Citizens for a Scenic Wisconsin, Inc 

Dedicated to preserving and enhancing the scenic character of Wisconsin's communities and countryside.

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Rustic Roads

Citizens for a Scenic Wisconsin strongly supports the WisDOT Rustic Roads program.

Currently there are 114 Rustic Roads across the State with 41 counties having 2 or more Rustic Roads, 16 counties having just 1, and 15 counties sadly having none. The top 5 counties with the most Rustic Roads are: Racine County (7), Polk County (6), Walworth County (5), Burnett County (4), Green County (4) and St Croix County (4).

To qualify for the Rustic Road program, a road:

  • should have outstanding natural features along its borders such as rugged terrain, native vegetation, native wildlife, or include open areas with agricultural vistas which singly or in combination uniquely set this road apart from other roads.

  • should be a lightly traveled local access road, one which serves the adjacent property owners and those wishing to travel by auto, bicycle, or hiking for purposes of recreational enjoyment of its rustic features.

  • should be one not scheduled nor anticipated for major improvements which would change its rustic characteristics.

  • should have, preferably, a minimum length of 2 miles and, where feasible, should provide a completed closure or loop, or connect to major highways at both ends of the route.

A Rustic Road may be dirt, gravel or paved road. It may be one-way or two-way. It may also have bicycle or hiking paths adjacent to or incorporated in the roadway area.

The maximum speed limit on a Rustic Road has been established by law at 45 mph. A speed limit as low as 30 mph may be established by the local governing authority. 

To obtain Rustic Road designation isn't difficult, but it requires positive efforts by local citizens and their governments. Initiate and circulate petitions among resident property owners along your favorite road to have it designated a Rustic Road. Work with civic, recreational and environmental groups to publicize and encourage the success of the Rustic Roads program.

The application information page includes a letter to prospective applicants explaining the Rustic Roads Program, petition, description and resolution forms to use in working with local government officials, and the state administrative codes governing the program.   More information can be obtained by contacting your town chairman, county highway commissioner, Rustic Roads Board members and by going to the WisDOT contact information page.

Citizens for a Scenic Wisconsin believes there are many potential Rustic Roads in our beautiful State. We are ready to assist any communities that want to put together a proposal. We also believe there are a number of potential Federal and State highways that could easily qualify for designation as Scenic Byways. The combination of Scenic Byway and Rustic Roads designations provide many benefits to the local tourism economy and quality of life. 

Revised December 21, 2008