Overview
The North Highland Trail covers 8 miles out and back through the Rhinelander-area portion of the Nicolet unit of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The Nicolet portion of the forest sees less recreational traffic than the Chequamegon side around Cable and Hayward, and this trail in particular offers a quieter northwoods experience with genuine solitude even on summer weekends.
The trail connects a series of glacial lakes through rolling northwoods terrain. The lakes here are generally smaller and less developed than those in the lake resort towns to the north no private docks, no motorboat noise and the forest presses close to the water. This is the kind of northwoods experience that rewards slower movement: taking a long break at a lake, watching an osprey hunt, listening for the rattle of a kingfisher along the shore.
At 400 feet of elevation gain over 8 miles, the trail earns an easy-moderate rating primarily because of the cumulative effort of the short climbs between lake basins. Each individual climb is modest, but they add up over the course of the route. Most hikers in reasonable shape will find this an accessible half-day trip.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2: From the Forest Road 2182 trailhead, the trail heads east into a mixed forest of red maple, yellow birch, and spruce. The first lake, a small unnamed kettle, is visible from a short spur around mile 1.5. The trail climbs gently between basins.
Miles 2 to 4: The trail reaches a larger unnamed lake around mile 3. A flat, open area near the north shore makes a good rest stop or lunch spot. Loons are present on this lake in summer. The trail continues east through denser boreal forest with more fir and spruce before reaching the turnaround point near a forest road crossing at mile 4.
Miles 4 to 8 (return): The return trip follows the same route. The western light in the afternoon hours creates different views of the lakes on the way back, particularly in fall.
When to Visit
Late June through September is the main hiking season. Insect pressure near the lakes can be significant in June and early July; head nets and repellent help. Late September and October offer the best combination of comfortable temperatures, fall color, and minimal bugs.
Winter brings substantial snowpack to this area typically 80-100 inches annually and snowshoe trips on ungroomed sections of the trail are possible from December through March. Check conditions with the Rhinelander Ranger District before visiting.
What to Bring
- Many hikers carry 1.5 liters of water for this length of trail. Lake water is available if treated. Individual needs vary.
- Insect repellent: especially important near the lakes in June and early July
- Trekking poles helpful on the short climbs between lake basins when wet
- A map or downloaded trail file; cell service is unreliable
- Blaze orange during hunting seasons (September through November)
Practical Details
No facilities at the trailhead. Dispersed camping is permitted. Follow Leave No Trace principles. No permit required. Bears are present; follow proper food storage practices for overnight trips.
See the national forest camping guide for general dispersed camping rules.
Getting There
From Rhinelander, Wisconsin, take US-8 west approximately 10 miles to Forest Road 2182. Turn north on FR-2182 and follow it approximately 2 miles to the trailhead parking area. Rhinelander is on US-8 at the junction with US-51, approximately 140 miles north of Madison. GPS coordinates are approximately 45.65°N, 89.20°W.