Superior National Forest Temperance River Backcountry Road

Forest Road 336 traces the Temperance River inland from its famous gorge at Lake Superior, climbing through some of the most pristine old-growth forest remaining in Minnesota. This challenging 22-mile route starts just north of Schroeder and immediately plunges into dense canopy where 400-year-old white pines tower overhead. The road follows the river’s course through a series of granite-walled pools and cascades, crossing the main stem twice on narrow timber bridges that require precise wheel placement. Carlton Peak’s granite dome looms to the south as you navigate washouts and fallen timber.

This is serious backcountry requiring high-clearance 4WD and recovery gear. Spring snowmelt and fall rains turn the clay sections into axle-deep quagmires. Late summer offers the best conditions, but expect slow going over exposed bedrock and through tight timber stands. Excellent dispersed camping exists along the river, though you’ll need to pack everything in. No cell service once you leave the highway, and the road officially ends at the Boundary Waters Canoe Area wilderness boundary.