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| Topo map of Tri-County Corridor Trail near Amnicon Falls State Park. |
Tri-County Trail
segment runs
1.2 miles in woods
A pleasant woodland walk that includes a bridge over a rapids-filled river awaits day hikers on a segment of the Tri-County Corridor Trail in northern Wisconsin.
The former Burlington Northern Railroad railbed turned hiking trail connects Superior to Ashland, covering 61.8 miles. As much of the trail parallels busy U.S. Hwy. 2, it’s not the quietest of routes. An exception is a 1.2-miles round trip segment that skirts the southern edge of Amnicon Falls State Park from its west to east borders.
To reach that trailhead, take U.S. Hwy. 2 east from Superior. Turn left/north onto County Road U then take the very first left/west into Charlie’s Riverside. Park on Charlie’s backside; a connector to the main trail runs north from the lot. Upon reaching the main trail, go left/west.
The trail is mostly wooded with a good mix of evergreens and birch dominating.
The trail’s highlight is the old railroad bridge crossing the Amnicon River, which flows north through Amnicon Falls State Park on its way to Lake Superior. The river’s rocky shores and bottom make for a number of small rapids. The trail later crosses a creek that feeds the river.
As walking, keep an eye out for whitetail deer, fox, porcupine and other small mammals. Since the woodlands that the trail heads through joins the state park, there’s a vast area for wildlife to flourish.
The trail opened in 1987. As a former rail bed, the trail is wide with a surface of crushed limestone.
Kellog Road marks a good spot to turn back.
The trail is open to horseriding and bicycling as well as ATVs. Be aware that it sometimes is referred to on brochures and websites as the Tri-County Recreational Corridor.
Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.
