The ATV and UTV trail system in Oconto County, Wisconsin is one of the largest and most versatile riding networks in the state. With more than 450 miles of trails and routes, riders can travel through forest roads, small towns, scenic stretches of the Northwoods, and a number of places worth stopping along the way.
If you want a trail system that offers more than just riding from one mud hole to the next, Oconto County is a fun place to explore. Depending on where you go, you can mix trail riding with scenic overlooks, river crossings, small-town stops, seasonal events, and a few memorable side trips.
General Information
| Location | Oconto County ATV / UTV Trail System |
| County | Florence, Forest, and Marinette County trail systems, plus access to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula |
| State | Wisconsin |
| Trail Mileage | Over 450 miles of trails and routes |
| Season | Last Saturday of April through the first Sunday of November, weather permitting |
| Best For | Forest riding, scenic stops, mudding areas, day rides, and multi-county ATV / UTV trips |
| Connects To | Florence, Forest, and Marinette County trail systems, plus access toward Michigan’s Upper Peninsula |
| Main Trail Areas | Lakewood, Townsend, Mountain, Gillett, and surrounding Northwoods communities |
| Trail Map | Official Oconto County ATV / UTV Trail Map |
| Wisconsin Rules | Wisconsin ATV / UTV Regulations |
| Nonresident Trail Pass | Wisconsin Nonresident ATV / UTV Trail Pass Information |
Why Ride Oconto County
You just cannot beat Oconto County if you want a large Wisconsin trail system with variety. Some sections are better for easy scenic riding, while others are more fun after rain or during spring and fall when conditions change, and the landscape feels more rugged.
One of the best things about this trail network is that it does not feel limited to one small loop. You can build a ride around food stops, scenic locations, small communities, or just hours of trail time through the woods.
Trailheads and Maps
There are several places riders commonly enter the Oconto County system, including trail areas around Lakewood, Mountain, and Gillett. Because routes, town roads, and local access rules can change, I always recommend using the current official map before heading out.
A printed map is still one of the smartest things to bring with you. Cell service can be unreliable in some areas, and a paper map makes it easier to plan fuel stops, trail connections, and return routes before you leave the parking lot.
- View the current official Oconto County trail map
- Print a copy before you leave home if you plan to ride all day.
- Screenshot key trailhead and route information in case service drops.
- Pay attention to local route signage where trails enter towns and road sections.
Things to Do Along the Way
Besides the usual food and drink stops, Oconto County gives riders quite a few ways to turn a trail day into more of an outing. Depending on the season, you may run into community festivals, poker runs, craft fairs, races, and small local events in places like Lakewood, Townsend, Mountain, Doty, and Riverview.
If you enjoy mixing riding with scenic stops, this is the kind of trail system where you can spend the day doing more than just riding from trail marker to trail marker.
Fun Stops and Side Trips
1. Mudding on the Pipeline
One of the more well-known muddy sections riders talk about is the Pipeline area near the Dusty Trails section by Lakewood. What many people call “the pipeline” is more like a sandy road corridor with mud holes off to the side rather than a single designated trail obstacle.
If you want to play in the mud, always stop and check the depth before driving into any hole. Some get much deeper than they appear, especially after heavy rain. It is much better to get your boots dirty first than bury a machine over the roofline.
Pipeline Video
Yep, I scream like a little girl. I took the brunt of the mud that day. I do not always share the mudding clips because they may tarnish the halo I pretend to have over my head, but this one was too good not to include.
2. Hike Up Butler Rock
If you want to add a little scenery to your ride, head toward the Town of Brazeau near Mountain and make the short hike up to Butler Rock. It is one of those stops that breaks up a day of riding and gives you a rewarding view out over the surrounding area.
3. Climb Mountain Fire Lookout Tower
The Mountain Fire Lookout Tower is another great stop if you are riding near Mountain. Climb 132 steps and stand 100 feet above the forest for a sweeping Northwoods view.
4. Scenic Stops Along the Rivers and Forest Roads
Not every good stop needs to be a big attraction. Some of the nicest parts of riding in Oconto County are the quieter stretches: wooded roads, little bridges, marsh edges, river crossings, and the changing forest in fall.
If you like mixing photography and sightseeing in your ride, give yourself enough time to stop often. That is where some of the best moments happen.
What to Bring
- A printed map or downloaded route information
- Water and snacks for a full-day ride
- Rain gear or an extra layer
- Basic tools and a tow strap
- A charged phone and backup battery
- Eye protection and gear for muddy conditions
Even if you are only planning a casual ride, a few basics can make a big difference if the weather changes or you end up farther from your starting point than expected.
Know Before You Go
- Stay on marked trails, preferred routes, and legal township roads only.
- Trail and municipal route rules can change, so check current maps and local signage.
- Wisconsin registration and nonresident pass rules apply.
- Fuel up before longer rides and know where your next stop will be.
- Respect towns, private property, and trail conditions so the system stays open and enjoyable.
More Images
Explore More Wisconsin Trails
Langlade County ATV Trails – We parked at the Parrish Highlands trailhead to ride scenic forest trails that pass glacial moraines, hardwoods, cedar swamps, and Northwoods lakes.
Lake of the Falls, Mercer, WI – A beautiful Northwoods stop with campground access, fishing, and nearby ATV trail riding.