ATV & UTV season is here and the Vilas County ATV/UTV route system is open for adventure. Our ATV & UTV routes connect the communities of St. Germain, Arbor Vitae, Eagle River, Conover, Phelps and Land O’ Lakes so there are miles of riding to enjoy. Here’s a quick guide to ATVing and UTVing in Vilas County and Wisconsin’s Northwoods.
New riders
Beginning riders can find plenty to enjoy in northern Wisconsin. Need a machine? You can rent one in Eagle River or Land O’ Lakes. You’ll find ATV and UTV routes in the communities of Conover, Phelps, Land O’ Lakes and Eagle River. These routes are open from early May to the end of October and they connect to other area trails and routes to the east and to the north. The routes are marked with signs to help you stay on track.
Riding from Eagle River
If you’re using Eagle River as your home base, a good half-hour ride takes you along Hwy. 45 and crosses the Wisconsin River to the west before heading north along dirt routes to Conover. Heading from Conover to Phelps takes another 20 minutes, and from there you can access ATV/UTV trails to the east in Forest County.
A longer option
A longer, more challenging route takes riders northwest from Phelps on County Hwy. E. You’ll head to a dirt path on Blong Rd. and Fire Lane Rd. before looping back south and east to Conover on Cty. Hwy. K. Cut back up to Blong Rd. to continue your trip back to Phelps. Use the ATV signs to follow the route.
Stay safe
Be sure to operate your machine safely and responsibly. ATV and UTV operators born on or after Jan. 1, 1988 who are at least 12 years old for ATV (and at least 16 years old for UTV) must complete an ATV and UTV safety certification course in order to operate on public ATV/UTV trails and areas in Wisconsin. For more information about ATV/UTV riding in Wisconsin, visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website.
