Superior National Forest Gunflint Trail Extension
Deep forest roads into Superior's wild heart
Past the pavement’s end on the Gunflint Trail, Forest Road 152 splits into a web of logging roads that penetrate deep into Superior National Forest’s million-acre wilderness. The main artery follows old timber routes past Seagull Lake and into the Boundary Waters corridor, where you’ll cross Saganaga Creek and thread between granite outcrops that define this ancient shield country. Key waypoints include the Magnetic Rock overlook and the ruins of the old Paulson Mine.
This moderate route demands high-clearance vehicles and decent ground clearance for rocky sections and seasonal water crossings. Best tackled May through October when frost isn’t heaving the forest roads apart. No permits needed for the drive itself, but camping requires BWCAW permits if you venture into designated wilderness. Fuel up in Grand Marais—it’s 60 miles to the next gas. What you get is solitude, pristine boreal forest, and access to some of Minnesota’s most remote country without needing a canoe.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 34 mi / 54.7 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1840 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Grand Marais, Minnesota |
| Land manager | Superior National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Cherokee handle this trail?
Yes, a stock Cherokee with high clearance and 4WD will handle most sections fine. The rocky sections and occasional mud holes might scrape your skid plates but nothing that'll strand you.
Is the trail passable after snowmelt in early May?
Hit or miss in early May - the low spots turn into swampy messes and some sections stay muddy well into late May. Wait until Memorial Day weekend for more predictable conditions.
Do I need permits to camp along this route?
No permits required for dispersed camping in Superior National Forest. Just follow standard leave-no-trace rules and camp 150+ feet from water sources.
What's the gnarliest section I should watch for?
The creek crossings about 18 miles in get sketchy after heavy rain - rocky bottoms with potential for high water. Scout on foot if you're unsure about depth.
How far can I get from Grand Marais on a tank of gas?
Fill up in Grand Marais - you'll burn more fuel in 4WD low range, and the nearest gas after that is back in town or 50+ miles north in Canada.