I recently met with Mike Brown with the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest to talk about the future of motorized recreation in the area, particularly the loss of the Pipeline 4×4 Challenge Trail (FR 52222) in 2023.
The trail is being impacted by ANR’s proposed Northwoods Pipeline project, a major new pipeline that will generally follow the existing pipeline corridor through the National Forest. Unfortunately, construction will mean the loss of the Pipeline Challenge Trail forever.
But we’re looking at this as an opportunity to work with the Forest Service rather than simply accept the loss of a valuable recreation resource.
Our goal is to explore a replacement for the Pipeline Challenge Trail while also looking at the bigger picture: creating legal, sustainable overland routes that could connect new play areas, challenge trails and other destinations throughout the forest.
There is a long process ahead involving the Forest Service, environmental review, route planning and ultimately questions of who will help maintain these trails. That’s where partnerships with the motorized recreation community could become especially important.
This is very early in the conversation, but it’s an exciting opportunity. I’ll continue sharing updates as we learn more and as opportunities arise for the overland and 4×4 community to get involved. If you want updates from us- please make sure you are subscribed to our free, digital magazine (signup form at the bottom of our home page) and join the Wisconsin Overland group on facebook.
