Motor Vehicle Use Maps

The designations shown on motor vehicle use maps (MVUM) were made by the responsible official pursuant to 36 CFR 212.51; are effective as of the date on the front cover of the MVUM; and will remain in effect until superseded by next year's MVUM.

It is the responsibility of the user to acquire the current MVUM. This MVUM shows the National Forest System roads, National Forest System trails, and the areas on National Forest System lands in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest that are designated for motor vehicle use pursuant to 36 CFR 212.51. This MVUM also identifies the vehicle classes allowed on each route and in each area; and any seasonal restrictions that apply on those routes and in those areas.

Designation of a road, trail, or area for motor vehicle use by a particular class of vehicle under 36 CFR 212.51 should not be interpreted as encouraging or inviting use or implying that the road, trail, or area is passable, actively maintained, or safe for travel. Motor vehicle designations include parking along designated routes and at facilities associated with designated routes when it is safe to do so and when not causing damage to National Forest System resources. Seasonal weather conditions and natural events may render designated roads and trails impassable for extended periods. Designated areas may contain dangerous or impassable terrain. Many designated roads and trails may be passable only by high-clearance vehicles or four-wheel-drive vehicles. Maintenance of designated roads and trails will depend on available resources, and many may receive little maintenance.

Motor vehicle use maps identify those roads, trails, and areas designated for the motor vehicle use under 36 CFR 212.51 for the purpose of enforcing the prohibition at 36 CFR 261.13. This is a limited purpose. The other public roads are shown for information and navigation purposes only and are not subject to designation under the Forest Service travel management regulation.

These designations apply only to National Forest System roads, National Forest System trails, and areas on National Forest System lands.

It is prohibited to possess or operate a motor vehicle on National Forest System lands on the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest other than in accordance with these designations (CFR 261.13).

Violators of 36 CFR 261.13 are subject to a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment for up to 6 months, or both (18U.S.C. 3571(e)). This prohibition applies regardless of the presence or absence of signs.

This map does not display nonmotorized uses, over-snow uses, or other facilities and attractions on the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Obtain forest visitor information from the local national forest office.

Designated roads, trails and areas may also be subject to temporary, emergency closures. As a visitor, you must comply with signs notifying you of such restrictions. A national forest may issue an order to close a road, trail or area on a temporary basis to protect the life, health, or safety of forest visitors or the natural or cultural resources in these areas. Such a temporary and/or emergency closures are consistent with the Travel Management Rule (36 CFR 212.52 (b), 36 CFR 261 subpart B).

The designation "road or trail open to all motor vehicles" does not supersede State traffic law.

Operating a motor vehicle on National Forest System roads, National Forest System trails, and in areas on National Forest System lands carries a greater responsibility than operating that vehicle in a city or other developed setting. Not only must you know and follow all applicable traffic laws, you need to show concern for the environment as well as other forest users. The misuse of motor vehicles can lead to the temporary or permanent closure of any designated road, trail, or area. As a motor vehicle operator, you are also subject to State traffic law, including State requirements for licensing, registration, and operation of the vehicle in question.

Motor vehicle use, especially off-highway vehicle use, involves inherent risks that may cause property damage, serious injury, and possibly death to participants. Drive cautiously and anticipate rough surfaces and features, such as snow, mud, vegetation, and water crossings common to remote driving conditions. By your participation, you voluntarily assume full responsibility for these damages, risks, and dangers. Take care at all times to protect yourself and those under your responsibility.

Much of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is remote. Medical assistance may not be readily available. Cellular telephones do not work in many areas of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Take adequate food, water, first-aid supplies, and other equipment appropriate for the conditions and expected weather.

Always remember to respect private land! Protect your privilege. Stay on designated roads and trails and in designated areas.

Read and understand this map in its entirety. If you have questions, please contact the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest for clarification.

As a motor vehicle operator on a National Forest System road, trail, or area you must comply with this map, as well as all Federal, State, and local laws and regulations. Compliance with these rules is your responsibility.

Roads Open to Highway Legal Vehicles Only:

These roads are open only to motor vehicles licensed under State law for general operation on all public roads within the state.

Special Vehicle Designation:

The road or trail is open to classes of vehicles other than those listed above. Refer to the Seasonal and Special Designation Table on the MVUM for further instructions.

Trails Open to Wheeled Vehicles 50" or less in Width:

These trails are open only to wheeled, motor vehicles less than 50 inches in width at the widest point on the vehicle.

Trails Open to Wheeled Vehicles 65" or less in Width:

These trails are open only to wheeled, motor vehicles less than 65 inches in width at the widest point on the vehicle.

Seasonal Designation:

This symbol, used in conjunction with one of the other road or trail symbols, indicates that the road or trail is open only during certain portions of the year. Refer to Seasonal and Special Designation Table in the MVUM for further instructions.

Other Public Roads and Trails:

• Highways, U.S., State
• Other Public Roads
• Other Public Trails

These symbols are used to show routes the Forest Service does not have jurisdiction over and has not designated for motorized use. These symbols are part of the reference layers showing connections to towns and cities outside the forest.

Short Route Identifier:

This symbol is used for roads that are too short to show a symbol type on the map. The symbol contains the number of the road or trail. Users should refer to the corresponding number in the Short Route Table in the MVUM for designation information.

Motorized Trail Access:

This symbol indicates a trailhead for access to a motorized route. Not all motorized routes have trailheads and those that do may range from primitive to developed.