Overview
The Pines and Mines Trail Loop samples a portion of the 70-mile multi-use trail system in the Iron County area of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The name anchors the trail in history: white pine logging and iron ore mining defined this part of Wisconsin from the 1880s through the mid-20th century, and interpretive signs along the route explain what the landscape looked like before and after those industries ran their course.
The forest here is secondary growth a mix of red and white pine, balsam fir, and northern hardwoods that have grown back over former logged and mined ground. The terrain is more rolling than the flatter lake country to the west, with modest ridges and drainages that give the trail a bit more topographic interest. At 300 feet of elevation gain over 5 miles, it qualifies as easy-moderate, with the occasional short climb but no sustained steep sections.
The trail system is used by mountain bikers, equestrians, and hikers, and also serves as a cross-country ski network in winter. This multi-use character means the trails are generally well-maintained and clearly signed.
The Route
Miles 0 to 1.5: From the US-51 trailhead, the loop heads into the forest on a wide, well-maintained path. The first interpretive sign, about a half mile in, explains the early logging camps that operated in this area. The forest at this stage is mixed pine and birch, with the understory recovering from past disturbance.
Miles 1.5 to 3: The middle section gains most of the loop's elevation on a gradual climb through a stand of mature red pine one of the few areas where the logging-era forest has been largely replanted rather than left to natural succession. An old mine location is marked with an interpretive sign around mile 2.5. The remnants of historical infrastructure are subtle a depression, a few old timbers but the signs explain what once stood here.
Miles 3 to 5: The descent returns through northern hardwoods and eventually rejoins the approach path near the trailhead. The last half mile is wide and flat, making for an easy finish.
When to Visit
May through October is the hiking season. Late June through September is most reliable for dry trail conditions. Fall color in the hardwood sections is good from late September through mid-October. Winter brings groomed cross-country ski opportunities on sections of this trail system.
Check current trail conditions before visiting, particularly in spring when mountain bike use can create ruts in wet conditions.
What to Bring
- Many hikers carry 1 liter of water for this length of trail. No water sources are available on the route itself. Individual needs vary.
- Trail running shoes or light hiking boots work well on the well-maintained surfaces
- Insect repellent in June and July
- Trekking poles useful on the short downhill sections in wet conditions
Practical Details
A vault toilet is available at the trailhead. No fee charged for hiking (as of 2026). The trail is shared with mountain bikers on some sections be aware of bike traffic, particularly on weekends.
Practice Leave No Trace principles. See the national forest camping permit guide if planning overnight use.
Getting There
From Mercer, Wisconsin, the trailhead is off US-51 approximately 2 miles south of town. Watch for the Pines and Mines trail system signs and kiosk. Mercer is on US-51 approximately 30 miles south of Ironwood, Michigan, and 50 miles north of Rhinelander. GPS coordinates are approximately 46.30°N, 90.30°W.