Lauterman National Recreation Trail
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Wisconsin Trail Guide

Trail Facts

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Synopsis

Trail Review

LOCATION

West of Florence, inside the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.

TRAILS

Grooming: Classic only. Multiple loop and point-to-point trail system.
Snowshoe Trails: Yes. Beautiful snowshoe trail! One of the most intimate & scenic in Wisconsin. 2.5 km.

TRAIL NOTES

Intermediate-level classic skiers will find a wonderful variety of terrain and scenery on the Lauterman Trail (5 km) which loops around tiny Lauterman Lake. There are numerous short, steep hills with winding descents and one moderately difficult ascent near the south end of the lake. The surrounding forest is mostly hardwoods except when you are close to the lake. Then you will encounter mixed pines, hemlocks, spruce, and fir, which - in several spots - crowd the trail, where soft pine branches will brush your shoulders as you ski past.

The Lauterman Trail connects with a second loop named the Little Porky Trail, a 4.5 km loop-trail that circles Little Porcupine Lake. A third trail, the "Chipmunk Trail" branches off Little Porky and runs southwest for 3 km to Forest Road 2159 and a second parking area. Both of these trails traverse rolling hills and are considered intermediate. There is a "Beginner's Trail" loop near the trailhead parking lot of the Lauterman Trail.

A separate, and very scenic 2.5 km long snowshoe trail runs along the shores of Lauterman Lake. Highly recommended! The trail has it's own parking area south of the Lauterman trailhead, just follow the signs.

"This trail traverses some hilly terrain and offers good hiking and mountain biking opportunities, as well as being groomed for cross-country skiing (traditional). It includes three loops with one loop for beginning skiers... An added feature is an Adirondack-style shelter that provides a rest or picnic stop for hikers and skiers alike. This trail connects with Perch Lake to the north and the Pine River and Chipmunk Rapids Campground to the south. A trail map is available at the trailhead." _USDA Forest Service

LAND OWNERSHIP

The entire trail system lies within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Florence Ranger District.

FEES

USDA Forest Service Parking Fee
Daily: $5
Annual: $20

FACILITIES

Parking, pit toilets, warming shelter on trail (fire pit).
On-Site Equipment Rentals: No.

IN THE AREA

Motels, food, & gas (Florence).

DIRECTIONS

The main parking area entrance is 1 mile west of Brule on US Highway 2

TRAIL INFORMATION

Website: Lauterman National Recreation Trail
Phone: 715.528.4464 (Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Florence Ranger District HQ)