The Tuscobia Trail is a symbol for the development of Northern
Wisconsin and is owned by the Wisconsin Department of Natural
Resources. Conceived as a railroad line in 1899, construction
lasted for 15 years, concluding in 1914 when the rail-line
reached Park Falls. For nearly 70 years, the rail, known as the
“Omaha Line”, served as the lifeblood for the area through
logging and farming opportunities, as well as the service
industries that developed along the route. By the 1940s, the
decline of the railroad was apparent with logging no longer
viable. In 1967, the dismantling of the old wooden bridges
began. Citizens surrounding the old railway were interested in
turning the grade into a functioning trail system that would
serve as a representation of the area’s history and provide an
opportunity for people to learn about the area and experience
the beauty that is available along the route. Development of the
74-mile Tuscobia Trail to its present use began in ~ Welcome ~
Maps and Communities ~ History ~ ~ Rice