The Parrish Highlands ATV/UTV Trail system in Langlade County, Wisconsin is one of the larger riding areas in the region, offering scenic forest roads, rolling glacial terrain, wetlands, and miles of Northwoods riding. Riders can explore about 50 miles of trail within the Parrish Highlands area, with connections to neighboring county trail systems.
If you enjoy long trail networks through northern Wisconsin forests, this area is worth knowing about. The Parrish Highlands system links with neighboring counties, making it easy to turn a single ride into a much larger weekend adventure.
Parrish Highlands Visitor Guide
| Location | Parrish Highlands Trail Area near Summit Lake |
| Town | Parrish |
| County | Langlade County |
| State | Wisconsin |
| Trail Length | About 50 miles in the Parrish Highlands trail area |
| Trail Type | Forest roads, rolling hills, glacial terrain, wetlands, and mixed woods |
| Connects To | Oneida County and Lincoln County trail systems |
| Main Trailhead Used | County T trailhead near Summit Lake |
| Trailhead Amenities | Parking, pit toilets, ATV wash station, and ATV ramp |
| Google Map | View Trailhead Map |
| Trail Map | Official Langlade County Trail Map |
| Best For | ATV and UTV riders looking for a day ride or multi-county trail weekend |
| Bring Along | Printed map, basic repair gear, water, and weather layers |
General Information
The Parrish Highlands trail area is known for glacial moraines, upland hardwoods, cedar swamps, and small rivers and lakes. The terrain ranges from rolling to fairly hilly in places, which helps keep the ride interesting and scenic.
One of the nicest things about this area is how much riding you can do without feeling boxed into a short loop. Since the trail system connects to neighboring counties, it can work for anything from a single morning ride to a full weekend trip.
| State | Wisconsin |
| County | Langlade County |
| Map | Official Parrish Highlands Trail Map |
| Trailhead Used | County T Trailhead |
| Wisconsin Rules | Wisconsin ATV/UTV Information |
| Nonresident Pass Info | Annual or 5-Day Nonresident Trail Pass |
Trail Passes
One of the most common questions riders ask is whether there is a fee to ride the trails. In Wisconsin, ATV and UTV riders need to follow current registration and trail pass requirements, so it is worth checking the Wisconsin DNR rules before heading out.
- If your machine is not registered for Wisconsin public use, check current nonresident trail pass options before your trip.
- Bring proof of registration or trail pass information with you.
- Trail and access dates can change with conditions, so it is smart to verify status before leaving home.
- When in doubt, use the official county trail map and Wisconsin DNR resources above.
Parking
We parked at the County T trailhead in Parrish, Wisconsin, in the northwestern part of Langlade County. Parking was easy, and the gravel lot felt generously sized, even with trailers and plenty of room to maneuver.
If you are hauling a machine, it is a comfortable trailhead to start from and one that feels well set up for riders.
Bathroom
There are pit toilets on site, which is always a welcome convenience at a trailhead, especially before a long ride or when changing out of muddy gear at the end of the day.
ATV Wash Station
One of the standout features at this trailhead is the ATV wash station. You can pull up onto the grate and rinse your machine off after your ride. It is a thoughtful addition and especially helpful after muddy conditions.
It also helps encourage riders to clean equipment before and after use, which is a smart habit when moving between trail systems.
What the Ride Feels Like
The Parrish Highlands area feels very Northwoods: mixed forest, wet low areas, rolling glacial terrain, and long stretches where you can simply ride and take in the scenery. In fall, that mix of hardwoods and lowland areas makes it especially scenic.
If you enjoy trails that feel varied rather than repetitive, this system has a lot going for it.
Images From the Area
View of the Trail
Know Where You’re Going
I always recommend bringing a printed trail map with you. Apps and online maps are helpful, but they do not do much good if your phone battery runs low or service becomes unreliable in the woods.
A paper map, a quick plan for your route, and a rough idea of fuel range can save you a lot of frustration later in the day.
- Print the official map before leaving home.
- Screenshot key trailhead information in case service drops.
- Tell someone your general route if riding a long day.
- Keep an eye on daylight, especially in fall.
Helpful Trail Gear
These are the kinds of items that make a real difference when something goes wrong on the trail.
Recovery and Repair
- Tow strap or recovery rope
- Tire plug kit
- Portable air compressor
- Basic hand tools
- Zip ties and duct tape
A tow strap and tire repair kit can turn a bad day into a fixable inconvenience. These are especially helpful if you ride often or head far from the trailhead.
Safety and Convenience
- Portable jump starter
- Charged phone and backup battery
- Water and snacks
- Work gloves
- Rain layer or extra jacket
A portable jump starter is one of those items you may not need often, but when you do, you will be very glad you packed it. It is also useful for charging phones and small devices.
Trail Etiquette
One useful thing to remember about county forest systems like this is that they are shared spaces. Riding respectfully helps keep trails open and enjoyable for everyone.
- Stay on designated routes.
- Slow down near trailheads, road crossings, and other riders.
- Pack out trash.
- Avoid unnecessary spinning or rutting in wet areas.
- Wash machines before and after riding when possible.
Camping Near the Trails
If you want to spend more than one day riding, camping is a good way to stretch the trip without spending a fortune. There are several campground options in the broader Langlade County area, and some riders use them as a base for multiple days on the trail network.
Before booking, it is worth checking whether a campground offers direct trail access or if you will need to trailer to a trailhead.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend a day exploring the Parrish Highlands trail area or turn it into a longer riding trip, it is easy to see why riders like this part of Langlade County. The scenery is varied, the trailhead amenities are useful, and the connections to other systems make it a strong choice for a full weekend of riding.
Go have fun, ride prepared, and enjoy the Northwoods.
Additional Posts
Lake of the Falls, Mercer, WI – This park offers campgrounds, ATV trails with direct campsite access, fishing, and a beautiful Northwoods setting.
Black Hills National Forest – We rented an ATV to explore the Black Hills in South Dakota, and it turned into one of those rides that makes you want more mountain trail time.