Chippewa National Forest Forest Road 2240 Turtle Mound Loop

Forest Road 2240 traces old logging railroad grades through the heart of Chippewa National Forest, connecting a network of sandy two-tracks that circle back to the sacred Turtle Mounds overlooking Leech Lake’s Boy Bay. These ancient earthworks, built by Woodland peoples over a thousand years ago, sit on a prominent ridge offering glimpses of the lake through towering red and white pines. The route passes several smaller burial mounds and the remnants of a 1920s logging camp.

Easy to moderate difficulty depending on recent rains that can turn the sandy sections soft and the clay stretches greasy. Any high-clearance vehicle handles it in dry conditions, but 4WD helps in spring and after heavy storms. Best seasons run May through September, though fall colors make October spectacular if you catch it before the first snow. Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the forest, with several established fire rings near the mounds area. Respect the cultural significance of the site and pack out everything.