portage through boreal wilderness
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.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1280 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Solon Springs, Wisconsin |
| Land manager | Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest |
| 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 Cherokee or 4Runner handle this trail?
Yes, any stock 4WD vehicle with decent ground clearance will handle this route fine. The mixed surfaces and moderate difficulty don't require aggressive modifications.
Is the trail accessible in early spring or late fall?
Best to stick with June through September when water crossings are manageable and muddy sections have dried out. Spring melt and fall rains can make creek crossings sketchy.
Do I need permits or pay fees to drive this historic route?
No permits or fees required since it runs through Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Just follow standard forest service rules for dispersed camping and fire restrictions.
What's the gnarliest part of this 18-mile route?
The water crossings can get interesting depending on recent rainfall, but nothing too technical. Mostly it's just committing to a full day in remote country with zero cell service.
Can I find good dispersed camping spots along the portage route?
Plenty of dispersed camping opportunities throughout the national forest, especially near water sources. Just camp 100+ feet from water and follow Leave No Trace principles.