09 Watersmeet Rails to Trails 
wildlife viewing | directions and facility information
Photo: Erwin Drabek,
US Forest
Service
This old railroad grade that has been converted to a linear park runs
from the U.S. Forest Service visitor center in Watersmeet
to the public library in Land O’ Lakes, Wisconsin, a
distance of about 8 miles. The trail cuts cross-country through a
diversity of habitats including forests, lowland brush, beaver ponds, clearcuts, and open areas. Bicycles, skis,
snowmobiles, ATVs, and pets are all permitted to share this little-used
trail with hikers. The trail crosses a stream in which colorful brook
trout may be seen along rocks and logs.
 Wildlife
Viewing
Photo: Erwin Drabek,
US Forest
Service
White-tailed deer are common in the forested areas and clearcuts. Beavers, muskrats, mink, and shorebirds
may be viewed in and around the floodings
created by industrious beavers. A wide variety of songbirds may be
observed and heard calling in the many habitats that are traversed by
this old railroad grade. Common warblers include the chestnut-sided
warbler, Nashville
warbler, and yellow warbler.
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