Established in 1925 to protect the streamflow at the headwaters of the Wisconsin, Flambeau and Manitowish Rivers, the Northern-Highland American Legion (NHAL) State Forest occupies more than 222,000 acres. This is the largest state property in Wisconsin and the most visited. Over two million visitors come to the state forest each year to enjoy a wide array of recreational activities.

The forest is characterized by its abundance of scenic lakes and streams. There are over 900 lakes that lie within the forest boundary and there are numerous streams and rivers. These water resources lend sports enthusiasts and recreationalists to a variety of activities on this magnificent state forest.

Hiking through the forest means seeing and appreciating the beauty of the forest, swamps, lake shores and streams. The abundance of trails throughout the forest provide an excellent way to listen to a variety of birds, to view wildlife and to observe the diverse plant species found here.

A wide variety of wildlife and bird species that occur in northern Wisconsin can be found within the forest. Common wildlife that can be seen include deer, beaver, otter, fox, coyote and black bear. Goshawks, blue jays, yellow-bellied sapsuckers, chickadees and song sparrows are just a few of the hundred or so bird species that can be seen or heard in the forest. Be sure to keep your eyes open to see a soaring bald eagle or your ears tuned in to hear a loon or two.