Chequamegon National Forest Forest Road 390 Flambeau River Loop
Flambeau River wilderness logging road loop
Forest Road 390 cuts deep into the Chequamegon’s most remote section, following the South Fork Flambeau River through country that still echoes with the sound of crosscut saws and river drives. The 18-mile loop winds past remnants of the old Camp 41 logging operation, where massive white pines once fed the mills downstream. Expect multiple creek crossings, including a potentially tricky ford at Bear Creek where spring runoff can make things interesting. The route passes through stands of second-growth timber and opens into beaver meadows that offer glimpses of the river valley’s wild character.
This is moderate territory that requires high-clearance 4WD and experience reading water levels at creek crossings. Late summer through fall offers the most predictable conditions, though mosquitoes can be brutal in July. No permits needed, but fuel up in Park Falls before heading in — nearest services are 40 miles away. The payoff is classic Northwoods solitude, excellent brook trout fishing, and scattered primitive camping spots along the river. Bring bug spray and a good map; GPS can get sketchy in the heavy timber.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1680 ft |
| Best season | August-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Park Falls, Wisconsin |
| Land manager | USDA Forest Service |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| 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
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.
Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or F-150 handle Forest Road 390?
Yes, any stock truck or SUV with 4WD and high clearance will do fine. The surface is dirt with some ruts and rocks, but nothing technical.
Is the trail accessible in spring or early summer?
Avoid May through July - the trail gets swampy and mosquito-infested. August through October offers the best conditions with dry ground and fewer bugs.
Do I need permits or pay fees for the Flambeau River Loop?
No permits or fees required. It's open Forest Service land, but follow Leave No Trace principles and fire restrictions.
What's the toughest part of this trail?
The water crossings can be sketchy after heavy rain, and some sections get rutted from logging traffic. Nothing extreme, but take your time at creek crossings.
Can I camp anywhere along the loop and how's the cell coverage?
Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the forest - plenty of spots near the river. Zero cell service once you're in there, so download maps beforehand.