Photo: Wisconsin DNR
The Coulee Experimental State Forest is a unique property in Wisconsin. This 3,000-acre forest is used for long-term forest watershed research studies to develop land management practices. The property is managed for forest production and wildlife habitat, and offers recreation opportunities for hunting, cross-country skiing, hiking and horseback riding. Coulee accurately describes the area, as the forest has many deep gulches and ravines.
Quick answers
When is the best time to visit Coulee State Forest?
It depends on what you came for. Fall color is best in October; horseback riding in June and September–October; cross-country skiing in January–February; and snowshoeing in January–February.
What can you do at Coulee State Forest in each season?
Winter (December–February): hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Spring (March–May): hiking and hunting. Summer (June–August): hiking and horseback riding. Fall (September–November): hiking, fall color, horseback riding and hunting.
Do you need a state park sticker at Coulee State Forest?
No. Coulee State Forest doesn't require a vehicle sticker or a state trail pass.
What state parks and trails are near Coulee State Forest?
The closest state properties, as the crow flies: La Crosse River State Trail (4 mi), Great River State Trail (17 mi) and Perrot State Park (24 mi).
Good for
- Hiking
- Horseback riding
- Hunting
- Snowshoeing
- Cross-country skiing
Best months
January · February · June · September · October · November
Visiting
- Admission: A vehicle admission sticker is not required.
- Hours: Open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. year-round.
- Address: N3355 County Road II Bangor, WI 54614
- Phone: 608-792-5317
Nearby
- La Crosse River State Trail (4 mi)
- Great River State Trail (17 mi)
- Perrot State Park (24 mi)
- Elroy-Sparta State Trail (25 mi)
- Wildcat Mountain State Park (26 mi)
Closures and alerts for Coulee State Forest: updates · RSS · JSON Feed
Text and park details on this page come from the property's DNR pages, checked every Monday; last change October 24, 2026. Closures and notices load live. Check current conditions before you go.