Recreation
Saunders State Trail
The trail may bring a number of different users to the trail at the same time. It is important to use good trail etiquette to ensure the enjoyment and safety of all trail users.
Horseback riding
The entire trail is open to horseback riding. The trail is not groomed or surfaced and may be rough or soft in many sections. Riders must share the trail with motorized vehicles.
Motorized vehicles
All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are allowed on the trail year-round. Operators must follow all Wisconsin ATV operation laws. The trail also connects to the Gandy Dancer State Trail and other Douglas County ATV routes.
The Saunders State Trail corridor continues into Minnesota and is maintained and operated by the Minnesota DNR as an ATV trail known as the Soo Line South ATV Trail [exit DNR].
Walking and bicycling
The entire trail is open to walking and bicycling, though bicycling is not recommended. The trail may be rough or soft in many sections. If you plan to bike the trail, the tread is more suitable for off-road bikes.
Pet owners, please be sure to have your pet on a leash, 8 feet or shorter, at all times. You must pick up after your pet.
Winter activities
Snowmobiles are permitted on the trail. Operators must follow all Wisconsin snowmobile laws. The trail also connects to numerous miles of county snowmobile trails.
The opening and closing of snowmobile trails are at the discretion of each county. Snowmobile trails that cross DNR lands are opened and closed consistent with the surrounding county (or counties). Whenever possible, the opening and closing of snowmobile trails are done on a county-wide basis, however, localized conditions may require localized trail opening and closing. It is the responsibility of the county to provide notification about the status of snowmobile trails.
The Travel Wisconsin Snow Conditions Report [exit DNR], and local club and county snowmobile webpages [exit DNR] and telephone hotlines will provide the most current information.
The trail is open to walking, bicycling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, however, the trail is not groomed and users must share the trail with snowmobiles. Skiers do not need a trail pass while using the trail.
No Hunting and trapping allowed on trail
Hunting and trapping are not allowed on the trail corridor. For more information, please see: