County Road EEM

Trail Overview

EEM Road is a county road that curves away from East State Highway M-35 and connects to North Cataract Road. It is classified as a non-DNR road with a private owner. The surface consists of dirt, sand, and native material, and the overall condition is considered fair. Since it is not a DNR road, ORV use is subject to local government laws. The road remains open under the current closure criteria.

Photos of County Road EEM

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Difficulty

Unmaintained dirt road. You may encounter shallow water crossings after recent rainfall and/ or obstacles such as branches under 12 inches on the trail. This route is typically one to two vehicles wide.

History

Cataract Basin's history revolves around its hydroelectric dam, built in 1929 by Cleveland Cliffs Mining Co. to serve Gwinn's mining operations. The dam creates a reservoir on the Middle Branch Escanaba River, with water cascading over a natural spillway to the Cataract Falls. After falling into disuse, the plant was restored in 2016 by Renewable World Energies LLC and now operates efficiently, powering the area.

Technical Rating

County Road EEM can be accessed by the following ride types:

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