Trail Overview
This trail is primarily made up of a challenging rock garden, with rock obstacles reaching up to four feet tall in some sections. It's a great route for experienced drivers looking to test their rig's articulation, clearance, and crawling ability. The main rock garden offers little forgiveness and will require precise tire placement, solid spotting, and full vehicle protection. On one end of the trail, there is a downhill dirt section that leads directly into Sauna Rocks. For those not looking to take on the full rock garden challenge, an alternate line is available. This easier bypass will allow you to skip the larger obstacles and still reach Sauna Rocks, making the trail accessible to a wider range of builds and driver experience levels.
Difficulty
This trail offers a mix of intensity and flexibility. The main route runs through a rugged rock garden, with boulders reaching up to four feet tall demanding serious ground clearance, careful tire placement, and experienced driving. That said, there's also an easier bypass available for those not ready to take on the full crawl. This alternate line skips the heaviest obstacles, making the trail approachable for a variety of setups while still delivering a rewarding off-road experience.
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.
