St. Croix State Park Backcountry Drive
Minnesota's largest state park backcountry access
The St. Croix State Park Backcountry Drive follows 15 miles of gravel fire roads and maintenance tracks through Minnesota’s largest state park, offering access to remote corners most visitors never see. The route winds past hidden lakes, abandoned Civilian Conservation Corps camps from the 1930s, and provides stunning overlooks of the wild and scenic St. Croix River valley. Fire Tower Road climbs to the historic Chengwatana Fire Tower, offering panoramic views across 34,000 acres of pristine hardwood forest and wetlands.
This is easy driving suitable for any high-clearance vehicle, with well-maintained gravel surfaces throughout. Spring offers the best wildflower displays while fall brings spectacular color, though the roads are passable year-round except during major snow events. The park requires a vehicle permit, and camping is restricted to designated sites. The real draw is accessing Minnesota’s wilderness heart without the crowds, with opportunities for wildlife photography and peaceful riverside camping along the St. Croix’s undeveloped banks.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 15 mi / 24.1 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1100 ft |
| Best season | April-November |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Hinckley, Minnesota |
| Land manager | Minnesota State Parks |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| 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 Subaru Outback handle this trail?
Yes, any stock vehicle with decent ground clearance will do fine on this graded gravel road. It's basically a well-maintained forest service road through the park.
Is the backcountry drive open during winter?
No, the backcountry roads are typically closed from December through March due to snow and frost conditions. Best access is April through November.
Do I need a permit or pass for the backcountry drive?
Yes, you need a valid Minnesota State Park vehicle permit to access any roads within St. Croix State Park. Daily or annual passes available at park entrance.
What's the most challenging part of this drive?
There really isn't one - this is a gentle gravel road with minimal elevation change. The biggest challenge might be mud during spring thaw or after heavy rains.
Are there backcountry camping spots along the drive?
The park has designated backcountry campsites accessible via this route, but you must reserve them in advance through the Minnesota State Parks system. No dispersed camping allowed.