Trail Overview
This trail features two steep hill climbs separated by a rugged rock garden, making it a technical challenge from start to finish. The first climb has two large, embedded rocks that can disrupt traction and force you to carefully work your way up without spinning out. After that, you enter the rock garden, filled with boulders reaching up to three feet tall. This section will test your vehicle's undercarriage armor, suspension articulation, and tire placement skills. The second hill climb is even steeper and features a jagged rock near the top that sticks out roughly two feet. Keeping traction is key here--bounce the wrong way, and you risk sliding off your line or potentially rolling over if your center of gravity isn't dialed in.
Difficulty
This trail is best suited for highly modified off-road rigs with excellent suspension flex, large tires (37"+), and full underbody protection (skid plates, rock sliders, etc.). The combination of steep ascents, embedded boulders up to 3 feet tall, and traction-compromising terrain makes it a technical challenge. Drivers must have advanced skills in line selection and throttle control. The second hill climb includes an off-camber section with a protruding rock that may cause rollovers for vehicles with a high center of gravity. Lockers and a winch are strongly recommended.
History
The Iron Range OHV Recreation Area was built on reclaimed mining land, once part of the rich Mesabi Iron Range that fueled U.S. steel production for over a century. Today, this 1,200+ acre site blends industrial history with outdoor adventure, offering a rare chance to ride through the remnants of Minnesota's mining legacy.
