Superior National Forest Forest Road 133 Devil Track River Loop
Devil Track River wilderness technical loop
Forest Road 133 winds through some of the most remote country in Minnesota’s Superior National Forest, following the Devil Track River upstream from Grand Portage Bay. The route passes through dense boreal forest before opening into the Boundary Waters wilderness fringe, with the notorious Devil Track Falls requiring careful navigation around exposed granite ledges. Multiple river crossings test both driver skill and vehicle clearance, while the old logging grades climb through stands of birch and aspen toward the Canadian border.
This is legitimate technical territory requiring high clearance and 4WD low range for the river fords and granite outcrops. Best tackled May through September when water levels drop, though black flies will remind you why the old loggers called this devil’s country. No permits required, but fuel up in Grand Portage — cell service disappears after the first crossing. The payoff is pristine wilderness camping and some of the best brook trout water in the North Shore region.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Rock |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1850 ft |
| Best season | May-September |
| Minimum vehicle | 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Grand Portage, Minnesota |
| Land manager | Superior National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle the technical sections of FR 133?
Yes, a stock Wrangler will make it through, but you'll need careful line selection on the rocky climbs and good spotter work for the water crossings. Skid plates recommended.
Is Devil Track River Loop accessible in early spring or late fall?
Trail is typically snow-free May through September, but spring snowmelt makes water crossings deeper and more dangerous. Late fall weather can close access quickly.
Do I need permits for the Superior National Forest backcountry?
No permits required for day use or dispersed camping, but follow Leave No Trace principles and camp 150 feet from water sources.
What's the most challenging part of this 18-mile loop?
The multiple Devil Track River crossings can be tricky with rocky bottoms and varying depths depending on recent rainfall. Scout each crossing on foot first.
How far should I plan for fuel range on this remote loop?
Bring extra fuel - Grand Portage is your last gas stop and you'll have zero cell service for emergency assistance throughout the entire 18-mile wilderness loop.