Taconite State Trail OHV Connector
Iron Range railroad grade through mining country
Built on the bones of the old Duluth, Missabe & Iron Range Railway, this 165-mile trail runs the spine of Minnesota’s Iron Range from Grand Rapids to International Falls. The route passes active taconite mines near Keewatin, crosses the Mississippi River at Grand Rapids, and threads through the Superior National Forest. Mile marker 78 near Effie marks the transition from mining country to deep forest, where the grade cuts through black spruce bogs and crosses dozens of beaver ponds on elevated causeways.
Easy going for any ATV or side-by-side, though the crushed limestone surface can get muddy after rain. Open year-round but best from June to September when the bugs calm down and the surface firms up. Minnesota ATV registration required—no exceptions. Stock up on fuel at the trail towns; stretches between Effie and Orr run 40 miles without services. This is history you can drive: witness how the railroads carved up the north woods to feed America’s steel mills.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Historic, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 165 mi / 265.5 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1680 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | ATV/UTV |
| Nearest town | Grand Rapids, Minnesota |
| Land manager | Minnesota Department of Natural Resources |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can I drive this trail in a regular truck or SUV?
No, this is an ATV/UTV only trail. Full-size vehicles aren't allowed on the Taconite State Trail system.
Is the trail open year-round or just summer months?
Best access is June through September when conditions are dry. Winter sections may be impassable due to snow and wet conditions in spring/fall.
Do I need a permit to ride the Taconite State Trail?
Yes, you need a valid Minnesota ATV/OHV permit. Purchase online through the Minnesota DNR or at local license agents.
What's the most challenging part of this 165-mile trail?
Water crossings can be the trickiest sections, especially after heavy rains. Most of the trail is easy graded surface with minimal elevation changes.
Are there places to camp along the trail or do I need to find hotels?
Dispersed camping is allowed in designated areas along the trail. Several state forests intersect the route offering primitive camping opportunities.