Last updated: July 17, 2024
Thing to Do
Hike Kab-Ash Trail
![A narrow creek surrounded by tall, green vegetation with pine trees in the background.](/common/uploads/cropped_image/primary/F2A3C2FC-E04C-A77C-AC50A1B668F914F6.jpg?width=1300&quality=90&mode=crop)
C.Meridith/NPS
This long-distance hiking trail connects the Kabetogama and Ash River communities. Travel through backcountry forests and wetlands on this extensive system of interconnected trails. With four trailheads, you can explore smaller sections, or for the adventurous, a thru-hike is possible.
Note, depending on the time of year and changing conditions, this trail can be narrow and overgrown with vegetation. Good way-finding skills are often necessary through the forest and swamp areas, including wayfinding for trail continuation off open rock outcroppings that are marked with rock cairn.
Like other National Park wilderness trails, hikers travel at their own risk and should not solely depend on rock cairns and other human-made trail markings for navigation. Be prepared with proper food, water, clothing, footwear and insect repellant depending on the season. Early spring and fall, when biting insects may be less predominate, are the recommended times to experience this trail. Visit one of our visitor centers to learn rangers' insights and favorite sections to day hike.
With appropriate gear and advance planning, one can also camp overnight along the trail at any of its 2 primitive campsites. The Kab-Ash Trail is the only trail system in the park where one can enjoy a backcountry camping experience that doesn’t require a boat to access. For more information and to make primitive camping reservations, visit the Primitive Camping page.
This long-distance hiking trail connects the Kabetogama and Ash River communities. Travel through backcountry forests and wetlands on this extensive system of interconnected trails. With four trailheads, you can explore smaller sections, or for the adventurous, a thru-hike is possible.
The Kab-Ash Trail has four trailheads.
Near Ash River Visitor Center: 48.422369, -92.846119
Ash River Trail: 48.389997, -92.921263
Ash River Community: 48.412006, -92.795019
CURRENTLY CLOSED Salmi Road: 48.421208, -93.032851