Heino Road

Trail Overview

This trail is divided into two distinct sections, each offering a different driving experience. The first portion lies east of the paved highway and consists of wide, well-maintained gravel that passes through a patchwork of fields and forest. This section primarily serves local residents and is actively used by farmers and loggers, so traffic may include agricultural or forestry vehicles. After crossing the wide paved highway and the railway crossing, the trail narrows considerably and transitions into a more remote and scenic stretch. On the western side of the highway, the trail becomes more enclosed by forest and offers a quieter drive. Early along this section, there are a few rural homesteads, but as you continue, the trail grows narrower and more overgrown. Despite the encroaching vegetation, the surface remains mostly smooth gravel with some moderate ascents and descents. While driving through this forested area, we observed an eagle feeding on a deer carcass in a field near the trail, accompanied by several crows, a reminder of the area's thriving wildlife. The trail eventually connects to the more rugged 248 off-road route and terminates at a corner adjacent to another trail junction. Be aware that some sections of this route are prone to flooding in June, so extra caution is advised during wetter months. Heino Trail does not offer any formal or dispersed camping facilities and lacks amenities such as potable water, trash disposal, and restrooms. Cell service is limited or unavailable in parts of the trail.

Photos of Heino Road

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Difficulty

This trail is well-maintained and regularly used by other OHV riders, road users, including residents in the area.

History

Superior National Forest was established in 1909 by President Theodore Roosevelt to protect the region's watersheds and natural resources after years of heavy logging and mining. The area has long been home to the Ojibwe people, who continue to maintain cultural ties to the land. In 1978, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness within the forest was given added protection, making it one of the most visited wilderness areas in the U.S. today.

Technical Rating

Heino Road can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV