Things to Do in Black River State Forest

Black River State Forest is known for its diverse landscape, including 68,000 acres of pine and oak woodlands. It features unique geological formations such as 300-foot-high glacial mounds, sandstone abutments, and castellated bluffs like Castle Mound. The forest lies at the edge of Wisconsin's glaciated central plain and the unglaciated Driftless Area, offering varied terrain.

The primary outdoor activity in Black River State Forest is hiking, with numerous trails winding through woodlands and leading to scenic overlooks. The two forks of the Black River also provide opportunities for canoeing and fishing. The forest is managed for wildlife, offering viewing opportunities.

Yes, Black River State Forest offers many hiking trails. These include nature trails at Pigeon Creek, Castle Mound, Perry Creek, and East Fork campgrounds. The Wildcat and Smrekar trailheads provide more than 24 miles (38 km) of multi-use trails with interconnected loops.

Yes, Black River State Forest has trails suitable for various skill levels, including easier options. Nature trails at campgrounds often provide accessible routes. For more information on less strenuous paths, refer to the komoot guide Easy hikes in Black River State Forest.

The forest features 300-foot-high glacial mounds and dramatic sandstone formations, including unglaciated buttes and castellated bluffs. These are remnants of eroded Cambrian sandstone. From overlooks like Castle Mound, visitors can see what was once the bed of ancient Glacial Lake Wisconsin.

Black River State Forest is a haven for wildlife, including endangered and threatened species. Visitors might observe bald eagles, ospreys, and the Karner blue butterfly. The forest is also home to eastern timber wolves and reintroduced elk populations.

Information on hiking routes, including descriptions and details, can be found on komoot. A comprehensive resource is the guide Hiking in Black River State Forest. This guide provides an overview of available trails and their characteristics.

Dike 17 Wildlife Area is a significant 3,700-acre section within Black River State Forest. It is primarily managed for waterfowl and includes a 2,100-acre wildlife refuge. This area contributes to the forest's ecological richness and supports diverse bird populations.

Routes in Black River State Forest have an average rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars on komoot. This rating is based on feedback from more than 50 visitors who have explored the area's trails.

There are 3 hiking routes currently available for Black River State Forest on komoot. These routes offer various experiences for hikers, from easy walks to more challenging climbs.

The official website for Black River State Forest is part of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. It can be accessed at dnr.wi.gov/topic/StateForests/blackRiver/.

The phone number for Black River State Forest is +1-715-284-4103. This number can be used for inquiries regarding forest information, permits, or current conditions.