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Marathon County Now Home to Two Nationally Designated Trails
Visit Wausau is thrilled to announce that a segment of the Great Pinery Heritage Waterway, a 108-mile stretch of the historic Wisconsin River, has officially been designated a National Recreation Trail by the U.S. Department of the Interior. This honor places Marathon County among a select group of destinations with two national trails, joining the renowned Ice Age National Scenic Trail.
“With the Great Pinery now nationally designated, Marathon County can proudly say we are home to not one, but two National Trails,” said Tim White, Executive Director of Visit Wausau. “This is more than a win for outdoor lovers—it’s a boost to our economy, identity, and quality of life. It cements Wausau as Wisconsin’s Basecamp for adventure.”
Discover the Trail
The newly designated 20.8-mile segment of the Great Pinery Heritage Waterway offers paddlers scenic views of old-growth pine forests, historic dam sites, and vibrant river communities. Often referred to as the “Hardest Working River in the World,” the Wisconsin River played a critical role in shaping the region’s logging and industrial heritage.
The waterway features a wide range of paddling conditions, from gentle, scenic stretches perfect for beginners to the adrenaline-pumping rapids of Wausau’s internationally acclaimed downtown whitewater course.
Today, the Wisconsin River is cleaner than it’s been in over a century, thanks to decades of environmental restoration and stewardship. According to the Wisconsin DNR, water quality in this stretch of the river now supports safe recreation, healthy fish populations, and diverse aquatic life—making it an ideal paddling destination for families, anglers, and outdoor adventurers.
Community and National Leaders Applaud the Recognition
Bill Bertram, Marathon County Parks and Recreation Foundation: “The Great Pinery celebrates our natural and cultural heritage. This designation helps local communities preserve access, expand signage, and inspire the next generation of paddlers.
Chris Morgan, Rivers, Trails & Conservation Assistance Program, National Park Service: “The National Recreation Trails system connects people with the landscapes that help shape them. The Great Pinery is a shining example of community-driven conservation and storytelling, and the groundswell of support from riverside communities to install kayak launches along the upper Wisconsin River is truly impressive.”
Two National Trails, One Basecamp
Marathon County is now home to two nationally designated trails:
Trail: Great Pinery Heritage Waterway
Type: National Recreation Trail
Highlights: Paddling trail along the Wisconsin River with rich logging history and scenic natural views
Trail: Ice Age Trail
Type: National Scenic Trail
Highlights: Hike through glacial landforms like eskers and kettles, part of Wisconsin’s iconic glacial landscape
This dual designation reinforces the Wausau area as a premier hub for year-round outdoor
recreation.
Start Planning Your Adventure
Explore launch points, paddling maps, historical sites, and itineraries for both trails: