Trail Overview
This trail features a very steep and demanding hill climb at both ends that will test both your vehicle and driving skills. One of the most challenging sections includes a sharp S-turn on an incline, made more difficult by exposed tree roots from erosion that can unsettle your tires and throw you off your line if you're not careful. Additionally, you'll encounter large rock shelves along the way, some up to two feet tall, that require solid ground clearance and precise tire placement to navigate safely. These shelves can be particularly tricky when descending or ascending at an angle, increasing the risk of getting hung up or a roll over. This trail is not recommended for stock vehicles and is best suited for experienced drivers in well-equipped rigs with proper recovery gear, low gearing, and confidence on technical climbs.
Difficulty
This is a high-difficulty trail meant for experienced drivers and well-built rigs. The steep incline alone is enough to challenge most vehicles, but the real test comes in the tight S-turn filled with exposed tree roots; one wrong move here can throw your line off quickly. Add in rock shelves up to two feet tall, and you've got a section where clearance, articulation, and tire placement all matter. Getting hung up or off-balance is a real possibility if you're not dialed in. This trail isn't just a climb; it's a technical crawl that demands attention, precision, and capability from start to finish.
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.
