Headwaters Wilderness

Located in the Nicolet National Forest in Wisconsin.

The Headwaters Wilderness Area of the Nicolet National Forest was added to the National Wilderness Preservation system by an Act of Congress on July 19, 1984.

The 20,000 acre Wilderness is located in Forest County, about 16 miles southeast of Eagle River, Wisconsin. The Giant Pine Grove and Shelp Lake area contain some of the largest and oldest trees in the Nicolet National Forest. These two areas were designated as Wisconsin State Research Natural Areas in 1974.

The terrain is generally flat, with hardwood ridges and forested swamps, muskeg and bog lowlands. Kimball Creek, Shelp Lake and the Headwaters of the Pine River are major water features within the Wilderness. The Pine River has been designated a Wild River by the Wisconsin legislature.

Solitude and non-motorized use of the area are the primary recreational attractions. Hiking, birdwatching, hunting, fishing and nature study may be enjoyed in the Headwaters Wilderness.

For more information contact: The Nicolet National Forest