Arbutus - FS 3144

Trail Overview

Federal Forest Service Road (FS) 3144, also known as Arbutus Truck Trail, is a federally owned/ locally maintained, Level-2/ Level-3 forest road with a surface composition of dirt, sand, gravel, and native material. This route is currently open and in fair condition; it is not a DNR road (ORV use is subject to local government regulations) that connects M-1213 to FS 3012, FS 3712, FS 3358, FS 3081 + Spurs: 3081A,B,C,D and Spurs: 3144 A, B, C, D to West Basnau Road. Description created on September 11, 2025.

Photos of Arbutus - FS 3144

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Difficulty

Dirt, gravel, sandy road, typically unmaintained after rain or snow that may give rise to shallow water crossings and obstacles under 12 inches on the trail, including small ledges. This road is typically one to two vehicles in width, with some portions narrowing down to a "Two Track" road.

History

Arbutus Creek Truck Trail was developed as part of the infrastructure projects undertaken by Camp Raco (Company 667), a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp established in 1933. The trail was built to facilitate forestry tasks, including fire pre-suppression, tree planting, and improving access to the surrounding Hiawatha National Forest area. Origin: The truck trail was part of the "track and trail construction" projects initiated by the CCC to manage the forest, following President Roosevelt's New Deal Plan. Purpose: It provided crucial access for fire suppression and forest management in the Raco area. Context: Camp Raco also housed German prisoners of war during WWII and was involved in various conservation projects before being phased out.

Technical Rating

Arbutus - FS 3144 can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike