Paddle/Portage to Clear Lake within NHALSF and Big Swamp State Natural Area

Did you know there are at least 17 “Clear” and 5 “Muskellunge” Lakes in Wisconsin? The ones described below are probably not the ones you know about. Join me for a “Flat Water” paddle and short portage to a wilderness lake in the Northern Highlands American Legion State Forest and the Big Swamp State Natural Area. This little gem is only about 15 miles drive north of Rhinelander. We will start our paddle from the Muskellunge Lake Boat Ramp. Muskellunge Lake is a 287 acre spring fed lake. We’ll paddle about 1 mile, to the Northern end of Muskellunge Lake. We’ll do a short 900’ portage to the banks of Clear Lake. Clear Lake is a 63 acre wilderness lake with no development. After we’ve paddled and enjoyed Clear Lake, we’ll retrace our steps and strokes back to where our trip began.
PFD's are required for all NPT paddle events. Bring water, and wear appropriate footwear and clothes for the portage and weather. New for 2025 - A donation of $5.00 per event is requested for non-NPT members which can be paid at the event. Membership for NPT is $10.00/year. To become a NPT member go to NorthernPaddleTrail.org and click on membership. Please contact Scott Luedtke if you have any questions. I hope you can join me on this NPT adventure.

Boat Ramp Coordinates: 45.798636, -89.489649
Directions: from Rhinelander Hwy K and 47:
Travel 7.7 mi north on Hwy 47 towards Bridge Road in McNaughton.

Turn right on Bridge Road travel 0.2 miles. Turn right to stay on Bridge Road travel 0.8 miles. Turn left on Black Lake Road. Travel on Black Lake Road for 4.8 mile to Gypsy Lake Road. Turn right on Gypsy Lake Road. Travel on Gypsy Lake Road for 1.3 mi to Ridgeway Drive. Turn right on Ridgeway drive. Travel on Ridgeway drive for 0.5 to entrance to boat landing.