Big Cain Creek Preserve | New Wisconsin Hiking Spot Guide

A New Public Nature Preserve in Marathon County

A 30-acre property in northern Marathon County is now open for public access. Known as the Big Cain Creek Preserve, the land offers visitors a chance to view protected forest ecosystems, wetlands, and a quarter-mile stretch of a high-quality trout stream. The North Central Conservancy Trust (NCCT) opened the site following a property donation in the spring of 2025. Mary Binkley, a native of Wausau, gifted the land to the organization to ensure the permanent protection of its natural resources.

Chris Radford, the executive director of the NCCT, noted that the land was originally purchased by Binkley’s parents in the 1960s for recreational use. After discussions with the trust, Binkley opted to donate the acreage to prioritize long-term conservation. The NCCT operates as a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting land through conservation easements and direct ownership. It currently protects over 5,500 acres across 60 private properties in central Wisconsin.

Ecological Significance of the Big Cain Creek Area

The preserve centers on Big Cain Creek, which the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources classifies as a Class 1 trout stream. This designation indicates the presence of a self-sustaining trout population. The creek is also categorized as an Exceptional Resource Water, a label reserved for waterways that possess high water quality and significant ecological value. According to the state agency, only about 11 percent of Wisconsin stream mileage receives this status.

Beyond the water, the preserve hosts a variety of tree species, including oak, spruce, elm, sugar maple, and yellow birch. The presence of forested wetlands, which feature balsam fir and tag alder, provides habitat for local and migratory wildlife. These features act as a natural buffer, helping to maintain the water quality of the creek while supporting regional biodiversity.

Managing Public Access and Recreation

The NCCT team took specific steps to ensure that human presence does not degrade the site’s natural state. Staff members, volunteers, and partners conducted a resource inventory to identify sensitive areas before clearing any paths. The final design includes a half-mile hiking trail, several benches, and an interpretive kiosk at the entrance. This kiosk provides visitors with maps and educational information about the property.

Radford defines the site as a location for gentle recreation. This includes activities such as hiking and bird-watching. To protect the habitat, the trust prohibits motorized vehicles and restricts visits to daylight hours. The organization views this balance as essential to its mission of keeping the land preserved for future generations while allowing the public to connect with the local landscape.