Keeley Creek

This trail offers one of the more scenic routes within the Superior National Forest, beginning from New Tomahawk Trail and quickly crossing the Stony Spur ATV Trail. Not far from the start, it skirts a small lake that has been dammed by a beaver, which was actively working on its construction during our visit. The area shows signs of logging activity, though much of the surrounding forest remains intact. The trail travels through a varied landscape of mixed woods and low brush, eventually descending toward rocky outcrops and the lakeshore. The lake views are especially pleasant and worth the slow approach. The trail is unmaintained and consists of narrow, bumpy, rocky two-track with several eroded sections. Ascents and descents are frequent, and water collects in many places along the route, creating muddy patches that add a level of challenge. The route crosses another small lake that looks well suited to quiet fishing before entering the forest once again and opening into a clearing. This area is suitable for dispersed camping, though it is undeveloped. Two side trails continue from the clearing--one is overgrown and not passable, while the other is rocky, slightly off-camber, and heads toward another nearby lake. There are no formal campsites or services along the trail, and visitors should not expect trash removal, potable water, or reliable cell service.