Events

Join the NCTA Chequamegon Chapter for an entertaining and informative hike to learn about forest and wildlife ecology. We’ll hike over rolling hills to see a remote lake, streams, and ancient trees. Participants will learn about creation of this wilderness and some of its rules of use. Guides will describe trail design and construction standards, where in the landscape different tree species grow and why, and habitats for different species of wildlife.

This loop hike will begin at 9:00 a.m. We will hike about 2 1/2 miles on a dirt tread and over two narrow bridges across creeks, exit the Wilderness on 18-Mile Spring Creek spur trail, then return to our vehicles along Porcupine Road, arriving by noon.

This easy guided hike will be led by Mel Baughman, Forestry Professor Emeritus from the University of Minnesota and by Tom Matthiae, retired Wildlife Biologist from the US Forest Service. Both are active volunteers on the NCT.

A long-sleeved shirt and pants are recommended, along with insect repellent for mosquitoes. Bring a water bottle. There are no fees to participate and no restrooms near the trail.

The hike takes place in the Porcupine Lake Wilderness. From Highway 63 in Drummond, drive 5.3 miles southeast on FR 213 (North Lake Owen Drive) to a road junction. Turn left to continue 1.3 miles on FR 213 (now labeled Porcupine Road) to the Porcupine Lake spur trailhead.