Trail Overview
This scenic trail is accessed from Blacks Winner Trail and features a well-maintained gravel surface bordered by neatly cut lawn verges. It is smooth and generally wide enough for two vehicles, making for an easy drive. Along the way, it passes a small number of private residences and includes a few clearings in the middle section of the route. The trail eventually enters the Hayes Lake State Park, where the surroundings become more wooded, and continues until it reaches Thompson Forest Road at its endpoint. While the drive is straightforward, caution should be exercised due to the possibility of encountering local traffic, particularly near residential areas. The route offers no formal campsites and lacks amenities such as trash disposal and a water supply, and cell service may be limited in parts of the trail. The consistent upkeep of the road and the blend of open and wooded sections make it a pleasant connection between these two points.
Difficulty
The trail is maintained but can develop light overgrowth between trims, especially in the summer months. Commonly used by local OHV traffic, the path remains visible and passable, though branches and low brush may occasionally encroach. During the spring thaw, Beltrami County enforces load limits to protect road integrity. Gravel roads, including River Forest Road, are typically restricted to 5 tons per axle during this period.
