Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Forest Road 236 Flambeau Trail
Remote Flambeau backcountry logging roads
Forest Road 236 cuts deep into the Chequamegon-Nicolet’s remote backcountry, following old logging spurs that once hauled white pine giants to mills downstream. The main route shadows the North Fork Flambeau River for twelve miles, crossing Sailor Creek twice on narrow timber bridges that’ll make you hold your breath. You’ll navigate around glacial boulders the size of pickup trucks and through stands of second-growth maple that turn the forest floor into a cathedral of gold come October.
This is honest moderate terrain — muddy ruts, occasional washouts, and plenty of low-hanging branches that’ll test your roof rack. A stock high-clearance 4WD handles it fine in dry conditions, but spring runoff turns sections into genuine technical challenges requiring diff locks. Best tackled May through October when the bridges are maintained. No permits needed, dispersed camping allowed anywhere beyond 150 feet of water. What you get is solitude in some of Wisconsin’s last true wilderness, plus brook trout that haven’t seen many anglers.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1680 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Park Falls, Wisconsin |
| Land manager | US Forest Service |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| 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
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need 4WD or can a stock pickup handle Forest Road 236?
You need high-clearance 4WD minimum. The logging roads have deep ruts, loose sand sections, and water crossings that will high-center 2WD vehicles.
Is the Flambeau Trail accessible in early spring or late fall?
Best access is May through October. Spring brings muddy conditions and potential road closures, while winter snow makes the trail impassable.
Do I need permits to camp along Forest Road 236?
No permits required for dispersed camping in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Follow Leave No Trace principles and camp at least 100 feet from water sources.
What's the toughest section of the Flambeau Trail?
The water crossings along the North Fork Flambeau River are the main challenge - scout on foot first as depths vary seasonally and rocky bottoms can catch differentials.
Should I bring extra fuel for the 18-mile Flambeau route?
Carry extra fuel - Park Falls is your last reliable gas stop and you're looking at 36+ miles round trip plus potential detours on unmarked logging spurs.