South Kettle Moraine Scuppernong straightaway into a pine forest
original photo by Ted Nelson
South Kettle Moraine State Forest Scuppernong cross-country ski trail system is one of the three trail areas found in this great state forest. The other two are the Nordic trails and the McMiller trails.
The Scuppernong system is for classic cross-country skiers only. Skaters must stick to the McMiller and Nordic systems.
To get to the Scuppernong trails from Chicago take I-94 north to Kenosha and exit west on State Route 50. Go about 30 miles on State Route 50 to U.S. 12 and then go north on 12 through Elkhart. About 15 miles northwest of Elkhart veer north on state route 67, which becomes the Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive north of Eagle, Wisconsin. Just north of Eagle turn right on County ZZ and turn left into the Scuppernong Ski Trails parking lot about a mile from the 67 junction. Overall, the trip is about 110 miles from Chicago.
The Scuppernong system starts out in a beautiful pine forest that was planted in rows many years ago. It is like skiing through a pine labyrinth or a maze as all the trees tower above in straight lines. The trail system has three trails with lengths that vary. The Green Loop is 5 miles, the Orange Loop is 4.2 miles, and the Red Loop is 2.3 miles.
The Scuppernong is probably the easiest of the trail groups in the Southern unit. There are many long downhill straightaways with slight turns, but not many technical turns which require much use of the snowplow technique.
This makes this trail a great place for someone who has skied before and wants to test their mettle on trails with more of a challenge. I would not recommend for beginners unless the beginner is adventurous and athletic. This trail system is also great for a family outing.
South Kettle Moraine Scuppernong straightaway through a snow covered pine forest
original photo by Ted Nelson
Cross-country skis can be rented at REI in Chicago. If a local option is preferred try Quiet Hut Sports in nearby Whitewater, Wisconsin or in Lagrange, Wisconsin at Back Yark Bikes at the corner of U.S. 12 and County H just south of the Nordic trails.
Do not forget to bring a little bit of cash with you. Ski trails in the state forest cost $4.00 a day or $20.00 for the year and a vehicle permit costs $10.00 a day or $35.00 for the annual pass.
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Comments
We are so blessed in this country to have an abundance of state and federal parks. Your story and photos make us feel we're there. Such a talent!
More great pictures and info. Thanks for sharing.
Great info and as always, I love the photos.
Scuppernong - what a name! You are a true outdoorsman, Ted. I applaud you for your coverage of winter sports in the Midwest. Your enthusiasm for your topic is evident. Love the pix, too.
I agree with Jay, great reporting thanks for this.
Yet another great cross-country article with great photos. Thanks, Ted!
You're articles are increasing my outdoor sports vocab and knowledge.
Great photos.
Ahhhh, the light in that top pic is divine! I'm thinking you have the annual pass, yes? ;-)
A friend of mine and her husband, who have learned to love Cross-Country Skiing are going to do the Supernogg based on your write-up. Way to motivate.
The more that I read your articles, the more I see that I am missing out on a lot of things. I have never done any cross country skiing, but I am ready to get into it.
I wonder though, during summer months is the trail open to runners, or is it strictly winter sports? I ask because it looks like the kind of place I would like to go in order to run- peaceful and serene.
Great article.
Scuppernong is a wine grape. Are there wineries in the area?
Great photos, and useful info. Thanks!
I agree with Jennifer's comments above!
It has been a very long time since i last went scuppernonging. It's so much fun!!
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