Superior National Forest Forest Road 172 Cascade Loop
Technical North Shore backcountry through old-growth
Forest Road 172 cuts deep into the Cascade River watershed, threading between towering white pines that survived the fires of 1918. The route starts just inland from Highway 61 near Lutsen and climbs steadily through mixed hardwood forest before hitting the first real obstacle at Deer Yard Creek—a rock-ledge crossing that’ll test your line choice. Past the creek, the road deteriorates into a boulder-strewn track that winds through old-growth cedar swamps where moose tracks outnumber tire tracks.
This is genuine technical driving that demands experienced hands and a well-built rig with rock sliders and skid plates. Best tackled May through September when the swamps aren’t frozen solid. No permits needed, but fuel up in Grand Marais—there’s nothing out here but wilderness. The payoff is untouched backcountry camping spots along the Cascade River and some of the most pristine old-growth forest left in Minnesota.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Rock |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1650 ft |
| Best season | May-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Built 4WD with armor |
| Nearest town | Lutsen, Minnesota |
| Land manager | US Forest Service |
| 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
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle Forest Road 172?
No, this trail requires built 4WD with skid plates and rock sliders minimum. The technical rock sections and water crossings will damage stock vehicles.
Is Forest Road 172 open in early May?
Usually not until mid-to-late May due to muddy conditions from snowmelt. Contact Superior National Forest for current conditions before heading out.
Do I need permits to camp along the Cascade Loop?
No permits required for dispersed camping in Superior National Forest. Follow Leave No Trace principles and camp at least 150 feet from water sources.
What's the hardest section of the trail?
The multiple creek crossings mid-trail can be tricky with rocky bottoms and potential for high water after rain. Water depth varies seasonally.
How many water crossings should I expect?
Several creek crossings throughout the 18-mile loop, with water depth typically 6-18 inches depending on recent rainfall and snowmelt conditions.