Superior Hiking Trail Forest Road Access Loop
Forgotten logging roads to Superior Trail solitude
Deep in the Superior National Forest, a network of overgrown logging roads connects isolated sections of the Superior Hiking Trail between Finland and Silver Bay. The route follows old Forest Road 166 and connecting spurs through dense boreal forest, crossing Baptism River twice and navigating around beaver ponds that have reclaimed sections of roadway. Mill Creek crossing requires careful line selection during spring runoff.
This moderate route demands high clearance and 4WD for the creek crossings and muddy sections that persist well into summer. Best tackled May through October when frost isn’t heaving the road surface. No permits required, but fuel up in Finland — it’s 40 miles to the next gas. Rewards include solitude few Minnesota trails offer and access to pristine brook trout streams that see maybe a dozen anglers per season.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 28 mi / 45.1 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1680 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Finland, Minnesota |
| Land manager | Superior National Forest |
| 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
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