Wisconsin - Quartz Hill Trail

Trail Description:

This trail has two sections, one located on the east and one on the west side of State Highway 32. The east section leads across a boardwalk to the top of McCaslin Mountain. It has moderately steep sections, but the view from the top of this quartz rock outcrop is worth the climb. Along the trail to the top, you will pass a quartz crystal deposit with an informational sign which describes how early Indians came here to quarry quartz to create their tools.

The west portion of this trail leads to the site of the Carter Fire Lookout Tower. Once used to spot forest fires, all that now remains are the tower footings and roadway. Most fire towers on the Nicolet were erected in the 1930's and have since been discontinued as aerial surveillance took over.

Specific Hiking and Trail Information for the Quartz Hill Trail
Location of the Quartz Hill Trail: Nicolet side
Length of Trail: 2 miles or less
Estimated Difficulty (Forest Service Estimate): Intermediate:Difficult

Travel Information
Trailhead Directions:

From Carter, take State Highway 32 south 1 mile. The parking area is on the west side of the highway. A sign with trail map is at the trailhead. To get to the east portion of the trail from the parking lot you must cross over State Highway 32. Be cautious for high speed traffic. Trail Length: The trail section to the east to McCaslin Mountain is 6/10 mile. The section to the west to Carter Tower site is 3/4 mile.

For more information on this hike
National Forest: Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
Address:
1170 Fourth Avenue South
Park Falls, WI, 54552
715-362-1371
715-762-2461