Less highway. More trail. That’s Oconto County ATV/UTV riding.
When the season opens, Oconto County delivers something harder to find the farther north you go: over 500 miles of fully interconnected ATV and UTV trails without the marathon highway drive. That’s the Oconto County advantage — Northwoods trail riding, close enough to actually do it.
The Trails
Oconto County’s ATV/UTV trail system runs through the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and connects to trail networks in neighboring Marinette, Forest & Langlade counties — and all the way into Michigan for those looking to string together a longer adventure. The system weaves through county forest, state land, and private property whose owners have generously opened their land to riders.
The Nicolet State Trail is the backbone of the system. Starting in Gillett in the southern part of the county, it runs roughly 89 miles northwest through a string of ATV-friendly communities and into the heart of the Nicolet National Forest. It’s the connector that makes the whole network work — use it to access other trail segments or just follow it north and let the scenery change around you.
Terrain varies across the county. Southern trails roll through farmland and mixed forest. Head north and the landscape shifts —
deeper woods, bigger pines, more remote. The trail system has options for beginner riders and experienced ones alike, so you don’t need to be a seasoned trail veteran to have a great day out.
Season: Trails typically open the last Saturday in April and close the first Sunday in November. Dates are subject to change based on weather and trail conditions — always verify before you head out.
Park & Ride Locations
Trailheads are spread across the county so you can stage close to where you want to ride. Here’s where to park in order of Southernmost to Northernmost point:
- Gillett — UTV/ATV parking available in the Fairground parking area.
- Suring — Parking on the north side of Hwy 32 at the ATV/UTV trail.
- Dusty Trails Trailhead — Parking off Hwy 64 and Robenhorst Road. Follow the signs.
- Mountain — Three parking locations: southwest corner of Hwy 32/64 & Hwy W, northwest corner of Hwy 32 & Hwy W, and off Old 32 across from the Oconto County Maintenance Garage.
- Lakewood — Trailhead at the corner of Hwy F and Hwy 32. Restroom facilities available.
- Townsend — Parking available north of the Townsend Fire Department.
The Clubs Behind the Trails
Oconto County’s trail system is made possible by six ATV clubs. They dedicate countless volunteer hours to keep these corridors open, marked, and rideable. When you’re having a great day on the trail, it’s because of these folks.
Red Arrow Snowmobile ATV Club — Townsend area
Crooked Trails ATV Club — Crooked Lake area
Hidden Bear Trail ATV Club — Lakewood / Doty / Riverview area
Dusty Trails ATV Club — Mountain area
Gillett Sno & ATV Riders Inc. — Gillett area
Oconto Area ATV Club — Oconto area
Each club maintains its section of the network and keeps riders informed on conditions, closures, and events throughout the season. Support them when you can — buy a trail pass, volunteer a Saturday, or just say thanks when you meet a club member at a trail stop.
Know Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you trailer up:
Registration: All ATVs and UTVs must be currently registered with the Wisconsin DNR. If you’re riding from out of state, you’ll need a Wisconsin ATV/UTV trail pass.
Stay on marked trails. Many trails cross private property — landowners can and will close access if riders go off-route. Follow the markers, always.
Right side of the trail. Ride to the right, yield to oncoming riders, and at intersections, stop and wait for the rider behind you before proceeding. Don’t let your group get split up at a junction.
Trail maps: Pick up the official Oconto County ATV/UTV Trail & Route System Map. Order a copy ahead of your trip or grab one when you arrive. A virtual version can he found here.
Check trail conditions. Trails can be rerouted, closed temporarily, or have sections under repair. Check the trail report before you go.
[CHECK TRAIL CONDITIONS] | [GET THE TRAIL MAP]
The Trails are Closer Than you Think
Oconto County is less than a full tank of gas round trip from the Fox Cities and Green Bay, and under three hours from Milwaukee. Plus, with many town and county roads open to ATV and UTV travel year-round, Oconto County isn’t just a warm-weather destination — there’s riding to be done no matter the season. You don’t need a long weekend to justify the trip, though once you’re out on the trail, you’ll want to stay.
When the season opens and the trails are calling, Oconto County is ready.
Less highway. More trail.
[CHECK TRAIL CONDITIONS] | [PLAN YOUR STAY] | [EXPLORE COMMUNITIES]