Forest County Official Trail Openings Mark Start of 2026 Spring UTV Season
State-Funded Trails Open for the Season
On Saturday, April 25, 2026, Forest County officials in Wisconsin officially opened the majority of state-funded ATV and UTV trails for the spring season. This annual reopening applies to major state-funded trail networks within the county, including the Nicolet State Trail and the Wolf River State Trail. However, local forestry and parks authorities specified that specific county trails, such as the popular 8-Mile Loop, are to remain closed for another month, tentatively scheduled to open on May 23, 2026.
Early Spring Riding Cautions
Due to standard melting patterns and spring rains, the Forest County Forestry Department warned riders that trails are currently in "early spring condition." UTV operators should expect soft terrain, standing mud, and fallen branches. Trail crews are still actively out brushing, grading, and clearing the pathways. Officials have urged drivers to use caution, reduce speeds, and strictly remain on the approved trails. Off-roaders are also reminded that snowmobile trails are strictly closed to UTV use by county ordinance.
EZApex's Take: Getting Your Rig Ready for Mud Season
From our perspective at ezapex.com, the opening of major trail systems like those in Forest County signals the official start of "mud season" for UTV owners across the Midwest. Transitioning from winter storage to sloppy, wet trails puts an immense load on your vehicle's mechanical components.
Before hitting these early spring trails, we strongly recommend that you check your constant-velocity (CV) boots for tears. Mud and water easily penetrate torn boots, destroying your CV joints rapidly. This is also the perfect time to evaluate your winch reliability, consider upgrading to higher-clearance A-arms to avoid getting hung up on trail debris, and verify that your radiator is clear to avoid overheating when the mud starts to fly.