To be considered at the Fall 2026 Rustic Roads Board meeting, nominations must be received by Friday, August 7.
As you drive, hike or bike the Wisconsin countryside, you may discover a road you think should be included in the Rustic Roads program. To qualify for the Rustic Road program, a road must:
- 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.
- 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.
- not be 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.
The nomination process begins with local support (a Resolution). It must include photos of the route, a map, and a Rustic Road Description form. It can also include an optional petition form with signatures from resident landowners along the road or in the county or governmental unit that has jurisdiction over the road.
Upon approval of the Resolution, the local governing body submits the application materials listed below as well as photos of the road. The Rustic Roads Board reviews the application and has final approval authority over the designation. Its approval makes the designation official.
Please see our Frequently Asked Questions document to learn more about Rustic Road designation.
Rustic Road petition form (DT1037)
Official petition form sent to prospective applicants who are requesting designation of a potential Rustic Road. This optional form is used to document support for designation.
Rustic Road description form (DT1038)
Official form requiring road description, technical information and outstanding historical, natural and rustic features. This form is used by Rustic Roads Board in their designation decisions.
Rustic Road resolution form (DT1039)
Official form for city, village, town, or county highway commission stating support of Rustic Road designation. A signed resolution form is a requirement without which the Rustic Roads Board will not consider the application.
Rustic Roads Administrative Code
The formal program rules governing the Rustic Road program.
For questions on the application process or program content, contact:
Liat Bonneville, Rustic Roads Coordinator
Wisconsin Department of Transportation
4822 Madison Yards Way, 6th Floor South
P.O. Box 7913
Madison, WI 53705
Phone: (608) 267-3614
Fax: (608) 267-0294
WIRusticRoads@dot.wi.gov