Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest Back Roads
Bluff country forest roads above the Mississippi
This maze of gravel forest roads winds through 200,000 acres of restored hardwood forest in Minnesota’s driftless bluff country. The main spine follows County Road 1 from Wabasha to La Crescent, with dozens of forest roads branching into hollows and up ridgetops. Forest Road 3182 climbs to the King’s Bluff overlook, while FR 3164 drops into Trout Valley where cold-water springs feed Class A trout streams. The route crosses dozens of limestone creek bottoms and climbs sandstone ridges that rise 500 feet above the Mississippi.
Moderate difficulty requiring high clearance for washouts and seasonal mud holes. Any time except winter when roads are unplowed, but spring turkey season and fall deer hunting see heavy traffic. No permits needed for driving, but hunting requires licenses. Fuel available in Wabasha, Winona, and La Crescent—carry extra for the forest roads. This is the closest thing Minnesota has to Ozark-style bluff country, with wild turkeys, timber rattlers, and some of the state’s best hardwood forests growing back from the clear-cut wasteland of the 1930s.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 85 mi / 136.8 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1380 ft |
| Best season | April-November |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance vehicle |
| Nearest town | Wabasha, Minnesota |
| Land manager | Minnesota Department of Natural Resources |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Decent |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need 4WD for the Richard J. Dorer forest roads or will high clearance 2WD work?
High-clearance 2WD will handle most of the gravel roads fine in dry conditions. 4WD becomes useful after heavy rains when the clay sections get slippery and the water crossings get deeper.
Are these forest roads passable in winter?
The roads aren't maintained for winter travel and can become impassable with snow and ice. Stick to April through November for reliable access.
Do I need permits to camp in the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest?
No permits required for dispersed camping on state forest land. Just follow Leave No Trace principles and camp away from water sources and trails.
What's the most challenging part of this 85-mile route?
The steeper descents into creek valleys can get rutted and loose, especially after rain. Take your time on the downhills and watch for washouts near the water crossings.
How deep are the water crossings and should I worry about getting stuck?
Most crossings are shallow seasonal creeks that barely touch your running boards in normal conditions. Spring snowmelt or heavy rains can make them deeper, so scout on foot if water looks questionable.