Chippewa National Forest Fire Tower Loop

This loop connects four operational and historic fire towers through Chippewa National Forest via a network of forest service roads dating to the 1930s. The route passes Wabedo Fire Tower, then winds through jack pine and aspen stands to reach Dove and Gull Lake towers, with the final stretch hitting the vintage steel tower at Washburn Lake. Forest Road 2181 and connecting two-tracks take you through country that burned in the great fires of 1918, now regenerated into prime wildlife habitat.

Easy to moderate difficulty with sandy sections that can get soft after rain. Any high-clearance vehicle handles it fine, though 4WD helps in the sand. Open year-round but best May through September when towers are staffed. No permits required, fuel available in Grand Rapids or Walker. Multiple camping options including developed campgrounds and dispersed sites. You’re following the same roads fire crews used to protect millions of acres of timber, with views from tower cabs spanning the entire Northland.