The Ultimate Guide to ATVing in Chippewa County
With summer inching closer, the time to go ATVing or UTVing is officially here! Chippewa County is home to over 23 miles of ATV trails that stretch throughout the Chippewa County Forest, with hills and valleys formed by glaciers thousands of years ago. You’re sure to have a blast, so here’s the ultimate guide to ATVing in Chippewa County.
What You Need to Know
Before you can hit the trails, here are a few things you need to know:
- ATV/UTV Season: The Chippewa County ATV Trails are open for ATV riding from May 1st until the Monday before Wisconsin’s deer gun season each year, unless closed earlier due to an emergency. Stay tuned to the Chippewa Valley ATV Council’s Facebook for updates on trail closures.
- ATV Safety Course: In order to ride on public trails, you must complete an ATV safety course. Information about that can be found on the Wisconsin DNR website. Remember that you must be 12 years or older to operate an ATV and 16 years or older to operate a UTV.
- Buying an ATV/UTV: Obviously, you can’t go ATVing without an ATV. Luckily for you, Airtec Sports in Holcombe is the perfect place to buy ATVs or other motorsport vehicles in Chippewa County. Not only do they carry a great selection of new ATV models, but their employees will be able to answer any questions you may still have about ATVing. Don’t forget to register your ATV with the Wisconsin DNR!
Where to GO
Now that you’re equipped and ready to go, it’s time to start your ATV and UTV adventure. The Chippewa County Forest trails are extensive, so here are some spots to begin your journey.
O’Neil ATV Trailhead
The O’Neil ATV Trailhead off 157th St. in Bloomer is a great place to start your adventure. This trailhead has a free parking lot and takes you down the O’Neil Creek Trail, which eventually leads you to paved routes to ride on. The Hickory Ridge Trail, a scenic trail with countless lakes nearby for you to stop at, splits off near the beginning. The Hickory Ridge Trail runs near the Hay Meadow Flowage Trail, a popular equestrian trail in the forest, so be on the lookout for some beautiful horses walking nearby.
If you follow the Hickory Ridge Trail, it will lead you to our next destination on this ATV adventure!
Bass Lakes ATV Trailhead
The Bass Lakes ATV Trailhead is the connector between the Hickory Ridge Trail and the massive loop through the rest of the Chippewa County Forest. This stop is right next to the Bass Lakes, letting you take a break and enjoy the views. This trailhead has one of two public restrooms in the forest, so be sure to take advantage of it before you start the expedition to our final stop.
County Highway M ATV Trailhead
The County Highway M ATV Trailhead has a restroom and parking lot off Co Hwy M in Holcombe, allowing you start your journey here or arrive after following one of the many trails and routes stemming from the other trailheads. If you have been taking the 23-mile loop thus far, this is roughly the halfway point for your return back to the start. The trailhead being on Co Hwy M means you are a short drive from Holcombe, where you can stop at Ted’s Timber Lodge or the Pine Drive Bar and Grill for a quick bite.
Where to Stay
To make the most of your ATV adventure, staying close to the trails is key. Chippewa County offers a variety of accommodations that provide convenient access to the best riding areas. Here are a few recommended places to stay throughout the county:
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites | Lake Hallie
- Country Villa Motel and Camping | Tilden
- Rock Lake Lodge & Campground | Bloomer
See More
If you want a glimpse of what your ATV adventure could look like, check out this Pocket-Sized Adventure on ATVing in Chippewa County! You can also visit our ATV and UTV page to view county trail maps.
