Pine and Popple Wild Rivers Conditions

Conditions as of Tuesday, November 10, 2009:

Nature

Waterfall viewing should continue to be great, with the rivers running high. The leaves are down, so you can see everything moving around in the woods. There are many birds, squirrels, and chipmunks moving about. Snow buntings have been reported in the area. Deer are readily seen during the day depending on the weather.

Wildlife and Hunting

Hunting seasons are open, so you might want to wear high visibility clothing. Ruffed grouse, black bear, and deer are the most popular targets.

Rivers

We have had several measurable rain events in the last couple months, and with the end of the growing season, there is little uptake from groundwater. The rivers are actually in better condition for running than they have been most of the summer. Moderate whitewater conditions could make for fun runs, but bring lots of warm clothing.

Trails and Roads

The trails that access waterfalls on the property are undeveloped, which means they have not been leveled, they are primitive and soil surfaced. Suitable hiking boots and a good walking stick are recommended. There are some small game and big game hunting seasons open now through January, so blaze orange or bright clothing is recommended.

All access roads are open and accessible, although a vehicle with good clearance is recommended, and four-wheel drive is preferred for some of the more remote locations. Be ready for deep puddles and greasy soils in low-lying areas.

Camping

The property has three campsites available for free by river users. The campsites can be reached only by the river. Each site has a tent pad, fire ring, and picnic table. All three campsites are open for use on a first-come, first-served basis.

More Information

The Wild Rivers Interpretive Center (on State Highway 70 in Florence) is open six days a week, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Saturdays 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. The center is closed on Sundays. Staff are available to answer questions and provide property maps, canoeing and field guides, and other information. License sales are also available.

We do not have a volunteer group, but would be willing to consider developing one if there was interest. Anyone interested in volunteering to help with brushing/maintaining portages, accesses, or other river property needs should contact manager.

Contact

To comment or get more information about the Pine and Popple Wild Rivers contact:

The Florence Natural Resource and Wild Rivers Interpretive Center [exit DNR]
4793 Forestry Drive
Florence, WI 54121
(888) 889-0049 (toll free)

Jeremy Holtz, Wild Rivers Manager
4842 Forestry Drive (corner of U.S. Highway 2 and State Highway 101)
Florence, WI 54121
(715) 528-4400 ext. 119
Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8 am to 4:30 p.m.

In case of emergency, contact:

Forest County Sheriff — 911 or (715) 478-3331
Florence County Sheriff — 911 or (715) 528-3346