Superior National Forest Split Rock River Road
Deep forest gorge with technical creek crossings
Split Rock River Road cuts deep into the Superior National Forest backcountry, following an old logging route that dead-ends at one of Minnesota’s most dramatic river gorges. The 12-mile forest service road starts deceptively easy from Highway 61, but quickly deteriorates into a rocky, root-strewn track that demands high clearance and 4WD. Three creek crossings mark the route’s technical highlights, with Split Rock Creek itself requiring careful line choice during spring runoff.
This is moderate-to-difficult terrain requiring a capable 4WD with skid plates and recovery gear. Best tackled May through October when water levels drop and the road firms up. No permits needed, but fuel up in Grand Marais — nearest services are 40 miles away. Multiple primitive camping spots line the river, offering complete solitude and world-class trout fishing. The payoff is worth the beating: a pristine gorge where Split Rock River carves through ancient volcanic bedrock, far from the crowds hitting the North Shore’s popular waterfalls.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1850 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | 4WD high-clearance with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Grand Marais, 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
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.
Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle the creek crossings on Split Rock River Road?
Yes, a stock Wrangler with skid plates will do fine. The crossings are technical but not deep, requiring good line choice and steady throttle control.
Is Split Rock River Road open in winter?
No, the road is typically closed from November through April due to snow and freezing conditions. Best access is May through October when creek levels are manageable.
Do I need any permits to run Split Rock River Road?
No permits required. This is a designated forest service road within Superior National Forest, free to access for day use and dispersed camping.
What's the hardest part of this trail?
The multiple creek crossings through the gorge section require careful navigation over slippery rocks with potential for body damage if you pick the wrong line.
Are there good dispersed camping spots along the route?
Yes, several established sites exist near the river with fire rings. Best spots are about 8 miles in where the trail opens up before the technical gorge section.