Recreation
Mountain-Bay State Trail
The trail is operated and maintained by Marathon, Shawano and Brown counties. The trail passes through several small communities and a wide variety of landscapes including farmlands, forests and wetlands and features numerous bridge crossings over rivers and streams.
Along the Marathon County portion of the trail, there is a series of twelve interpretive signs picturing the early history of the county and the former rail line on which the trail is constructed. In Eland, the Mountain-Bay State Trail connects to the northern segment of the Wiouwash State Trail.
The trail may bring a number of different users to the trail at the same time. It is important to use good trail etiquette to ensure the enjoyment and safety of all trail users.
Trail uses vary by county, remember to watch for postings along the trail or contact the county offices for more information.
Horseback riding
Horseback riding is allowed in Shawano County only. Horses are not permitted on the trail in Marathon or Brown counties. Riders are asked to limit their use of the trail immediately following a heavy rainfall to reduce the amount of damage to the trail. Riders must pick up after their horse. Each rider age 16 or older needs a Wisconsin state trail pass while using the trail.
Ice Age National Scenic Trail
The Ice Age Trail follows the Mountain-Bay State Trail corridor for about two miles between Ringle and Hatley in Marathon County.
Walking and bicycling
The level grade and smooth surface make this trail suitable for bicyclists, walkers and joggers. Each bicyclist age 16 or older needs a Wisconsin state trail pass while using the trail.
Pet owners, please be sure to have your pet on a leash, 8 feet or shorter, at all times. You must pick up after your pet.
Winter activities
Snowmobiles are allowed on the trail in Marathon and Shawano counties, and for six miles in Brown County between Highway 32 and Brookside Drive, and between Glendale Avenue and Spring Green Park in Howard. Operators must follow all Wisconsin snowmobile laws. The Mountain-Bay State Trail also connects to numerous miles of county snowmobile trail systems.
The opening and closing of snowmobile trails are at the discretion of each county. Snowmobile trails that cross DNR lands are opened and closed consistent with the surrounding county (or counties). Whenever possible, the opening and closing of snowmobile trails are done on a county-wide basis, however, localized conditions may require localized trail opening and closing. It is the responsibility of the county to provide notification about the status of snowmobile trails.
The Travel Wisconsin Snow Conditions Report [exit DNR], and local club and county snowmobile webpages [exit DNR] and telephone hotlines will provide the most current information.
The trail is open to walking, bicycling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, however, the trail is not groomed and users must share the trail with snowmobiles. Skiers do not need a trail pass while using the trail.
No Hunting and trapping allowed on trail
Hunting and trapping are not allowed on the trail corridor. For more information, please see:
A portion of the Mountain Bay State Trail property in the village of Howard is more than 100 yards from the trail corridor. This portion is open to hunting during the Wisconsin state parks hunting time frame.