Devil’s River State Trail
Devil’s River State Trail is a scenic rail-to-trail path in Brown and Manitowoc Counties. In northeast Wisconsin, this 14.5-mile route journeys from Denmark through Maribel and Francis Creek before ending at Rockwood Road. The trail features two dramatic railroad bridges across Devil’s River and Francis Creek. Farmland, prairies, and wetlands surround the trail, and a tree corridor lines much of the path, providing shade.
As the trail journeys south from Denmark to Rockwood Road, it drops in elevation nearly 200 feet. Denmark hosts a well-equipped trailhead, and Maribel has a park near the trail. In good condition, the trail surface is crushed limestone. The path wide enough to enable two bicyclists riding side by side. Benches are placed along the route, and distance markers are placed every quarter mile. At intersections, road names are clearly labeled.
The Devil’s River State Trail is a great option for bird watchers and nature lovers. Various bird and wildlife species are often seen from the trail, and trail-goers may want to bring binoculars. They should also bring insect repellent and sunscreen. Most of the trail passes through open landscapes, and when the tree corridor doesn’t shade the trail, it’s in direct sunlight. Depending on the season, biting flies may be bothersome.
Developed in 2012, the Devil’s River State Trail follows an abandoned line of the Chicago and Northwestern Railway. It was a long-used railway line; built in 1906 and used until 1988. The C&NW Railway ran most of their express trains from Chicago to Green Bay along this route. Passenger service ran up until 1971.
In 1988, the C&NW Railway sold the line to the Fox River Valley Railroad, who merged with the Wisconsin Central Railroad in 1993. A few years later in 1996, the line between Denmark and Rockwood Road was abandoned and the rails removed. Today, trail-goers travel the route of former passenger and freight trains.
Dogs are allowed on the trail if leashed at all times. Horseback riding is also permitted in Manitowoc County. A state trail pass is not needed to use the Devil’s River State Trail. Practice proper trail etiquette and obey all posted trail rules.
Route Descriptions