State Forests_Content Page_Brule River Winter

Winter Recreation

Brule River State Forest

Cross-country skiing

Afterhours Ski Trail includes an extensive network of some of the region's finest and best-maintained cross-country ski trails for both classical and skate skiing. Various loops provide a variety of terrain suitable for both beginning skiers and those with advanced skills. The scenic Bois Brule River can be seen from the River and White Pine trails. At the trailhead, visitors will find restroom facilities and a warming shelter jointly maintained by the forest and the Brule Valley Ski Club. View map [PDF]. Either an annual or daily trail pass is required.

Some ski etiquette and rules to keep in mind:

  • skiers should ski within their abilities and alert others when passing, control speed on downhill runs and follow the proper direction of the trail;
  • snowmobiles, ATVs, horses and dogs are prohibited on the trail; and
  • do not walk or snowshoe on ski trails.

The Brule River State Forest works in partnership with the Brule Valley Ski Club on trail improvements and ski events such as the Brule River Timber Cruise and River View Loppet Ski Races, the annual Candlelight Ski and Learn to Ski days.

Snowmobiling and ATVing

Snowmobiling is a popular activity in the state forest, with over 30 miles of designated trail. These trails are important links in the regional snowmobile trail system, connecting communities in Douglas and Bayfield counties. The Brule River Riders Snowmobile Club maintains the forest trails with fees collected from snowmobile registration and trail passes.

The Brule-St. Croix Snowmobile Trail (Trail 27 and 27A) connects the parking area on State Highway 27 to St. Croix Lake. Connecting trails link to the trail systems of Bayfield [exit DNR] and Douglas [exit DNR] counties. Snowmobile registration and trail passes are required; please see the DNR's information on the snowmobile trail pass and regulations.

ATVs may operate on the Brule-St. Croix Snowmobile Trail when it is snow-covered and open to snowmobile use. ATVs are prohibited on all other state-owned lands within the forest, including logging roads. Many town roads within Brule, Highland, Cloverland, Lake Nebagamon and Solon Springs villages and townships are designated ATV routes. Check with local townships and villages for current ordinances.

State law requires those who use Wisconsin ATV trails to display either proof of Wisconsin registration or an ATV trail pass. For more information about operating an ATV in Wisconsin, please visit DNR ATV Laws.