West Devil Track Camp

- Superior Hiking Trail, Grand Marais, MN 55604

For Minnesotans seeking a truly immersive North Woods backpacking experience, West Devil Track Camp stands out as a prime stopover along the legendary Superior Hiking Trail (SHT). Located in the scenic, rugged terrain near Grand Marais, this site is a quintessential example of the SHT’s dedicated backcountry camping system. It is not a roadside facility but a hike-in sanctuary, maintained specifically for foot traffic moving along the trail.

West Devil Track Camp adheres to the fundamental principles of SHT camping: it is entirely free, requires no permits, and operates on a non-reservable, first-come, first-served basis. This commitment to accessibility ensures that the wilderness remains open to all who are willing to earn the experience through hiking. The site is a favorite among hikers for its immediate proximity to a vital water source—often described by users as "gorgeous flowing water"—and its location in a landscape that perfectly combines the tranquility of dense forest with the raw energy of the area's streams and rivers.

This camp is designed for self-sufficient hikers. Visitors must pack in all necessary supplies, including food storage equipment, and be ready to filter or treat their water. The experience is one of rustic simplicity, providing only the basic infrastructure (tent pads, fire ring, latrine) to minimize human impact on the pristine environment. West Devil Track Camp is the perfect place to drop your pack, rest your feet, and fully appreciate the raw, untamed beauty of the Minnesota North Shore wilderness.

West Devil Track Camp is situated directly on the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) footpath, inland from Lake Superior and within the expansive Superior National Forest area near Grand Marais, MN 55604. Its location in the northern sections of the trail means accessibility is strictly by hiking, requiring a planned section hike or a through-hike from one of the many SHT trailheads.

The site is specifically located within the Devil Track River valley, a key geographical feature of the area. This valley is known for its steep ascents and descents, providing both physical challenges and spectacular views of the rugged landscape. The campsite is nestled low enough to be near a significant creek or river—the "gorgeous flowing water" mentioned in reviews—which is a major advantage for resupply. The nearest major community for logistics and shuttles is Grand Marais, a hub for SHT hikers. Shuttle services are available along the trail, making it possible for local Minnesotans to organize a one-way section hike to or from the West Devil Track area.

Hikers should consult the official Superior Hiking Trail Guidebook or up-to-date maps for the precise mileage to the campsite from surrounding trailheads, such as those near the Cook County Airport area. The terrain in this area is a classic mix of rocky paths, wooded trails, and occasional steep climbs, meaning accessibility is dependent on the hiker’s fitness and preparedness for rugged North Shore hiking.

As a designated Superior Hiking Trail backcountry campsite, West Devil Track Camp provides simple, yet critical, infrastructure to support overnight backpackers while maintaining a low-impact footprint. The services focus on meeting immediate needs and adhering to wilderness ethics.

• Designated Tent Pads: The campsite features several cleared and relatively level areas for setting up tents. While capacity varies, SHT sites generally accommodate 2-5 tents, with sharing expected during peak season.
• Communal Fire Ring and Bench: A single, established fire ring is available for campfires and cooking, often accompanied by wooden benches for seating. All fires must be kept within this designated ring.
• Backcountry Latrine: A rustic, open-air latrine (outhouse without walls or a roof, essentially a designated pit toilet with a seat) is provided at a short distance from the main camping area for proper human waste disposal.
• Natural Water Source Access: The site is located close to a natural water source, confirmed by user reviews as having "gorgeous flowing water." All water must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption.
• Free and Open Access: The site requires no fees, reservations, or permits to use, promoting equitable access to the wilderness for all local hikers.

The true highlights of West Devil Track Camp lie in its exceptional natural setting and strategic position on the trail.

• Stunning Water Access: The most frequently praised feature is its immediate proximity to "gorgeous flowing water." This is an outstanding highlight, as a strong, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing water source is a premium feature on the SHT.
• Excellent Hiking Access: Reviews specifically mention "awesome hiking." The surrounding trails are part of the challenging and rewarding Devil Track River valley section, offering varied terrain, steep climbs, and potentially panoramic views of the Superior National Forest.
• Secluded Forest Setting: Nestled deep within the forest, the camp offers a private and tranquil experience, allowing hikers to fully escape urban distractions and enjoy the sounds of the wilderness.
• Ideal for Hammock Campers: Like many SHT sites, the dense forest cover likely provides suitable tree spacing for hammock setups, offering comfort and flexibility to various camping styles.
• Low-Impact Camping: By adhering to the SHTA's strict Leave No Trace protocol, the campsite itself remains pristine, allowing nature's beauty to be the primary focus of the stay.

Since West Devil Track Camp is a self-service backcountry site, direct contact information for the location is not available. Planning and safety information should be obtained from the trail and land management organizations.

Address:

Superior Hiking Trail

(Devil Track River Valley Section)

Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA

For Maps, Trail Conditions, and Safety (Superior Hiking Trail Association):

Note: For general SHT information, including updates on trail closures or conditions that may affect access to West Devil Track Camp, the SHTA is the authoritative resource. Consult their website or purchase a current guidebook/map before your trip.

West Devil Track Camp is perfectly suited for the Minnesota local because it represents an authentic, easily accessible slice of the state's most revered wilderness experience. For residents, the SHT is a local gem, and this camp offers the deep, rejuvenating solitude that the North Shore is famous for. The proximity to Grand Marais provides a convenient entry and exit point, allowing for shorter, weekend section hikes without extensive travel time.

The site’s highly rated water access and beautiful surroundings mean that the hard work of carrying a pack is richly rewarded with a stunning and comfortable place to spend the night. It encourages self-reliance—a value deeply appreciated in the state—and participation in the trail community through its shared, no-fee nature. Whether seeking a challenging climb through the Devil Track River valley or simply wanting a peaceful night by "gorgeous flowing water," this campsite offers an essential, unadulterated North Woods adventure right in Minnesota's backyard. It’s an ideal spot for experienced backpackers to connect with the rugged heart of the state.

West Devil Track Camp

Superior Hiking Trail, Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA