Copper Falls State Park

Trail Facts

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Synopsis

Trail Review

LOCATION

North of Mellen

Copper Falls State Park
36764 Copper Falls Road
Mellen, WI 54546

TRAILS

Grooming: Classic & skate. Multiple loop trail system.
Snowshoe Trails: Yes. Beautiful trail system along Bad River Gorge.

TRAIL NOTES

Wisconsin established Copper Falls State Park in 1929. In the 1930’s workers from the CCC and the Works Progress Administration built most of the trails, bridges, and buildings that are present today. The log buildings and the railing along the trails add a unique and rustic charm to this historic and scenic park.

During winter, the park offers 19.7 km of groomed cross-country ski trails. All of the trails are tracked for classic and 10.5 km are also groomed for skate. There are plenty of trails here to suit all ability levels making this a great family or group destination. Snow conditions are often excellent as the park benefits from its location inside the Lake Superior snow belt. Grooming is regular and timely.

The trails meander through a gorgeous, mature hardwood forest with scattered stands of tall pines, along with occasional spruce and balsam fir. One of the trails – Takesson - features several scenic views of the Bad River.

Copper Falls State Park provides some of the most scenic snowshoe trails in Wisconsin. In winter, the river gorge and the main falls: Copper, Brownstone, and the Cascades can be viewed from the short Purple Trail loop. The trail is rolled on a regular basis for snowshoers and hikers. Cross the bridge and snowshoe the North Country National Scenic Trail for a ways if you’re feeling adventurous. The 4 km long Red Granite Trail is also rolled during winter and provides access to the scenic Red Granite Falls.

LAND OWNERSHIP

The entire trail system lies within the Copper Falls State Park, WI DNR

FEES

Wisconsin DNR Vehicle Admission Sticker Required
WI License Plate Daily: $8
WI License Plate Annual: $28
Out-of-State Daily: $13
Out-of-State Annual: $38

FACILITIES

Parking, water, pit toilets
On-Site Equipment Rentals: No

IN THE AREA

resorts, food, gas (Mellen), Motels, food, gas, retail sporting goods (Ashland, Hurley)

DIRECTIONS

On Highway 13 at the north end of Mellen, turn east onto WI 169/Copper Falls Drive and drive for 1.6 miles, then turn west onto Copper Falls Road. Follow Copper Falls Rd to the State Park HQ.

TRAIL INFORMATION

Website: Copper Falls State Park
Phone: 715.274.5123 (Copper Falls State Park)