Brule to St. Croix Portage Trail

The trail is located within the Brule River State Forest. You can typically find parking at designated trailheads along the route. Specific parking areas are usually well-marked at the start of the portage trail sections.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trail. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Please remember to pack out any waste.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring, summer, and fall offer distinct experiences. Spring brings fresh growth and active wildlife, summer is ideal for longer days, and fall showcases beautiful autumn foliage. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for snow and ice conditions.

As the trail is located within the Brule River State Forest, you may need a Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker for parking. Check the Wisconsin DNR website for current fee information. No specific hiking permits are typically required for the trail itself.

The trail is primarily a single-track footpath. You'll encounter a well-worn path with an initial steep climb, followed by a more gradual ascent. It features scenic bluff tops, pine flats, and a notable boardwalk crossing a cedar bog at the headwaters of the Bois Brule and St. Croix rivers.

While some sources describe it as easy, the trail is generally considered to be of moderate difficulty. It includes some brief inclines and steep slopes, particularly at the beginning, which require a reasonable level of fitness. The total distance is approximately 3.4 km (2.1 miles) one way, often hiked as a 4-mile out-and-back route.

This trail is a National Register of Historic Landmarks site, serving for centuries as a vital trade route connecting Lake Superior and the Mississippi River. Native Americans, explorers, traders, and missionaries all utilized this portage. You'll find eight dedication stones along the way commemorating its rich history.

Yes, a significant portion of this route is also a designated section of the North Country National Scenic Trail (WI) and the North Country Trail. This makes it part of an ambitious project aiming to become the longest continuous hiking path in America.

The trail is primarily an out-and-back route. While its length is about 1.9 to 2.3 miles one way, many hikers choose to complete it as a roughly 4-mile round trip.

Absolutely! Keep an eye out for scenic bluff tops, pine flats, and the unique cedar bog boardwalk at the headwaters of the Bois Brule and St. Croix rivers. You'll also catch glimpses of the Bois Brule River's headwaters, which appear as a small creek lined with water birch bushes.

The Brule River State Forest is a beautiful natural area in Wisconsin, offering various recreational opportunities beyond this trail. It's known for its pristine river, diverse ecosystems, and historical significance. Remember to follow all state forest regulations, including those regarding campfires, waste disposal, and wildlife viewing.