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Wildlife Area · Wisconsin

Pulling County Wildlife Area

Pulling County Wildlife Area offers expansive habitats dedicated to wildlife conservation and diverse outdoor recreation including hunting, birdwatching, and hiking in central Wisconsin.

Wildlife Area34004+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Area

Total Wilderness Area

3400

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Pulling County Wildlife Area

Pulling County Wildlife Area offers expansive habitats dedicated to wildlife conservation and diverse outdoor recreation including hunting, birdwatching, and hiking in central Wisconsin.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Pulling County Wildlife Area spans over 3,400 acres of varied landscapes located in central Wisconsin, primarily within Marathon County. The area consists of a mix of wetlands, hardwood forests, grasslands, and open fields that provide critical habitat for numerous game and non-game species. Established in 1947 with the purpose of conserving native wildlife and supporting sustainable hunting opportunities, the wildlife area is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Visitors to Pulling County Wildlife Area can explore a network of trails and access points that accommodate birdwatchers, hikers, and hunters throughout different seasons. Waterfowl are particularly abundant in the wetland complexes, making the area a popular destination for waterfowl hunting and spring/fall migration viewing. The forested sections support deer, turkey, and small game populations. The wildlife area is not only a prime hunting ground but also a valuable natural classroom for ecological studies and seasonal wildlife observations. Access points and parking areas are well-maintained, and the region is quiet and largely undeveloped, providing a natural escape for outdoor enthusiasts. The area's management focuses on maintaining habitat diversity through prescribed burns and resource monitoring to balance recreation with wildlife conservation. Pulling County Wildlife Area represents a key example of Wisconsin's commitment to protecting important wildlife habitats while offering year-round outdoor recreational opportunities.

Field Guide · Wildlife Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Pulling County Wildlife Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Nature's Pathway: Bearskin Trailhead Park★ 3.2⌖ 66 miCycling
Bearskin Trailhead Park

Nature's Pathway: Bearskin Trailhead Park

Explore the 18-mile Bearskin Trail at Bearskin Trailhead Park near Minocqua, WI. This easy and accessible path is perfect for biking and hiking, offering beautiful forest and lake views. Ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and history buffs. Best seasons: late spring and fall.

Riverside Tranquility at North Fork Eau Claire River★ 7.2⌖ 66 miHiking
North Fork Eau Claire River State Natural Area

Riverside Tranquility at North Fork Eau Claire River

Explore the serene North Fork Eau Claire River State Natural Area near Augusta, WI. Ideal for hiking and wildlife watching, with gentle rapids for canoeing. Best visited in spring or fall, the area promises tranquility and rich plant life for adventure seekers.

Discover the Colors of Chequamegon-Nicolet⌖ 70 miHiking
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest

Discover the Colors of Chequamegon-Nicolet

Explore the vast Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest near Park Falls, WI. Ideal for hiking and admired for its vibrant fall colors and diverse wildlife. Quiet year-round and great for photography with a 9/10 rating.

Enchanting Pathways: Witches Gulch⌖ 86 miHiking
Witches Gulch

Enchanting Pathways: Witches Gulch

Explore the winding boardwalk through Witches Gulch in Dell Prairie for a unique hiking experience. With easy access and stunning geology, it's perfect for photographers and nature lovers. Best visited in spring or fall with minimal crowds.

Majestic Rock Formations: Dells of the Wisconsin River★ 8.5⌖ 88 miBoat Tours
Dells of the Wisconsin River State Natural Area

Majestic Rock Formations: Dells of the Wisconsin River

Explore the Dells of the Wisconsin River, famous for its sandstone rock formations. Ideal for boat tours, hiking, and rock climbing in spring and fall. Watch for eagles and enjoy the serene settings, though summer can get busy.

Boat ToursView Details→
Discover the Serenity of Chapel Gorge Trail⌖ 88 miHiking
Chapel Gorge Trail

Discover the Serenity of Chapel Gorge Trail

Explore the 1.7-mile Chapel Gorge Trail near Wisconsin Dells, WI. This easy route offers stunning river views and captivating sandstone formations. Popular for hiking and picnicking, it provides a peaceful retreat, especially in the vibrant fall season.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Extensive wetland complexes supporting diverse waterfowl populations✦ Habitat management practices including controlled burns enhancing native plant growth✦ Seasonal hunting opportunities for deer, turkey, and waterfowl✦ Quiet, low-impact hiking trails ideal for birdwatching and wildlife photography
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Pulling County Wildlife Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Pulling County Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Pulling County Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Pulling County Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Pulling County Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Pulling County Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Nature Study

Available in Pulling County Wildlife Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Pulling County Wildlife Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; hunting requires appropriate Wisconsin licenses and permits.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Pulling County Wildlife Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Schofield
⌖ 1.44 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Schofield, Wisconsin

A riverside town offering a mix of water-based and forest outdoor activities with easy access to the Wisconsin River and nearby trails.

Late Spring through Early Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Rothschild
⌖ 2.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rothschild, Wisconsin

A tranquil Midwest gateway offering easy access to rivers, trails, and parks for a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.

Late Spring to Early Fall for water and trail activities; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Wausau
⌖ 2.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wausau, Wisconsin

A Midwestern outdoor hub offering diverse year-round activities amid forests, rivers, and the scenic Rib Mountain State Park.

Spring through Fall for hiking & paddling; Winter for skiingExplore Town
Kronenwetter
⌖ 6.47 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kronenwetter, Wisconsin

A quiet, natural-focused town with forested landscapes and easy access to lakes and trails, ideal for low-key outdoor activities and seasonal adventures.

Late Spring through Early Fall; Winter for snow activitiesExplore Town
Mosinee
⌖ 9.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mosinee, Wisconsin

A quiet lakeside town offering a mix of forested trails, lake paddling, and seasonal outdoor activities in central Wisconsin.

Late Spring through Fall and Winter for skiingExplore Town
Merrill
⌖ 18.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Merrill, Wisconsin

A riverside town with easy access to forests and trails, offering a mix of seasonal outdoor activities for paddlers, hikers, bikers, and winter sports enthusiasts.

Spring through Fall for paddling, hiking, and biking; Winter for snowmobiling and cross-country skiingExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Pulling County Wildlife Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.