Forestville: Mill Pond, Dam, and Ahnapee State Trail

Forestville offers several specific points to consider when planning a trip: Mill Pond at Forestville Dam Park, the Ahnapee River and its impoundment, and the 30-mile Ahnapee State Trail. There is also a connection to local history at Forestville Dam County Park, as well as a church in Maplewood. If you are looking for a vacation rental, you can first consider whether you want to spend your time on activities along the trail, the waterside landscape, or architecture and local history. These different themes give Forestville a clear identity.

Mill Pond, Dam, and Ahnapee River

The 13-acre Mill Pond is located at Forestville Dam Park and flows into the Ahnapee River. Forestville Dam County Park is a separate, specifically named park: it covers 79 acres and is next to Forestville Dam, Mill Pond, and the Ahnapee River. The figures therefore describe different areas—13 acres for Mill Pond and 79 acres for the county park. The Ahnapee River is a low-gradient flowing waterway; Forestville is also home to a 65-acre impoundment. Together, Mill Pond, the dam, the river, and the impoundment offer different points of interest if you want to center your plans on water and landscape.

The Ahnapee State Trail and its uses

The Ahnapee State Trail is 30 miles long and connects Sturgeon Bay, Forestville, Algoma, and Casco. It was formerly a railway line operated by the Ahnapee & Western Railway, so its use as a trail has a historical predecessor. Today, it is open to hiking, biking, running, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. These activities range from walking and cycling to horseback riding and winter sports. When planning your trip, it is therefore important to consider which of these options you want to focus on, rather than viewing the trail only as a hiking route. Trail users can park at Forestville Dam County Park, directly beside the Ahnapee State Trail.

Park history and historic architecture

In November 2008, the Door County Historical Society awarded Forestville Dam County Park a commemorative plaque in recognition of its significance to local history. Another historical connection is in the unincorporated community of Maplewood in Forestville Township/Village: St. Mary's Church, at 7491 County Highway H, was built in 1901 as a brick church in the Early Gothic Revival style and historically served as a place of worship. Its construction date, brickwork, and architectural style give the building a specific architectural context; the plaque, in turn, recognizes the county park's local significance. The park's history and the building's history thus highlight two different aspects of the area.

Which focus suits your plans?

The historical sites lead to the county park and the church in Maplewood. Consider which of these interests matters to your plans, and tailor your vacation rental search to what you would like to learn more about in Forestville.

Discover more destinations: Ephraim, Sturgeon Bay, Fish Creek, Sister Bay, Baileys Harbor.

Return to the main travel overview: Door County.