Whether you’re taking a peaceful walk, enjoying nature with your dog, or spending time outdoors with family and friends, the Branch Lake Public Forest is one of Ellsworth’s special places.
Covering more than 800 acres with over three miles of recreational trails, the forest protects the City’s primary drinking water supply while providing opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors.
To help preserve this beautiful public space for everyone, the City has updated its visitor policies. Most are simple reminders that help protect the forest, its wildlife, and the watershed for generations to come.
Some of the key guidelines include:
🌲 Leave no trace—please pack out everything you bring in.
🐕 Keep dogs on a leash to help protect people, wildlife, and other pets.
🔥 Fires and camping are not permitted.
🚴 Bicycles and motorized vehicles are not allowed on the trails.
🌅 The forest is open from sunrise to sunset.
The full list of visitor policies, including information about hunting, tree stands, commercial activities, and volunteer opportunities, is available in the information sheet below.
📄 Please click the PDF below to review the complete Branch Lake Public Forest Visitor Policies.
Branch Lake Public Forest Visitor Policies_ July 2026
Thank you for helping us protect one of Ellsworth’s most treasured natural spaces.
