Mudpuppy

Total Miles
0.1

Technical Rating

6

Moderate

Best Time

Spring, Summer, Fall

Trail Type

Full-Width Road

Accessible By

Trail Overview

This trail may be short in length, but it makes up for it with one major challenge--deep water and mud. Right from the start, drivers are met with a flooded section that can be deceptively deep, depending on recent rainfall. While there is a bypass available, it's not without its own hazards. The bypass itself also has a decent amount of water and mud, and beneath the surface lies a hidden rock obstacle that must be climbed without clear visibility. Because of this, careful tire placement and momentum control are key. This isn't a trail to take lightly, even if it's brief.

Photos of Mudpuppy

Mudpuppy
Mudpuppy

Difficulty

Despite being short, this trail presents real challenges due to deep water and mud sections. The main path can be heavily flooded, and while a bypass exists, it also contains mud and a concealed rock obstacle that must be negotiated without visual guidance. Proper ground clearance is helpful, and drivers should proceed with caution.

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.

Technical Rating

6

Status Reports

There are no status reports yet for this trail.

Mudpuppy can be accessed by the following ride types:

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

Access Description

The Iron Range OHV Recreation Area is located in Gilbert, Minnesota. From US-53, take the Gilbert exit and follow Highway 37 east into town. Turn north on Wisconsin Avenue, then right onto Enterprise Trail. The main trailhead and staging area features a large gravel lot with room for trucks and trailers, portable toilets, and the DNR office for information and checking in. This is the best place to unload and begin your ride.

Mudpuppy Map

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