Franklin Nature Trail

Interpretive Trail

Franklin Nature Trail Gallery
1.0 Miles
Distance
Very Easy
Difficulty
Minimal
Elevation Gain
Dirt path
Trail Surface

The Franklin Nature Trail is a mile-long, interpretive loop-trail through a forest of hardwoods, white pines, and shady stands of tall hemlocks. You will also find a scenic view of Butternut Lake, several historical sites and a winding 400 foot-long boardwalk through a tamarack and spruce bog.

Map (PDF) Booklet (PDF)

The forest understory is home to a wide diversity of plant life, including Bluebead Lilly, Bunchberry, Lilly-of-the-Valley, Starflower, Jewel-Weed, Jack-in-the-Pulpit and dense patches of ferns. The scenic boardwalk through the bog is surrounded by a carpet of sphagnum moss under a canopy of tamarack and spruce. Bog plants include Leatherleaf, Bog Laurel, Bog Rosemary, Pitcher Plant and Rosemary Tea.

This area has a rich cultural history. Native Americans have camped, hunted, and fished here periodically since about 8,000 BC. Archeologists have discovered several ancient sites scattered around Butternut Lake.

There is a free 16-page booklet at the trailhead information-kiosk that gives a narrative of 21 numbered "stations" on the trail. The booklet provides excellent descriptions of the surrounding habitat and of the cultural history of the area. Overall, this is a short, fun and relaxing hike, suitable for almost anyone.

Map Booklet
Recreation & Attractions

Franklin Nature Trail
Interpretive trail, hemlock forest, spruce-tamarack bog, scenic lakes, historic & cultural sites

Franklin Lake Recreation Area
Camping (tent & RV/trailer), hiking, shaded picnic area, Franklin Lake (swimming beach, paddle sports, boating, fishing), Historic POI, naturalist programs

Amenities

Franklin Nature Trail
Information kiosk, parking area, accessible vault toilets, disabled access trail loop.

Franklin Lake Recreation Area
Franklin Lake Campground (75 non-electric campsites), swimming beach (Franklin Lake), drinking water (electric well & hand-pump), restrooms (running water, accessible flush toilets), vault toilets, picnic area (tables, grills, shelter), nature center, boat landing, garbage & recycling

Managing Agency & Fees
  • US Forest Service
  •  
  • Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
  • Eagle River-Florence Ranger District
  • 1247 E. Wall St.
  • Eagle River, WI 54521
  •  
  • Phone: 715.479.2827
  • Official Website: Franklin Nature Trail
  •  
  • Permit / Access Fee: Yes
  • Daily Pass: Just visiting for the day? The Forest provides payment envelopes on site where day-use fees are required. Simply write your information on an envelope, enclose your payment, and drop the envelope in the payment box. Make sure to reserve the perforated tag for display in your vehicle.

  • Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Annual Sticker: An annual sticker provides year-round access to day-use sites on the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. A sticker is valid from April 1 to March 31 of the following year.

  • Interagency Pass: Honored nationwide at all Forest Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and US Fish & Wildlife Service sites charging entrance or standard amenity fees
Nearby Trails & Places

Five non-motorized lakes are close by that offer enjoyable paddling experiences: Luna Lake, White Deer Lake, Three Johns Lake, McKinley Lake, and Quartz Lake. Paddle in the early mornings or late afternoons and listen for the loon calls.

Anglers will find abundant walleye, bass and panfish in Franklin Lake and Butternut Lake. The closest public boat landing for Butternut Lake is on the south shore, a 4.5-mile drive from the Franklin Lake Campground. Dozens of lakes to the west and southwest also feature excellent fishing.