Flambeau River State Forest Sand Lake Logging Road
Original logging road through Wisconsin's timber legacy
This old logging road follows the route timber crews used to haul white pine giants out of the Flambeau River State Forest back when Wisconsin fed lumber to half the Midwest. The road winds past Sand Lake and through some of the few old-growth stands that survived the cut, with massive hemlocks that’ll make you understand what the loggers were after. The real test comes at Cedar Creek where the original corduroy road remains — logs laid crosswise that’ll rattle your teeth and test your clearance.
Difficulty sits between moderate and difficult depending on recent rains and your willingness to drag belly pan. A stock Jeep or similar with decent tires handles it, but low-slung trucks might scrape. Best tackled June through September when creek levels drop. No fees, but Wisconsin state forest vehicle sticker required. The payoff is excellent muskie fishing on the Flambeau, primitive camping spots, and walking among trees that were seedlings when the Civil War ended.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1420 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Park Falls, Wisconsin |
| Land manager | Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner handle this trail?
Yes, a stock 4WD with high clearance will make it through fine. The moderate rating reflects some rocky sections and creek crossings, but nothing that requires significant modifications.
Is the trail passable in early spring or late fall?
Stick to June through September for best conditions. Spring brings mud from snowmelt and fall rains can make creek crossings dicey, plus hunting season brings heavy traffic.
Do I need permits or is there an entrance fee?
No permits or fees required since it's Wisconsin state forest land. Just follow standard dispersed camping rules and pack out what you pack in.
How challenging are the creek crossings?
The water crossings are the main difficulty - expect 2-3 creek fords that can be knee-deep after rain. Take your time, walk them first, and avoid during heavy runoff periods.
Can I find good dispersed camping spots along the 18-mile route?
Yes, several clearing areas work for camping, especially near the historic logging sites. Cell service is spotty throughout, so download offline maps and let someone know your plans.