6 Autumn ATV/UTV Getaways for Wandering Wisconsin’s Northwoods

There's nothing quite like exploring Wisconsin's Northwoods when the forests are glowing with fall color. Hit the ATV trails with your favorite people and wind through towering pines, brilliant hardwoods and scenic overlooks painted in shades of gold, crimson and orange. From spontaneous photo stops to evenings swapping stories around the campfire, every mile is another chance to make unforgettable memories together.

Try Multiple Terrains in Bayfield County

Where to play: Beautiful Bayfield County is home to more than 180 miles of ATV trails ideal for explorers of all ages. These routes offer breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands – a scenic mix of wooded areas, hills, and beaches. And with charming Bayfield and neighboring communities close by, you’re never too far from great restaurants, shops and pubs.

Where to stay: Lake Owen Resort, Cable

This family vacation spot is located in the heart of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and on the shores of Lake Owen – named the healthiest of Wisconsin’s 15,000 lakes for its spring-fed, crystal-clear water. Visitors come for the miles of ATV trails in Bayfield County, but also take advantage of the fishing, boating, swimming and biking that the resort’s location provides.

Where to rent gear: Stop in at Runamuk Rides in Hayward to rent side-by-side ATVs, snowmobiles, fishing boats and pontoon boats for easy adventuring.

Find Riverside Fun in Burnett County

Where to play: Burnett County is made for fall ATV adventures. Explore over 50 miles of trails as brilliant autumn hues surround you, then pause along the way to take in the beauty of the St. Croix River. From scenic overlooks to spontaneous photo stops, every ride is another chance to share unforgettable moments together.

Where to stay: The Lodge at Crooked Lake Hotel, Siren 

This spot is a total gem. For starters, you’ll love its authentic rustic feel. Its location is also second to none: The Lodge sits right on the Gandy Dancer State Trail—a top spot for ATV/UTV riders—and is a block from Crooked Lake and a short walk from the town of Siren. 

Where to rent gear: Find all types of ATVs and UTVs at Throttle RX Rentals, as well as guided tours of the area!

Discover Impressive Trails in Douglas County

Where to play: In Wisconsin's northernmost county, more than 100 miles of ATV trails lead you through colorful forests, peaceful stretches of Northwoods scenery and unforgettable fall views. Ride sections of the Saunders, Gandy Dancer and Wild Rivers State Trails, where every turn offers another reason to slow down, soak in the season and enjoy the journey together.

Where to stay: St. Croix Inn, Solon Springs

The St. Croix Inn includes a view of Upper Saint Croix Lake and a location near both Lucius Woods County Park and Douglas County State Wildlife Area, which just so happens to be Wisconsin’s largest county park.

Where to rent gear: Throttle RX in Danbury will be your closest spot for rentals here, too!

Ride to Waterfalls in Iron County

Where to play: Iron County is packed with unforgettable fall adventures, hosting the largest ATV/UTV trail system in Wisconsin. 250 miles of interconnected scenic routes wind through the 175,000-acre Iron County Forest that lights up with autumn hues each year. Traverse these stunning trails together and be sure to make time for a few scenic detours. Stop at Potato River Falls to admire rushing waterfalls framed by brilliant fall color, or take the short walk to Spring Camp Falls for another picture-perfect view. It's the kind of ride that's full of "Let's stop here!" moments you'll be talking about long after the day ends.

Where to stay: Donner’s Bay Resort, Butternut

A popular spot on the Turtle Flambeau Flowage, Donner’s Bay Resort includes campsites, cabins and miles of marked and maintained ATV trails. The resort is complete with a boat ramp, pontoon rentals, a game room and restaurants just down the road.

Where to rent gear: B & B Adventures in Mercer offers UTV rentals and direct access to Iron County’s impressive trails.

Cruise Oconto County

Where to play: Oconto County is a fall ATV/UTV paradise, with more than 500 miles of well-marked trails winding through some of North Central Wisconsin’s most beautiful scenery. Cruise beneath colorful tree canopies in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, take in the crisp autumn air and enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Where to stay: Everbreeze Resort, Mountain

Located in the heart of Oconto County and right on Chute Pond, Everbreeze Resort provides four year-round cabins to the many visitors who take advantage of its proximity to beautiful ATV trails. The resort also has an on-site restaurant, while the Mountain area offers an abundance of hiking, fishing, hunting, golfing and rafting opportunities.

Where to rent gear: Northwoods Powersports Adventures in Lakewood is your spot for ATV/UTV rentals and scenic tours.

Frolic with Friends in Price County

Where to play: Experience the beauty of fall in Price County by exploring the Flambeau River State Forest that includes a breathtaking 38-mile ATV/UTV route. Ride through forest roads, town roads and scenic trails surrounded by autumn color, with plenty of opportunities to share the adventure with hikers, bikers and horseback riders along the way. Convenient lodging, including cabins, campgrounds, cottages and resorts, makes it easy to turn your trail ride into a memorable getaway.

Where to stay: Gather your crew for a cozy fall getaway at Sunset Haven Resort on the shores of Solberg Lake. Wake up to colorful lake views from your cabin, spend the day exploring nearby ATV trails, then wind down together over pizza, sandwiches and stories at the on-site bar and grill. 

Where to rent gear: A TrailHead Adventure in Rice Lake will be your closest rental shop for off-road fun.

Keep the fun going and discover more Wisconsin ATV trails with scenic stop-offs!