Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit

Highlights

Northern Kettle Moraine feels airy, glacial, and quietly expansive—a strong pick for riders who like long miles with changing terrain.

Riding

The real payoff shows up once the trail begins to string its scenery together. 41 miles of bridle trail and horse/snowmobile routes through rolling moraine country, wooded ridges, and glacial topography. The footing, scenery, and overall cadence differ by property, of course, but this one consistently rewards riders who want a day that feels immersive, scenic, and worth the drive.

Rideable terrain

41 miles

Trailer parking

Riders typically stage from the Mauthe Lake area and designated northern-unit equestrian access points, where gravel lots and wide turning space work well for trailers.

Horse regulations

Use only designated equestrian routes and observe posted closures. Riders 16 and older need a state trail pass, and some segments are shared with seasonal snowmobile use or other trail users.

Getting here

Getting from trailer to trail tends to feel smooth rather than hectic. Riders typically stage from the Mauthe Lake area and designated northern-unit equestrian access points, where gravel lots and wide turning space work well for trailers. It is the sort of setup that helps both seasoned haulers and less frequent trailer travelers start the day in a calm, organized frame of mind.

Planning your visit

Plan by trail segment rather than assuming it rides like one single loop. Conditions can vary by season, and shoulder-season mud or active hunting periods are worth checking before you commit to a longer haul.

Where to stay

The stay story here is less about elaborate horse facilities and more about how easily the ride fits into a weekend. Horse camping gives this unit real weekend potential, especially for riders who prefer an outdoors-first itinerary. Campbellsport, Plymouth, and surrounding small towns provide supplies, casual meals, and easy reset options between ride days.