Minnesota Trails Summer 2019 by Minnesota Trails Magazine

Tour De Bun

Paul Bunyan & Heartland Ride

Minnesota

Bikepacking The North Shore

TRAILS T h e P a r k s & Tr a i l s J o u r n a l

Summer 2019

w w w . M n Tr a i l s . c o m

Bike Trails

Tr ai Pa l Bu ge ild 5 er

Top Bike Rides

Crosby - Ironton - Deerwood Bay Lake - Cuyuna - Emily 522 Sinclair Lewis Avenue Sauk Centre, MN 56378

www.MnTrails.com Minnesota Trails Staff Jan Lasar Editor/Publisher Joyce Frericks Accounting Brian Dingmann Page Layout & Design Graphic Design

Editorial Board Brett Feldman Executive Director Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota

Vol. 24, No. 2 May 2019 Minnesota Trails magazine is a continuation of Minnesota Bike Trails & Rides, published quarterly in cooperation with the Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota, a nonprofit organization that acquires, protects and enhances critical lands for public enjoyment. Your $35 membership subscription supports this work. Minnesota Trails is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials and reserves the right to reject unsuitable advertising. Information in this publication is as accurate as possible. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not of Minnesota Trails.

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Minnesota Trails

Index Features

Columns

Departments

Tale of Two Trails Molly Brewer Hoeg

10 Vitáme Vás Means Welcome Jan Lasar

18 It’s Just What We Do Now Kimberly Boustead

Cover photo: Riding through the Chippewa National Forest on the Mi Gi Zi Trail. Jan Lasar photo

Minnesota Miles Jan Lasar

Letter from the Executive Director Brett Feldman

Index photo: View of the Cannon Falls grain elevator on the Mill Towns Trail. Jan Lasar photo

Parks & Trails Council News Lisa Filter

Trails Q&A Conversations with Trail Users

12 Bike Ride Guide Bike Events June-October

21 Bike Trail Guide Maps and Information

46 MN Trails Map The State at a Glance

47 Business Directory Find Trail-Friendly Businesses

Thank yous! Find us on:

Minnesota Trails

Summer 2019 3

Marching Forward An unusual message Minnesota Miles Michelle Pierson, popped into my email Executive Director of the inbox last week. Someone Gitchi-Gami Trail Association, (who would like to remain says in 2006 the trail was 26.6 anonymous-let’s call her miles long. “Compared with Sandy) reached out to get a the 30.2 miles on the ground new copy of Trails and was today,” she says, “progress wondering where to pick one has been slow, because of up. This happens all the time the North Shore’s challenging and isn’t out of the ordinary. terrain, the loss of trail The astonishing thing was supporter Congressman Jim that the new copy was to Oberstar and a federal change Jan Lasar Trails Editor/Publisher replace an issue Sandy had in funding for local projects.” been holding on to since According to Pierson, the link 2006. She was planning a trip to the between Gooseberry Falls and Split North Shore with her daughters and Rock Lighthouse State Parks has been wanted some updated information on the most important step, creating a the Gitchi-Gami Trail. continuous stretch of 14 miles between I immediately went into the two popular tourist destinations. But it’s archives and started paging through the impossible to estimate when the Gitchi2006 summer issue to see exactly how Gami Trail’s 89 miles will be complete. far our trails have come in the last 13 “I’m in my early forties and I sure years. hope we can see the trail completed Some haven’t changed at all, like the before I’m too old to ride my bike,” Sakatah Singing Hills Trail, the Central Pierson says. Lakes Trail or the Cannon Valley Trail. On the Iron Range, the Mesabi Others, like the Brown’s Creek Trail or Trail has grown rapidly since the Soo Line Trail, didn’t exist in 2006. 2006 and its length has increased And there are a host of others, which from 75 to the current 135 miles. are works in progress, like the Gitchi- Ardy Nurmi-Wilberg has been the Gami Trail on Sandy’s bike vacation list. Executive Director of Club Mesabi, the trail’s friends group, since 2009 and credits this success to an ambitious plan of building five to ten miles of trail a year, and the work of many supporters on the local and state levels. “Kudos to the folks that have worked hard to get permits and easements and identified funding sources,” she says. She can’t point to one event that defined the trail’s development, to her it’s “Just the fact that the darn thing is 135 miles long.” Nurmi-Wilberg is confident that the final 25 to 30 miles will be completed in the next three to five years and the trail will then span roughly 160 miles between Grand Rapids and Ely. “We have to keep that forward march going,” she says. New Giant Welcome Center and The Lake Wobegon Trail in central Museum right off the trails on Minnesota has seen a growth of only highway 169, 16 and I 90 about nine and a half miles over the last 13 years, but has made some critical A giant variety of eats and treats connections. First came the tie to the Soo Line Trail to the North, then the RIGHT IN THE OF THE CITY “Forgotten Four” link to the Central Lakes State Trail to the West and, in • WALK/BIKE Trails 2018, the connection to Waite Park on • Camping Saint Cloud’s doorstep at the eastern • Lodging end of the trail. • Water Park Lake Wobegon Trails Association • Fun-Food-Festivals former President and long-time board member Cliff Borgerding says, “The www.blueearthchamber.com 507.526.2916 chamber@bevcomm.net extension into Waite Park is definitely

e arth BluE Minnesota

4 Summer 2019

the major accomplishment. That’s been a project that was talked about even before I got involved.” The final piece is the extension from Waite Park through Saint Cloud to the Beaver Island Trail and he expects that to become a reality in the next three to five years. “And it’s only taken 20 years for that to happen,” Borgerding says. In 1967, hopes for a one-of-akind recreational trail were high in southwestern Minnesota when the legislature authorized the Casey Jones State Trail, a 120-mile trail route spanning four counties, with a vision of connecting 12 communities, a national park and three state parks. A friends group formed in 1993 and it took until 2005 for the first five miles to become a reality-in three disconnected segments. Since then, no more trail has been built. Casey Jones Trail friends group president, Mick Myers, says the group initially had a tough time getting things off the ground and had a lot to learn about the grant writing process. He credits the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Parks and Trails Council of Minnesota and local and county officials for their support of the project and feels the group now has built strong support in St. Paul. “So we’ve been toughing it out,” he says. This year, their unrelenting work will come to fruition with a crucial connection. An additional five miles will be added between Pipestone and Woodstock, linking the first two trail towns and doubling the mileage on that segment. “We feel it will be a major turning point to the rest of the trail build,” Myers says. “We’ll finally be connected from one community to another, which will make more events possible. People will begin to see the vitality of a trail in their area.” But the group’s labor is not done. Myers says there’ll be a new trailhead in Pipestone, work will continue on other segments of the trail, and the loop at Lake Shetek State Park-built years agonow needs resurfacing. There are many more trails in Minnesota, each with its own stories of failure and success. Some exist only on the books, like the Mississippi Blufflands Trail. Others, like the Casey Jones Trail, were started long ago and languish in limbo between right of way issues and an aging trail committee. A handful have been completed for years. Our bike trail guide starts on page 21. Take a look at what’s out there now, ride it, get involved in a trail project, and keep that forward march going. Minnesota Trails

people o saving special places

www.parksandtrails.org

Letter from the executive director

Adventure cycling on Minnesota State Trails By Brett Feldman Parks & Trails Council members often ask me for ideas about parks and trails that are connected to each other that they can explore with just their bicycles and camping gear. So with summer upon us, and only a limited number of weekends available for outdoor adventure, I thought I would share two cycling trips for you to consider.

Gitchi-Gami State Trail When the Gitchi-Gami State Trail is completed it will connect seven state parks and span nearly 90 miles along Lake Superior’s spectacular North Shore from Two Harbors to Grand Marais. One of my favorite things to do is to camp at one of the secluded cart-in campsites at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park and then ride an out and back on the 17 miles of Gitchi Gami State Trail that connect Gooseberry Falls State Park to Silver Bay. While 34 miles of trail riding might not be enough for some weekend warriors this is one of those journeys where you definitely want to stop and smell the roses. From the amazing views of Lake Superior (don’t miss the Silver Bay ridge segment) to all the historic and natural sites there are to explore in Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse state parks, this adventure will definitely keep you smiling. One of the reasons I like to camp at Split Rock is

because it gives me an opportunity to walk along the Pebble Beach, take a swim in the lake or even end the day with a relaxing kayak float in the cove next to the beach.

Paul Bunyan State Trail For adventure seekers looking to spend the majority of a weekend on your bikes, the 115-mile Paul Bunyan State Trail connecting Crow Wing State Park near Brainerd to Lake Bemidji State Park is just what the doctor ordered. The parks make perfect anchors for a bicycle camping adventure. You can camp at one of the parks on Friday night, ride the trail to the campground at the other park where you spend your Saturday

Before you head out on your adventure make sure to reserve your campsites in advance and check out the project tour page of the Parks & Trails Council website to learn about the contributions our membership has made to each of the parks and trails you’re visiting. Happy Trails!

Paul Bunyan State Trail through Chippewa National Forest. Andrew Oftedal/P&TC

Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota would like to thank the following sponsor Minnesota Trails

night and then ride back to where you started on Sunday. Yes, 230 miles of riding will leave most people exhausted, but if you still have energy there are several miles of hiking trails and lots of history to learn about at both state parks. There are also many places to stop, rest and eat along the Paul Bunyan State Trail that are sure to add to your enjoyment.

www.pincushiontrailsinn.com Summer 2019 5

people saving special places

www.parksandtrails.org

Minnesota State Trails now on Google “Trailview” How often have you wondered what a state trail actually looks like on the ground before you’ve visited?

sandtrails.org/mn-state-trails. From this homepage, you’ll find the clickable map of Minnesota (on next page)

Well, you can put your imagination to rest, because Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota has partnered with Google Maps to allow anyone to “virtually” experience all the paved Minnesota State Trails. This includes 22 trails covering nearly 600 miles.

For people using desktop computers, the infographic below shows how to navigate to the “streetview.”

You can find a compiled list and map of all these trails with links to the Google Trailviews on our website at park-

Additionally, people can visit our website for a list of all the state trails and links that bring the user directly to the specified point on each trail.

view is by clicking on the links on our webpage. This mapping project is an off-shoot of our main research objective, which is to provide an up-to-date report detailing the State of the Trails. This report analyzes pavement conditions and provides recommendations for funding Minnesota’s state trail system to maintain trails to a standard. Look for this report on our website by summer 2019.

For people using mobile devices, the only way to navigate to the trails’ street-

OPTION 1:

Take a virtual ride from our website

parksandtrails.org/mn-state-trails

Hover over pink dots on the trail map to see this trailview, which can be opened in its own full-screen 6 Summer 2019

Minnesota Trails

people saving special places

www.parksandtrails.org

OPTION 2:

ly from desktop) Take a virtual ride from Google Maps (on

google.com/maps 1

and Go to google.com/maps State ta eso nn Mi search for the . see to nt wa Trail you

Click and drag the “pegman” ( ) onto the trail.

Story by Lisa Filte Filter, er, Parks Park Pa rkss & Trails rk Trraaiils T ls Council Cou unc nciill

This new view will open and allow you to use your cursor to click on the trail to “travel” as far as you want.

ttop op to to bbottom: otttoom: ot m: P orrPhotos of Sen. Keith Langsethh to Porhhoottoog ogr grap apher’ aph hheer’ r s office) offi ffice ffice ce) trait (courtesy of MN Senate pphotographer’s nnuall Di nn D Din inn nner neerr; att imposed on photo of P&TC A Annual Dinner; versiingg on on Senate Seena S en naate te 1992 committee hearing; conversing of MN MN Legislative Leg egis iisla slla lati ati ttive ive ve floor circa 1981 (both courtesyy of Reference Library).

Gitchi Gami State Trail

Minnesota Trails

Central Lakes State Trail

Willard Munger State Trail

Summer 2019 7

TrailsQ&A

2019

Trails Q & A

Snapshots of people we meet along the trail

Maria Medina

Kit Sackreiter

Gary Schommer

Susan Olivanti

Lake Wilson, MN

Plainview, MN

St. Cloud, MN

Anoka, MN

Occupation: Stay at home mom. Seen: Biking the Casey Jones Trail with her husband and two children. Gear: Hybrid Comfort bike. Best Trail Experience: It will be this trail when they pave more of it. How many miles do you bike a year? About 200. Trail Treat: Strawberry ice cream. Future plans: Exercise 3-4 times a week. With $1000 I would: Buy the whole family new bikes. Favorite MN Trail: Camden Regional Trail between Marshall and Camden State Park.

Occupation: Owner of an auto parts store. Seen: Leading Sugarloaf Council, Troop 57 Boy Scouts at Carley State Park for their annual camping trip. Gear: A Troop 57 Teepee. Favorite spot at Carley State Park: The picnic area. The bird watching is great there. Gear Tip: Get a Camelbak hydration backpack with an integrated water hose. Best MN Experience: I have two: This event and canoeing in Sibley State Park. Worst MN experience: Getting caught in a windstorm when canoeing at Sibley State Park the same day. Trail Treat: Just simple trail mix. With $1,000 I would: Take the boys camping. Advice for others: Keep your eyes open and watch the weather.

Seen: Biking the Lake Wobegon Trail in Avon, MN. Occupation: Collation department of a printing company. Gear: 27-speed Bachetta Bella recumbent bicycle. Best Minnesota Experience: I biked 150 miles from Sauk Centre and back on the Lake Wobegon and Central Lakes Trails with a friend. Worst Minnesota Experience: A 30 mph head wind on a 50-mile ride from St. Cloud to Winsted. Advice for the novice biker: Start on trails, they’re safer. With $1000 I would: Buy a tadpole style recumbent. Favorite Minnesota place: Lanesboro, MN. It’s a scenic area with friendly people and lots of B&Bs. How many miles do you bike in a year? About 1400. Trail Treat: A Snickers bar or anything from Dairy Queen. Future Minnesota plans: Take a week in the fall and explore the Cannon Valley and Mesabi Trails.

Seen: Biking the Dakota Rail Regional Trail with her husband, Nick. Occupation: Retired elementary school teacher. Gear: Trek FSX5 trail bike. How many miles do you ride per year? 500-700 miles. Best Minnesota Experience: Riding in the annual Tour de Tonka and experiencing the camaraderie between bikers. Worst Minnesota Experience: Veering off a trail into some gravel and falling-but that was many years ago. Trail Treat: Cashews and gingersnaps. Advice for the novice cyclist: You’re never too old for biking. It’s a sport anyone can enjoy. With $1000 I would: Help my granddaughter with law school expenses. Favorite Minnesota Place: This trail. The view at the bridge in Spring Park is just great. Future Minnesota Plans: Go to Duluth and explore the Willard Munger Trail.

QA 8 Summer 2019

Minnesota Trails ls

A Tale of Two Trails by Molly Brewer Hoeg I was excited to get my first taste of the extensive bicycle paths in north central Minnesota. Unable to choose between the Paul Bunyan Trail and the Heartland Trail, I decided on a combination of the two. Both trails are the product of rails-totrails projects, and lay claim to some impressive records. The Heartland Trail came first, established in 1974 as one of the first rails-to-trails conversions in the country. Stretching from Park Rapids to Cass Lake it encompasses 49 miles of paved trail. The first section of the Paul Bunyan Trail opened in 1992. Now extending 123 miles from Crow Wing State Park to Lake Bemidji State Park, it is the longest state trail in Minnesota, and the longest continuously paved trail in the country. Forests and bogs with pockets of lingering farmland characterize the northern section of the Paul Bunyan Trail from Bemidji to Walker. “People like the mix of woods, wetlands and farms,” according to Dave Schotzko, Minnesota Department of Resources (MNDNR) Area Supervisor for Parks and Trails in Bemidji. “The nostalgia is still there from the heyday of agriculagricul ture,” he said. Natural prairie exists along the trail as well, which the DNR is working to preserve. I found this 41-mile section of the trail to be quiet and tranquil. q A recent repaving p g pproject j left a smooth surface and easy cycling. y g Well secluded from roads and traffic, even the small communities alongg the wayy lay hidden from view. At times, the trees lining the

path reached overhead to form a green tunnel tinged with splashes of autumn red. Laporte is a popular stopping point for many trail users. “It has a small rest area and [bikers] can get a snack from the local shops,” said Schotzko. “They like the amenities of a small town.” My favorite spot there was the public access area where I could look out over scenic Garfield Lake. As I neared Walker, the trees thinned on the east side of the trail to reveal glimpses of Leech Lake. Its deep, blue waters mirrored the sky, and I watched enviously as a pleasure boat motored by. Before reaching the popular resort town, the Paul Bunyan and Heartland Trail converge. Six miles later they split again and I headed west on the Heartland Trail. By early afternoon, the trail bustled with activity. As I made my way to Park Rapids, I passed cyclists of all ages and abilities, from older couples out for an afternoon jaunt to hard-core cyclists pressing their pedals for a hard workout. In between were young people with children, runners, dog walkers, and a local cross-country team on a training run. cross c “A lot of trail use is relatively local,” said KKent Skaar, Senior Project Manager for Division of Parks and Trails in St. Paul. the Di “Constant use is high adjacent to local “Cons communities. People may go out six miles comm and bback again.” As a result, most trail development is driven by area residents. develo “A lot of locals walk the same sections of the tra trail every day. They know good spots for be benches, and people donate money to build them.” TThis 27-mile section of the Heartland Trail between Walker and Park Rapid Rapids crosses numerous rivers, creeks

The lighthouse at Walker City Park on Leech Lake. Molly Brewer Hoeg photo

and wetlands, which is a big draw for cyclists. “Bridges attract people. People stop and look at the water, everyone likes to look at a lake,” said Schotzko. In the growing warmth of the afternoon, I took time out to do just that at the channel to Shallow Lake. Among several small towns adjacent to the trail, I chose to stop in Akeley, which has been calling itself the birthplace of Paul Bunyan since 1949. In addition to a trailhead and rest area, Akeley has plenty of places to restock refreshments and supplies. I was drawn to the gigantic statue of Paul Bunyan on Broadway Street. Paul is down on one knee, but were he to stand up, he’d be the tallest in the world at 60 feet. His outstretched hand has been inviting tourists to sit for snapshots since 1985. In the summer, history buffs can visit the Paul Bunyan Historical Museum, which chronicles the town’s logging and sawmill history. Closer to Park Rapids, Dorset is another attractive town along the trail with shops and restaurants. This tiny hamlet, population 22, calls itself the restaurant capital of the world, somewhat tongue-incheek. Every August, at the annual Taste of Dorset, a new mayor is chosen by random drawing and anyone can enter. As the afternoon waned I pedaled the final miles into Park Rapids, passing Heartland Park and crossing the Fishhook River. It was the end of my day’s ride, but my exploring is not over. I still have over half of each trail to cycle. Another day.

Paul Bunyan has been welcoming visitors to Akeley since 1985.

Just outside of Nevis, the Heartland Trail crosses over Shallow Lake (left) and Lake Belle Taine (right). Rich Hoeg photo Summer 2019 9

Vitáme Vás means Welcome Tour de Bun Bike Classic is a Community Effort

ontgomery’s main drag was quiet on a mild, early morning in late July. Thousands would later crowd First Street South, but for now it was almost empty, except for a few workers in yellow vests setting up No Parking signs. The red, white and blue American and Czech flags on the old brick buildings and lamp posts moved little in the light breeze when the throng of bike riders turned the corner, led by a police car with flashing lights. At the edge of town the crowd hit the country roads of Le Sueur County and the 28th Tour de Bun was officially underway. Kolacky Days, an annual celebration of Czech heritage and the sweet, filled Kolacky bun, has been held in Montgomery since the 1930s and this community of about 3,000 pulls together a three-day festival, which often brings more people to town than live there. Since 1990, the Tour de Bun Bike Classic has been part of the event lineup. The ride offers a 13-mile Statkový Okru (Homestead Loop), 33-mile

by Jan Lasar

Osadnický Okru (Pioneer Loop) and a community. The Montogomery Area 50-mile Okruh Zelených Akru (Green Community Club puts on Kolacky Days Acres loop) on rural roads noticeably and, from the proceeds, gives grants to low on car traffic, but with views for various local organizations throughout miles. the year. “Everybody does their part “It’s a very easy ride as far as hills and takes on a role in that weekend,” go. Not too big of a challenge,” he said. “All the money stays in the said Mick McGuire, lifelong community.” Montgomery resident As riders made and chair of the Tour their way through the de Bun committee gentle hills around since 2010. Montgomery, the “People day turned out enjoy it. They to be perfect say it’s one of for a ride in the the nicer country country under road rides. They cloudless, blue enjoy the scenery, skies. A mild because it’s just breeze rustled kind of classic the corn stalks in southern Minnesota the fields, and the rolling hills and occasional long, sloped farmland. There’s even downhill stretches were a couple of lakes along refreshing. Riders on the 15-mile loop the way,” he said. At one of the rest enjoy the rural views The Tour de Bun stops at a local winery, around Montgomery. keeps McGuire and Stephanie Ykemaa dozen volunteers busy year round, Stunes was happy with her progress, starting soon after the ride. His reward, averaging almost 14 miles an hour he said, comes from riders’ encouraging while biking with her husband, Corey, comments from across the state. “We who was training for a 100-mile ride. get some fairly positive feedback. That’s “I’m from here, but it’s been a long kind of what it’s all about, providing time,” she said. “We live in the Twin an enjoyable experience. Sometimes Cities, in a very urban environment I’m just amazed to see how far and it is kind of nice to step back people come for this bike ride. I when you’re seeing something at 10 talked to one couple who came or 12 miles an hour versus when from Alexandria, MN. People also you’re used to seeing it at 60.” come from Elk River and Austin, She was born in Montgomery, but now MN and drive an hour and a half or lives in Fridley and came back to visit, two hours to ride their bike here,” he ride the Tour de Bun and reconnect said. with old friends. McGuire enjoys volunteering “I don’t have a ton of family because he feels it helps out the here, but everyone I went

The open road. All photos by Jan Lasar 10 Summer 2019

Minnesota Trails

to high school with. For people that are from Montgomery, [Kolacky Days] is like a thing”, she said and added that she ran into 15 old friends, just unloading the bikes in the parking lot before the ride. At the same rest stop, retired dairy farmer Bob Krocak was handing out snacks and water and revealed a family connection to the Tour de Bun. His brother Gary, one of the original organizers of the ride, was killed in a car accident in 1992. In memory of Gary, Krocak said, ride organizers worked his initials into the bike spoke design of the ride logo the following year. “Over the years we’ve had four or five of the t-shirts commemorate someone who has p passed on,” , he said.

“I still have the feeling of my brother biking when he’s not with us and I just want to do something for the community in helping out for Kolacky Days. It takes a village to put on Kolacky Days and there’s many people that volunteer behind the scenes you don’t even know about. It makes it easy if everybody volunteers.” After his shift he said he was going to watch the Bohemian Tractor Pull, where teams of four compete to pull a tractor 100 feet in the fastest time. “I have a little vested interest, because I have four boys that never lost in it,” he said. By one o’clock even the last stragglers had returned to town and mingled g with festivalgoers who were already hoisting a pivo in the beer garden on a pleasant Satu Saturday afternoon. Kolacky Days was in full f swing: The empty stree streets of the early morning brimmed wit with people casually strolling and checkin checking out classic cars with shiny engines gleaming under their open hoods; Kolacky Days royalty in tradition traditional Czech dress and sparkly tiaras shook hands and posed for pict pictures; Franke’s Bakery moved ko kolacky by the dozen to a constant con stream

band mixed with the chugs of antique tractors and the clank of the blacksmith hammering red-hot metal into dainty flowers; contestants were lining up for the International Prune Spitting Contest while the town brewery tapped a keg of Stoleti Pivo, brewed in honor of the Czech Heritage Committee. At Memorial Park, they hooked four long ropes to the front of a bright, red 1960s International Harvester tractor model 504 in preparation for the Bohemian Tractor Pull, so Bob Krocak’s boys could claim another title. By Sunday night it was all over, streets were swept, bleachers taken down, route signs collected, Montogomery returned to normal and preparations began for the 85th Kolacky Days and the 29th Tour de Bun in 2019. Mass start at Memorial Park.

The star of the show: Kolacky comes with various fillings, this one poppy seed.

2019 Kolacky Days: July 26-28 2019 Tour de Bun: July 27 www.montgomerymn.org The annual Kolacky Days celebration brings thousands to rural Montgomery, MN. A twist on the traditional tractor pull, the Bohemian tractor pull, is a crowd favorite.

Minnesota Trails

Summer 2019 11

2019

bike rides & tours Tour de Pepin

Tour of Lakes

Bike MS: MS 150

June 1, 2019

June 7 to June 9, 2019

Location: Lake City, MN Website: www.lakecity.org/news-events/ tour-de-pepin Distances: 32, 50, 72, 100 miles. Begin your tour in historic Lake City and get a marvelous, glimpse of the most extensive river delta in the Midwest. You make your way through rolling farmland and wooded countryside en route to Stockholm, WI, where the Pearl of the Lake paddleboat will take you across Lake Pepin, back to Lake City.

Location: Brainerd, MN Website: www.paulbunyancyclists.com Distances: 35, 65 miles This is a loop ride through the scenic Brainerd Lakes area starting at Crosby/ Ironton High School. Registration includes t-shirt, route maps, rest stops and SAG. All proceeds benefit local programs.

Location: White Bear Lake, MN Website: www.nationalmsscociety.org Distances: 75 miles a day Bike MS: MS 150 Ride is a two-day cycling journey to raise money for MS research.

Twin Cities Tour de Cure June 1, 2019 Location: Minneapolis, MN Website: www.diabetes.org/twincitiestourdecure Distances: 10, 18, 26, 45, 62, 100 miles A day full of fun and excitement where riders of all levels join forces and raise funds for diabetes research, education and advocacy.

ALS Bike Trek June 2, 2019

Austin, MN is becoming a well-known destination for biking enthusiasts! Over 13 miles of hard-surfaced trails connect you with many locations in the city as well as to the Shooting Star, adding an additional 30 miles through the southern region.

CARAMEL ROLL RIDE June 8, 2019

Location: Marine on St. Croix, MN Email: amoran@mdausa.org Distance: 14, 34, 52 miles The ALS Bike Trek MN is a family oriented charity bike ride created to raise awareness of ALS and funding toward an effective treatment.

Location: Albany, MN Website: www.lakewobegontrail.com/lwta-rides This is the annual “Beginning of Summer” ride on the trail and this year marks the 20th anniversary. Choose from three options: East to Avon, Collegeville and Saint Joseph, west to Freeport, and of course, north to Holdingford and the covered bridge, then on the Soo Line Trail to Bowlus and Blanchard Dam on the Mighty Mississippi River.

WORTHINGTON REGATTA BIKE RIDE June 8, 2019 Location: Worthington, MN Email: wcofc@worthingtonmnchamber.com Distances: 15, 30, and a 7-mily family trail ride This bike ride has been part of the annual Worthington Windsurfing Regatta and Music Festival since 2006 and includes t-shirt, rest stops, lunch and support vehicles. Celebrate silent sports on and off the shores of scenic Lake Okabena and enjoy great bands to boot.

SPAM TOWN MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL TM

View the history of over 80 bicycles displayed on the walls inside the shop. Including the 1868 “Boneshaker” and a bike from the late Robin Williams’ personal collection.

Austin, MN has been awarded Honorable Mention for being a

Bike Friendly Community from the League of American Bicyclist.

507-437-4563 301 North Main Street, Suite 101 Austin, Minnesota

AustinMN.com 12 Summer 2019

Minnesota Trails

2019

bike rides & tours

Luce Line Loops Bike Ride

DAM2DAM RIDE

Minnesota Iron Man Bike Ride

June 9, 2019

June 15, 2019

Location: Hutchinson, MN Website: www.hutchinsonrotary.org Distances: 12, 25, 50 miles and a 75km gravel option. This ride is hailed as one of the most scenic and hospitable rides in Minnesota. With four ride options, this ride is perfect for all riders. Back by popular demand this year is the 75K Gravel Grinder; perfect for those who love to ride on gravel! All rides begin and end at the Crow River Winery, which connects with the Luce Line Trail via a 1/4 mile packed gravel trail. TCBC approved outreach ride.

Location: Little Falls, MN Website: www.cmnbikeclub.com/dam2dam-bike-ride Distances: 20, 40 miles. Follow the Great River Road through Charles A. Lindbergh State Park to historic Blanchard Dam and enjoy miles of Mississippi riverfront and quiet back roads with two rest stops.

Location: Shakopee, MN Website: www.ironmanbikeride.org Distances: 15, 30, 62, 100 miles Minnesota’s oldest bike ride returns in 2019 with a new venue and a family-friendly ride option on the Minnesota River Valley Trail.

North Star Grand Prix June 12 to June 16, 2019 Location: Varies towns across Minnesota Website: www.northstarbicyclefestival.com The North Star Grand Prix is a five-day stage race that draws racers from all parts of the US and tens of thousands of spectators. An amateur and youth race, live music and family activities are part of the celebrations.

The Tour of Minnesota June 14 to June 21, 2019 Location: Grand Rapids, MN Website: www.tourofminnesota.com Distances: 40 to 60 miles per day The 45th annual Tour of Minnesota, formerly the Klobuchar Bike Ride, will visit the Iron Range towns of Grand Rapids, Chisholm, Aurora, Ely, Biwabik and Hibbing in 2019.

SHOOTING STAR TRAIL RIDE June 22, 2019

LADY SLIPPER RIDE June 15, 2019 Location: Avon, MN Website: www.lakewobegontrail.com/lwta-rides Distances: 6 miles See the Minnesota State Flower, the Pink and White Showy Lady’s Slipper in full bloom. This is a short ride to see the beautiful Lady’s Slipper orchids growing along the Lake Wobegon Trail. It’s a free ride, but donations will be accepted.

Location: Adams, MN Website: www.shootingstartrail.org Distances: 20, 40, 50, 62 miles. Take a ride through Minnesota’s prairies. All routes are fully supported with rest stops and SAG support. The 50 and 62-mile routes are a combination of trail and hard surface county roads on relatively flat terrain. A family favorite of southern Minnesota.

LOOP THE LAKE RIDE

Swiss Cheese and Spotted Cows Bicycle Tour

June 15, 2019

Date: June 27 to June 30, 2019

Location: Bemidji, MN Website: www.bikebemidji.com Distance: 17 miles. Easy, paved trail ride around beautiful Lake Bemidji, features a rolling start time, food, music, and activities at rest stations along the way. Registration includes food, music, and photo ops on a scenic route.

Location: Spring Green, WI Website: www.scscbiketour.com Distances: average 60 miles daily. Ride along quiet, pastoral country lanes dotted with small farms and enjoy the unspoiled natural beauty and charming, vibrant towns of southern Wisconsin.

Believe In Me Bike Ride June 15, 2019 Location: Rochester, MN Website: www.grrbikeride.org Distances: 6,14-mile trail ride, 34, 62, 80,102-mile road route, 43-mile gravel route. This ride takes you through some of the beautiful wide-open spaces surrounding Rochester. There is a ride for every level.

Details at www.mntrails.com/events

Tour de Bun Bike Classic

July 27, 2019 A sweet ride in the heart of Minnesota Czech Country to celebrate Kolacky Days!

15, 35 and 50-mile routes www.montgomerymn.org/tour-de-bun-bike-classic Minnesota Trails

Summer 2019 13

2019

bike rides & tours Dan Ulwelling Bike Race/Ride

WATERMELON RIDE

Habitat 500 Bike Ride

June 29, 2019

July 4, 2019

July 14 to July 19, 2019

Location: Austin, MN Call: Rydjor Bike Shop 507-433-7571 Distance: 25 mile Ride on rural asphalt roads around Austin as part of Austin’s Freedom Fest.

Location: Shoreview, MN Website: www.biketcbc.org/watermelon Distances: 15, 25, and 52-mile routes. The Twin Cities Bicycling Club’s annual holiday ride in the northeast metro is a family favorite. Routes are fully supported with a picnic lunch near the end.

Location: Duluth, MN Website: www.habitat500.org The Habitat 500 is a bicycle ride and fundraiser that covers 500 miles over the course of 7 days.

Lutsen 99er June 29 to June 30, 2019 Location: Lutsen Ski Resort, Lutsen, MN Website: www.lutsen99er.com Distances: 99, 69, 49, 25 miles This racecourse takes advantage of the scenery and topography of Minnesota’s North Shore on roads and trails that see as much moose traffic as people traffic.

Tour D’Amico July 4, 2019 Location: Golden Valley, MN Website: www.tourdamico.org Distances: 21, 29, 41, 62 miles. Routes cover western metro area. Entry fee includes tasty Italian lunch at ride conclusion. Multiple supported rest stops.

ROCK-N-ROLL THE LAKES July 13, 2019 Location: Albert Lea, MN Website: www.bikemn.org Distances: 10, 30, 50 miles. Cruise around the beautiful lakes of Albert Lea, Minnesota. All three courses hug picturesque lakeshores and offer a variety of beautiful southern Minnesota scenery in the Land between the Lakes.

Tour de Meeker July 13, 2019 Location: Litchfield, MN Website: www.tourdemeeker.com Distances: 5, 15, 25, 50, 62 miles The ride is hosted by Meeker Memorial Foundation with proceeds going to support health and healthcare in Meeker County.

Details at www.mntrails.com/events

The Minnesota North Shore Tour Date: July 14 to July 19, 2019 Location: Duluth to Grand Marais Distance: 160 miles. This tour takes you along the shore of Lake Superior, from Duluth to the Canada border.

Tour of Saints Date: July 14, 2019 Location: St. Joseph, MN Website: www.tourofsaints.com Distances: 18, 35, 50 miles. Each year cyclists gather in St. Joseph to wind their way along quiet byways and rolling hills.

Heck Epic July 20 to July 21, 2019 Location: Two Harbors, MN Website: www.heckofthenorth.com Distances: 227 miles total. Two-day bikepaking stage race mostly on gravel and forest roads. Racers carry their own overnight gear.

Bike MS: Ride Across Minnesota July 21 to July 26, 2019 Location: Willmar, MN Website: www.nationalmssociety.org Riders will travel through picturesque scenery and experience the rich history of Minnesota while raising funds to fight MS.

St. Jude Ride & 5k July 21, 2019 Location: Hastings, MN Website: www.stjude.org/riderunmn Distances: 20, 40, 60 miles The St. Jude Ride & 5K Run is a one-day biking and running event benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

August 3-10 | candak.net

29th Annual Tour da U.P. August 4th-8th

SAT., SAT T A August ugus 17, 2019 Starting and ending in Bottineau, ND

One week and 400+ miles. 14 Summer 2019

Minnesota Trails

2019

bike rides & tours

Spoker Ride July 27, 2019 Location: Paynesville, MN Website: www.tempotickets.com/spokerride Distances: 2 to 50 miles. For those familiar with the concept of a Poker Run, this is similar, except on bicycles!

TOUR DE BUN BIKE CLASSIC July 27, 2019 Location: Montgomery, MN Website: www.montgomerymn.org/tourde-bun-bike-classic Distances: 13, 33, 50 miles. Ride your bike in the heart of Minnesota Czech Country in scenic Le Sueur County. Each route will have refreshment stops at various points and will provide scenic rural countryside on paved, lightly traveled roads. After the tour, riders will have plenty of time to participate in all the Kolacky Days weekend festivities.

Tour de Save July 27, 2019 Location: Northfield, MN Website: www.save.org/event/tour-desave-northfield Distances: 6, 25, 50-mile road routes and a 46-mile gravel route. The ride supports SAVEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission to prevent suicide. All rides begin with a fanfare and group roll out at 9:00 AM and end with an after-party.

GREAT RIVER ENERGY MESABI TRAIL TOUR August 3, 2019 Location: Mesabi Trail Website: www.mesabitrail.com Distances: 10, 24, 51, 72 miles. Enjoy this unique riding experience on the Mesabi Trail, northeast Minnesotaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier paved bike trail. Entry includes a t-shirt, picnic dinner and music at finish, rest stops with food and entertainment, transportation for riders and their bicycles.

Tour de Tonka August 3, 2019 Location: Minnetonka, MN Website: www.tourdetonka.org Distances: 8 to 100 miles Tour de Tonka is a scenic bike ride that travels through the Lake Minnetonka area and its surrounding communities. With 8 different route options from 8 to 100 miles, there is a ride for everyone.

TOUR DA U.P. August 4 to August 8, 2019

RAIL TRAILS 100 August 3, 2019 Location: Fergus Falls, MN Website: www.railtrails100.com The Central Lakes and Lake Wobegon Trails offer some of the best trail riding in the state of Minnesota and this is your chance to conquer both of them in one day! Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll board a luxury coach bus in Saint Joseph early in the morning and you and your bike get shuttled to the start in Fergus Falls. All you have to do is enjoy the 100-mile ride back. Registration is limited to 50 riders.

Location: Sault Ste. Marie, MI Website: www.shop.tourdaup.com Distances: 50-60 miles per day. Tour Da U.P. is a bike tour that offers a unique experience to families, couples and individuals. The on-road event allows you to set your own pace, take in the scenery of Michiganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eastern Upper Peninsula and discover historical sites and natural wonders along each dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ride.

Bicycling Around Minnesota (BAM) August 15 to August 18, 2019

Details at www.mntrails.com/events

Location: Saint Joseph, MN Website: www.bambiketour.org Distances: average 65 miles daily. BAM is heading to central Minnesota to visit Saint Joseph, Sauk Centre, Spicer and Hutchinson this year.

Bike Duluth Festival August 2 to August 4, 2019 Location: Duluth, MN Website: www.bikeduluthfestival.com Get ready to celebrate the world-class Duluth mountain bike trails at Spirit Mountain with three days of action-packed events.

Ride Winonaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beautiful Bluff Country!

CaNDak August 3 to August 10, 2019 Location: Bottineau, ND Website: www.candak.net Distances: 35, 70, 100 miles daily This ride offers daily routes ranging from 35 to 70 miles and a century option through North Dakotaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unforgettable scenery for a full week of biking bliss.

6HSWHPEHU 23, 44, 67 and Century routes

www.RideTheRidges.bike

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2019 NORTHFIELD, MINNESOTA Âˇ A Rotary Club of Northfield Event

FIVE SCENIC ROUTES 10 miles / 30 miles / 45 miles / 60 miles / 100 miles REGISTER ONLINE: Minnesota Trails

jessejamesbiketour.org

FOOD TRUCKS | LIVE MUSIC BEER! (21 & UP) REGISTER: WWW.MINNEAPOLISBIKETOUR.COM Summer 2019 15

2019

bike rides & tours Red Ribbon Ride

Lumberjacks and Loons Tour

JESSE JAMES BIKE TOUR

August 16 to August 18, 2019

Date: August 19 to August 26, 2019 and Sept. 8 to Sept. 15, 2019

September 7, 2019

Location: Minneapolis, MN Website: www.redribbonride.org Red Ribbon Ride is a fully-supported three-day bicycle event to raise vital funds for HIV/AIDS services.

GITCHI-GAMI TRAIL RIDE August 17, 2019 Location: Gooseberry Falls State Park Website: www.ggta.org Distances: 8, 28, 37, 55 miles. Enjoy a supported, recreational ride on the Gitchi-Gami State Trail along Lake Superior’s scenic North Shore. Travel through multiple state parks. SAG is provided.

TOUR DE PINES August 17, 2019 Location: Itasca State Park Website: www.tourdepines.org Distances: 15 to 100 miles. Tour De Pines is a beautiful single day bike tour in Northern Minnesota, in and around Itasca State Park.

Location: Itasca State Park Website: www.mywahooadventures.com/ bicycling Distances: 18 to 44 miles a day. An at-your-own pace ride through northern Minnesota, following the Mississippi River through history, wildlife, and local folklore.

PAUL’S BACON RIDE PART DEUX August 24, 2019 Location: Brainerd, MN Website: www.paulsbaconride.com Distance: 45 miles. Visit the trail towns of Merrifield, Nisswa and Pequot Lakes with bacon stops along the way and lots of cold Minnesota craft beer and drinks to wash it down. Registration includes breakfast and lunch, bacon stops, drink specials, ride t-shirt and SAG. Packet pick-up party at Roundhouse Brewery the evening before.

CARAMEL APPLE RIDE September 7, 2019

Details at www.mntrails.com/events

Location: Sauk Centre, MN Website: www.lakewobegontrail.com/ lwta-rides Enjoy the fall colors and great apple refreshments at all the rest stops including caramel apples and other treats from local vendors. Spend the day riding the great Lake Wobegon Trail Country.

Location: Northfield, MN Website: http://jessejamesbiketour.org Distances: 10, 30, 45, 60, 100 miles This fabulous bike tour is an official event of Defeat of Jesse James Days, one of Minnesota’s largest community celebrations and the best century ride around.

September Song September 7, 2019 Location: Rice Lake, WI Distance: 50 miles 2019 is the 51st anniversary of this classic road ride on relatively flat country roads and along the shores of Rice Lake. You’re on your own, but there are stores, restaurants and a beach on the way. The cost for the queue sheet is $1, just like in 1968!

Taste of the Trail September 7, 2019 Lanesboro, Whalan, Peterson, MN September 14, 2019 Fountain, Preston, Harmony, MN September 21, 2019 Houston, Rushford Area, MN Website: www.rootrivertrail.org/events/ taste-of-the-trail/ Three weekends each feature a different selection of towns. Each community will give you a taste of their town with different activities, food and music.

13th Annual

Worthington Regatta Bike Ride Saturday, June 8, 2019 Worthington, MN Part of the Windsurﬁng Regatta and Music Festival 15 or 30 mile Road Ride • 7 mile Family Trail Ride

Registration includes: T-shirt, rest stops, SAG and lunch Register at www.worthingtonmnchamber.com

wcofc@worthingtonmnchamber.com | 507-372-2919 Worthington has more than 8 miles of on and off street bike paths and more than 7 miles of year-round trails for you to explore! 16 Summer 2019

Minnesota Trails

2019

bike rides & tours

Saint Paul Classic Bike Tour

Mora Bike Tour

Tour de Tush-Twin Cities

September 8, 2019

September 21, 2019

September 22, 2019

Location: St. Paul, MN Website: www.bikeclassic.org Distances: 15, 32, 47 miles Discover traffic-free glee on Minnesotaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest bike tour and a wonderful ride through Saint Paul, Minnesota.

Location: Mora, MN Website: www.morabiketour.org Distances: 25, 50 miles The annual Mora Bike Tour will start and finish at the Vasaloppet Nordic Center and will offer routes around the Mora countryside on hard surface rural country roads with gentle, rolling hills.

Location: Richfield, MN Website: www.coloncancercoalition.org Distance: 25 miles This tour happens alongside Get Your Rear in Gear - Twin Cities, a 5k run/walk, to bring awareness to colon cancer.

RIDEMN1-Minnesota Crossing September 8 to September 14, 2019 Location: Lake Bronson, MN Website: www.ridemn1.org RideMN1 holds an annual bicycle ride across Minnesota to raise awareness and raise funds for cancer research. This year they visit Lake Bronson, Roseau, Baudette, Littlefork, Orr, Hoyt Lakes and Silver Bay.

PurpleRideStride September 14, 2019 Location: Maple Grove, MN Website: www.support.pancan.org Distances: 8, 25 miles. This year the event will take participants on a route at Elm Creek Regional Park. PurpleRideStride includes two bike routes, a 5K run/walk, and a 1-mile family-friendly walk.

MINNEAPOLIS BIKE TOUR September 15, 2019 Location: Minneapolis, MN Website: www.minneapolisbiketour.com Distances: 16, 32 miles. The Minneapolis Bike Tour starts and ends at beautiful Boom Island and features multiple fully supported routes that take riders through the spectacular park and byway system of Minneapolis at their own pace, traffic free.

Pedal Prior Bike Ride September 15, 2019 Location: Prior Lake Website: www.priorlakerotary.org Distances: 12, 32, 72 miles This ride is a fundraiser for the Prior Lake Rotary Club and is part of the 2019 Summer Charity Events Series. Starts at Dan Patch Stadium.

RIDE THE RIDGES September 21, 2019 Location: Winona, MN Website: www.ridetheridges.bike Distances: 23, 44, 67, 105 miles Ride the Ridges will take riders through some of the most scenic areas in southeastern Minnesota, from lush valleys along streams to bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. Four routes, ranging from short to a century. Each route has hills and valleys and spectacular views. All routes have well-stocked rest stops featuring local delicacies. Rider amenities include a longsleeve t-shirt, meal coupon, free showers, and SAG support.

TOUR DE HUGO September 21, 2019 Location: Hugo, MN Website: www.tourdehugo.com Distances: 6, 20, 35, 50, 62 miles Explore the beautiful variety of landscapes that Minnesota has to offer on the Tour de Hugo and enjoy the fall colors, which are likely to be at full peak.

Bikes4Kids Legacy Ride September 28, 2019 Location: Maple Grove Website: www.bikes4kidsmn.org Distances: 5, 15, 25 miles. A Bikes 4 Kids fundraiser ride through Elm Creek Park Reserveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beautiful trail system.

Headwaters 100 September 28, 2019 Location: Park Rapids, MN Website: www.itascatur.org Distances: 45, 75, 100 miles The premier fall event in Northern Minnesota, the Headwaters 100 has something for everyone.

Heck of the North September 28, 2019 Location: North of Two Harbors, MN Website: www.heckofthenorth.com Distances: 20, 50, 100 miles. Race on rugged and beautiful gravel and forest roads near Two Harbors.

Mankato River Ramble October 6, 2019

Wild Ride Mountain Bike Festival September 21, 2019 Location: Eagan, MN Website: www.co.dakota.mn.us The Wild Ride Mountain Bike Festival celebrates the great sport of mountain biking at Lebanon Hills Regional Park.

Autumn Trek September 22, 2019 Location: River Falls, WI Website: www.rivervalleytrails.org/autumn-trek Distances: 25, 45, 65, 101 miles The Autumn Trek bike ride takes you through some of the most scenic country in Western Wisconsin.

Location: Mankato, MN Website: www.bikeriverramble.org Distances: 12, 26, 42 miles. Savor the fall colors on this countryside ride with rest stops, ride support, delicious food and beverages, and live music.

Terravail Oremageddon October 12, 2019 Location: Ironton, MN Website: www.cuyunalakesmtb.com/ oremageddon Distances: 12, 25, 50 miles The Salsa Oremageddon mountain bike race has varying levels of difficulty with intense twists, turns and vertical climbs on the Cuyuna red dirt singletrack.

September 21, 2019 tourdehugo.com

Pre-register and receive a commemorative t-shirt, bandanna and ride medallion 6, 20, 35, 50 and 62 mile routes Minnesota Trails

Summer 2019 17

It's Just What We Do Now Story and illustrations by Kimberly Boustead

A bikepacking trip to Canada along Minnesota’s North Shore The first time I rode the GitchiGami trail was on an organized ride called the Split Rock Tour. My old, neglected bike was ready to fall apart and screamed with every pull of the brake. The last nine miles I struggled with a flat, but I loved that ride and credit it to the beginning of my deep adoration of Minnesota’s North Shore.

Back in early January of 2018 I was unable to walk, recovering from a knee injury and surgery and I began daydreaming about another ride on the north shore of Lake Superior. That same afternoon, I texted a handful of friends about my dream trip, things began to take shape, and we finally set off on July 27, 2018 for three days of self-supported biking from Duluth to Canada. There were six of us, all women, drawn to each other by a strange combination of being sporty and artsy and a little bit weird, and with a healthy balance of dreamer and problem solver

in all of us. We all had biking experience, but most of us had never done a selfsupported bike camping tour.

Taking in the view of Lake Superior. Amanda Henderson photo

Day 1: Duluth to Tettegouche The forecast called for highs in the 70s, light wind and no rain, near perfect conditions. The air was cool in the morning and it felt great to finally be biking after all of the planning. Our first roadside stop was at Tom’s Logging Camp store, about 20 miles from Duluth. We could have spent days in there, marveling at fanny packs and Lake Superior mood rings, but settled on about an hour. In Two Harbors we visited another roadside attraction that’s been dubbed Pierre, the Pantsless Voyageur. This 20foot statue of a French explorer has a canoe paddle, shirt and boots, but appears to be sans pants pantalons. Back on our bikes, our route then

wove from the shoulder of Scenic Highway 61 and back to the lovely, paved Gitchi-Gami trail. My favorite part of the trail on this first day was the tiny part that hugged the side of Silver Creek Cliff and overlooked the lake, which appeared like an ocean from this angle. We rolled into camp at Tettegouche State Park with just an hour of daylight to spare. After setting up tents, we walked to the shore and waited until the moon rose while we passed around a flask of Bourbon. We dipped our faces in the lake. The water was cool and crisp. We

skipped our showers that night, but the lake water on my face felt better than any spa treatment I could imagine.

Emily Sauer, Michelle Carter, Amanda Henderson, Ann Person, Kim Boustead and Shanai Matteson pose for group selfie after conquering Mount Josephine. Emily Sauer photo

At the US-Canada border the group gets their passports stamped. Amanda Henderson photo

Welcome to Minnesota sign on the way back from Canada. Amanda Henderson photo

Day 2: Tettegouche to Grand Marais ais We decided we would make fewer stops and move a little faster to arrive in Grand Marais earlier in the day. Our midday stop was scheduled at Temperance River State Park, but when we biked up, the parking lot was bustling with cars and busses and we decided to take our break a few miles down the road in Tofte, instead. We dodged a sudden rain shower at the Coho Café and were back on the road. There were hills on the route, but none were terrible. We took it slow, reminding each other to hydrate, and stopped often to fuel up on snacks. There was a break in the trees about 10 miles away from Grand Marais, as

we descended into town and the view broke open into the most glorious sight of the lake. After setting up camp at the municipal campground in Grand Marais and a hot, wonderful shower, we hit Sven and Ole’s for pizza and beer. We lounged in our corner booth, practicing singing the Canadian national anthem, maybe just a little too loudly and maybe just a couple of times too often. We talked about becoming a touring cycling choir, the Minstrel Cycles. We’d make our debut at the

Canadian border the next day. We’d be famous, no doubt.

Day 3: Grand Marais to Ontario rio North of Grand Marais we knew there would be significantly less traffic and healthy, plump shoulders for the remainder of the ride and we set off for Naniboujou Lodge’s brunch buffet early in the morning. The brunch most definitely lived up to our expectations and the colorful designs on the painted ceiling alone were worth the visit. It was by far the prettiest leg of the trip, biking close to the foot of the lake early in the day. We were to stay at a cabin on the lake about three miles before Grand Portage Casino for this last night, right on the shore by the Hollow Rock. But to get to Canada and back we needed to bike past the cabin, past the casino, through Grand Portage, and add an extra 12 miles with a tough climb called Mount Josephine in the middle. Soon, the border was in front of

us and we got our passports stamped as we entered Canada. ada. At the visitor center I sent off some ome postcards to family to prove that we had actually made it. We switched hed shoes and went on a mile-long hike to High Falls on the Pigeon River, Minnesota’s sota’s highest waterfall at 120 feet. Across the border, der, at Minnesota’s Grand and Portage State Park, you can see the falls from om a distance. On the Canadian adian side the trails take you right to the top of the falls. On the way back we had to deal with Mount Josephine again. While in Canada, we had talked about what goes through our heads when we’re in the middle of something challenging or torturous, something that helps us get

Day 4: The Ride Back

through it and we decided it helps to just think “This is just what I do now.” And for four miles, climbing up Mt. Josephine was just what we did. The descent was fast and glorious and we had a good night’s sleep at our cabin.

Resting up on the side of Highway 61 near Grand Portage. Shanai Matteson photo

It took only three days to get used to the amazing bike-packing lifestyle and we were sad to leave it behind, when our shuttle driver arrived the next morning. We made some stops for coffee and donuts, but the rest of the threehour ride was filled with fun conversation, terrible 90s songs-sung loudly, and brainstorming about epic tattoo designs to pay homage to this trip. Back in Duluth it felt like the trip was officially over as we unloaded and then reloaded our gear and headed back to our lives in Minneapolis. In the days and weeks following the ride, we had many people reach out to us, mostly women, telling us how inspired they were seeing our posts on Instagram and Facebook. They said that seeing us on this ride made it made it seem more attainable and that they would love to do a trip like it. It did feel great to push ourselves into the unknown and we think it is important to spread the message that you don’t have to be a biking pro to reap the benefits and feel the freedom that comes with a self-supported tour. We weren’t experts and we weren’t athletes, but this trip wasn’t out of our wheelhouse, bad knees and all. It isn’t earthshaking, or crazy. It’s just what we do now. Minnesota Trails

Summer 2019 19

Decorah is a biker’s heaven

The Trout Run Trail is an 11-mile loop circling Decorah and has become a premier biking destination in the Driftless Region. Enjoy incredible views, unique artwork, challenging hills, and riverside flats. Decorah has 13 miles of paved trail, over 20 miles of offroad trails, and over 600 acres of public parks to explore. Winneshiek County’s trail system includes both paved and gravel trails. The Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail is a “rail-totrail” system that follows an old railroad line, offering a flat, 20-mile route from Cresco to Calmar.

Request a trail guide!

Decorah

IOWA

563-202-8529 |visitdecorah.com DECORAH CHAMBER WINNESHIEK DEVELOPMENT

20 Summer 2019

Minnesota Trails

2019

Bike Trail Guide Trestle bridge crossing over the Le Sueur River on the Red Jacket Trail. Jan Lasar photo

MINNESOTA’S BIKE TRAILS 45 Destinations for Adventures across the State Afton to Lakeland Trail • 4 miles

Casey Jones State Trail • 12 miles total

Afton

Pipestone & Currie

This paved, flat trail travels through the scenic St. Croix Valley. Start at Afton City Hall and ride north through St. Mary’s Point and Lake St. Croix Beach. In Lakeland, you’ll cross the I-94 bridge across the Mississippi River into Hudson, WI where the trail ends at a Dairy Queen between Birkmose and Lakefront Parks.

The trail consists of three main sections, not yet connected to one another: Five paved miles east out of Pipestone, 2.5 miles of natural surface west of Lake Wilson and a six mile paved loop between Lake Shetek State Park and Currie. Eventually, the Casey Jones Trail will span 120 miles between Luverne and Redwood Falls.

Blazing Star State Trail • 6.5 miles

Centennial Trail • 8 miles

Albert Lea to Myre-Big Island State Park

Villard to Glenwood

The Blazing Star State Trail connects the city of Albert Lea with Myre-Big Island State Park with a planned future connection to Hayward and Austin, where it will connect to the Shooting Star Trail. The trail is groomed for fat tire biking in the winter.

Start in Villard and ride the paved trail to Glenwood. Connects with a bike route around Lake Minnewaska.

Cuyuna Lakes State Trail • 9 miles Crosby

A multi-purpose bike and pedestrian trail from Luverne to Blue Mounds State Park, across rolling prairies, woodlands and striking rock formations. Future connection to planned 6-mile Luverne Loop city trail.

The longest completed part of the Cuyuna Country Trail starts in Crosby, and travels through the Cuyuna Country Recreation Area. Two more sections are currently paved: Brainerd (1.5 miles) and Aitkin (0.5 miles). It will eventually connect the city of Aitkin to the Paul Bunyan Trail. The 7-mile segment is groomed for fat tire biking in the winter.

Camden Regional Trail • 15 miles

Dairyland Trail • 6.2 miles

Blue Mound Trail • 6 miles Luverne to Blue Mounds State Park

Marshall to Camden State Park

Greenwald to Elrosa

The Camden Regional Trail connects the southwestern Minnesota town of Marshall to nearby Camden State Park and makes for a nice afternoon outing in southwestern Minnesota. There are plenty of benches to rest along the Camden Regional Trail and interpretive kiosks with maps tell the natural and historical story of the area. Marshall’s network of on and off-street bike routes take you to some of the city’s numerous parks and Camden State Park offers about 5 miles of mountain bike trails.

This limestone surfaced trail connects the villages of Greenwald and Elrosa and will one day reach the Lake Wobegon Trail in Albany.

Minnesota Trails

Dakota Rail Regional Trail • 25.5 miles Wayzata to Lester Prairie This paved trail follows what was once the corridor of the Dakota Rail through the towns of Wayzata, Orono, Minnetonka Beach, Spring Park, Mound, Minnetrista, St. Bonifacius, Mayer, New Germany and Lester Prairie. Wonderful lake views and scenery that changes from urban to rural make it worth a trip. After you pass through New Germany, the trail continues paved for about another two miles. The last couple of miles to Lester Prairie are gravel. An extension of the Dakota Rail Trail

west into Lester Prairie in McLeod County is planned for 2019 and the long-term vision has it extend west into Hutchinson to link up with the Luce Line State Trail. In Wayzata, trail users can connect to the 63-mile Luce Line state trail and go east to Plymouth and west to Cosmos on a variety of surfaces.

Douglas State Trail • 12.7 miles Rochester to Pine Island A pleasant ride from Pine Island to Rochester via the town of Douglas. It’s the perfect outand-back ride and it connects with Rochester’s extensive city trail network.

Fair Ridge Bike Trail • 5 miles Fairfax to Fort Ridgely State Park Connects the city of Fairfax with Fort Ridgely State Park. Start at the Fairfax Railroad Depot Museum and bike south toward the state park and the Minnesota River.

Flower Valley Trail • 4.25 miles near Wacouta Township This paved trail is not currently connected to anything, but makes for a nice, short trip into the countryside. It’ll take some exploring to get to, but you can access its eastern end just south of the intersection of Highway 61 and Flower Valley Road near Red Wing. It currently ends at the intersection of Flower Valley Road and Highway 58 near the Red Wing State College campus, but a two and a half-mile combination of city trails and roads takes you past Twin Bluffs Middle School where, near the intersection of Pioneer Road and County Road 1, you’ll find the trailhead for the Goodhue Pioneer State Trail.

Glendalough Trail • 12 miles Battle Lake to Glendalough State Park The trail starts at the Battle Lake Community Center and connects with a loop trail around Annie Battle and Molly Stark Lakes inside the park. Ride back to Battle Lake to complete a 12-mile loop.

Summer 2019 21

2019

Bike Trail Guide Goodhue Pioneer State Trail • 9 miles

Okabena Lake Trail • 5.5 miles

Saint James and Watline Trail • 9 miles

in two sections Red Wing and Zumbrota

Worthington

St. James

This loop of road routes and paved trail around Okabena Lake connects eight city parks and crosses a bicycle bridge near Lakefront Park.

The four-mile St. James Area Bike Trail circles Saint James Lake and connects to the 5-mile Watline Trail which takes you to Long Lake Wayside Park in southwestern Watonwan County. An extension of the trail south into Normsby is in the works.

This trail is a work in progress. Currently, two short, paved sections exist. A four-mile stretch starts at the southern end of the 1.5mile Hay Creek Trail on Pioneer Road in Red Wing and takes riders through the Richard J. Dorer State Forest to Hay Creek. The other paved section travels north five miles from Zumbrota. When complete, the trail will be 47 miles long and connect Red Wing with Pine Island.

Great Northern Trail • 4.75 miles

Rainy Lake Trail • 12 miles Rainy Lake to International Falls The Rainy Lake Recreation Trail is a combination road route and paved stand alone trail. It starts near the Rainy Lake Visitor Bureau, follows the south shore of Rainy River and terminates at the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for Voyageurs National Park.

Elk River This paved trail on an abandoned railroad grade connects the southern and northern ends of Elk River, MN. Plans are to extend it north to Zimmerman and Princeton.

Great River Ridge State Trail • 13 miles Plainview This paved trail is flat and level and travels through scenic bluff country near Carley and Whitewater State Parks. Future expansions will connect it to the town of Eyota and Carley State Park.

Rattlesnake Bluff Trail • 4 miles Wacouta Township This short, paved loop with some out and back connections starts at the Wacouta township hall and circles Grotes Pond. It’s worth exploring for its majestic views of Rattlesnake Bluff on the Mississippi River. This trail will become part of the Mississippi Blufflands State Trail, which is currently in the planning stages.

Red Jacket Trail • 12 miles Mankato

Hardwood Creek Trail • 9.5 miles Hugo The 9.5-mile Hardwood Creek Trail starts in Hugo and travels through Forest Lake. At the Washington/Chisago County line it connects with the 17.5 mile Sunrise Prairie Trail.

Hay Creek Trail • 1.5 miles Red Wing This scenic trail along the namesake creek is short, but it makes the vital connection between the Cannon Valley Trail in Red Wing and the Goodhue Pioneer Trail.

Lake Bronson Trail • 2.5 miles Lake Bronson This short, paved trail connects the town of Lake Bronson with Lake Bronson State Park’s visitor center and the Pioneer Cemetery.

Lake Koronis Trail • 18 miles Paynesville The trail is a combination of paved trail and signed on-road route on the shoulder of a Rustic Road. Parking is available at Veterans Park near Paynesville. This trail connects with the Glacial Lakes State Trail.

Leaf River Recreational Trail • 4 miles Wadena Starts at Wadena’s Sunnybrook Park and connects to a bike route to make a loop of 10.5 miles.

Mi Gi Zi Trail • 14 miles Cass Lake This loop around Pike Bay is easily accessible from the Heartland Trail. Near Cass Lake, where the trail intersects with County Road 76, connect to the Mi Gi Zi Trail by riding about a half mile east on a signed road route. Follow the trail counterclockwise around Pike Bay’s beautiful shores and the Chippewa National Forest and arrive at a trailhead north of Pike Bay after about ten miles. A signed bike route connects back to the Heartland Trail. 22 Summer 2019

The Red Jacket trail between Mankato and Rapidan crosses over three railroad trestles, including historic Red Jacket Trestle, which is 80 feet high and 550 feet long and has great views of the Blue Earth River. It connects to Mankato’s city network of trails and the Minneopa Trail into Minneopa State Park.

ROCORI Trail • 5 miles Cold Spring The paved Rockville-Cold Spring-Richmond (RoCoRi) Trail is a great ride through granite country in Southwest Stearns County. Currently completed: A 5-mile section between Cold Spring and Richmond.

Root River/Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail • 60 miles Southeastern Minnesota’s Bluff Country The Root River and Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail system in the heart of southeastern Minnesota’s Bluff Country is one of the major trail destinations in Minnesota. Scenic views, historic buildings and points of interest along both trails attract visitors from all over and the rural communities in this trail network provide many services. The Root River Trail runs from Fountain all the way through Lanesboro, Whalan, Peterson, Rushford and Houston for a total of 42 miles. At Isinours Junction it connects with the 18-mile-long Harmony-Preston Valley Trail. The northern two thirds of this trail are built on abandoned railroad grade and are fairly flat. The southern segment leaves the constraints of the railroad bed and climbs to the rim of the valley with great views of the countryside. A connection of the Harmony-Preston Valley Trail south toward Niagara Cave and then the Iowa border is currently being worked on. On the Iowa side trail groups are working to connect the Trout Run and Prairie Farmer trails near Decorah to the Minnesota side to form an interstate trail network.

Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail • 39 miles Mankato to Faribault This paved, abandoned railroad bed passes through cool, wooded areas as well as open, sun-drenched farm fields and connects the communities of Mankato, Madison Lake, Elysian, Waterville, Morristown, Warsaw and Faribault. Connections include the paved 12-mile Red Jacket trail between Mankato and Rapidan. (It crosses over three railroad trestles, including historic Red Jacket Trestle, which is 80 feet high and 550 feet long.) The North Minnesota River Trail brings cyclists from the Sakatah Trail through downtown Mankato into the Sibley City Park, where they can connect with the paved Minneopa Trail directly into Minneopa State Park. Also accessible is Mankato’s city bike trail system of over 50 miles. Future connections on the Faribault side include the Mill Towns Trail into Cannon Falls, where it connects to the Cannon Valley Trail into Red Wing.

Sleepy Eye Lake Bike Trail • 3 miles Sleepy Eye Ride this paved trail around Sleepy Eye Lake year-round. Access at Allison and Sportsmen’s Parks.

Starbuck Trail • 5 miles Starbuck to Glacial Lakes State Park Connects the city of Starbuck with Glacial Lakes State Park. Access a bike route around Lake Minnewaska from this trail.

Sunrise Prairie Trail • 15 miles North Branch The Sunrise Prairie Trail starts in North Branch. At the Washington/Chisago County line it connects with the Hardwood Creek Trail into Hugo.

Swedish Immigrant Trail • 6 miles Lindstrom to Chisago City When complete, the Swedish Immigrant Trail will connect the town of Wyoming on the Sunrise Prairie Trail to Interstate State Park and be about 20 miles long. Currently, some short segments exist: A three-mile paved section between Lindstrom and Chisago City, a 2-mile piece through Shafer and a 1.8-mile route traveling southwest from Interstate State Park.

Western Waterfront Trail • 5 miles Duluth At the end of the Willard Munger State Trail in Duluth, at Pulaski Street, you can access the Western Waterfront Trail. This packed gravel trail runs along the St. Louis River shoreline from the Spirit Lake Marina to near Fremont Street in Duluth’s Irving neighborhood.

Minnesota Trails

2019

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

LUCE LINE

19 29 39 44 51.5 63

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Luce Line

LEGEND

12 22 30 37 44.5 55

STATE TRAIL

10 18 25 32.5 43 15 22.5 33

7 14.5 24.5 7.5 17.5

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63 MILES ON A VARIETY OF SURFACES

Paved (Asphalt) Undeveloped Adjacent Horse Trail Crushed Aggregate Base Crushed Limestone Public Campground State Park P Parking Restroom Picnic/Rest Area

13 23 31 38 45.5 56

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Find More Maps at

les

Western Portion Eastern Portion Cedar

Cedar 22 Mills

Cosmos

26 MEEKER CO. Boon Lake

Belle Lake

Otter Lake

22 14

RENVILLE CO.

76 12

Winsted Winsted Lake

21 5

Proposed

MCLEOD CO. CARVER CO.

WRIGHT CO.

103

20 122

261 South Lake

Luce Line State Trail

17 Rice Lake

P 10

P 21

63 miles

The Luce Line State Trail stretches 63 miles in a westerly direction from the metro suburb of Plymouth to the small town of Cosmos in west-central Minnesota. Along the way you’ll visit the communities of Wayzata, Watertown, Winsted, Hutchinson, Silver Lake and Cedar Mills. It runs on a former railroad line covered with a variety of surfaces ranging from crushed limestone between Plymouth and Winsted, pavement between Winsted and just west of Hutchinson, gravel between Hutchinson and Cedar Mills to a mowed grass path between Cedar Mills and Cosmos. The western trailhead is just west of Cosmos in a county park on Thompson Lake. While it starts in the heart of the western

Watertown

122

Oak Lake Mud L.

12 Independence

Katrina Lake

Long Lake

P 61

Gleason Lake

146 Orono

Parkers Lake

Wayzata

il Trail Dakota Ra

135

16 51

Mound

suburbs, the Luce Line Trail offers a varied landscape of woodland, marsh and lakes with a portion running through remnants of the Big Woods and stands of maple and basswood. A horse trail parallels the Luce Line between Hutchinson and Plymouth. History: The trailway dates back to the old Electric Short Line of 1908, which moved goods and passengers in and out of the Twin Cities. It was renamed Luce Line after the family who owned and extended it as far as Lake Lillian. After the railroad ceased operations, the DNR acquired parts of the corridor to create the state’s first nature trail in 1970. By 1975 the state owned most of the right of way and between 1977 and 1980 built the trail to Winsted. In 2015, a 23-mile section between Winsted and Hutchinson was paved.

Plymouth

12 Stubbs Bay

Minnetrista Dutch Lake

55 101 Wood-Rill S.N.A.

6 Summer Only

151

Whaletail Lake

p Lester Prairie

201

Lyndale

92 15

Mud Lake

Baker Park Reserve

26 Ox Yoke Lake

Maple Plain

261

www.MNTrails.com

92 HENNEPIN CO.

M ar y

Butler Lake

Silver Lake

Hutchinson

Crow River

South Fork

n An

Swan Lake

Silver Lake

115

L. L. Emma

Proposed Winsted Lake

Eastern Portion 30

33 Winsted

Hooke Lake

(mowed grass)

Lake

Th om p

South Fork Crow River

MCLEOD CO.

4 Thompson Lake

www.MNTrails.com

Lake Minnetonka

West Arm

394

494

Connections: The Luce Line State Trail allows access to many Twin Cities metro area trails. In Plymouth, the natural surface part of the Luce Line State Trail connects to the paved Luce Line Regional Trail, which ends east of Sweeney Lake in Golden Valley, but further connections are ahead. At Medicine Lake this section connects to the 13-mile Medicine Lake Regional Trail and the Basset Creek Regional Trail. The Medicine Lake Trail ends at Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove. Connections from here include the Rush Creek and Crystal Lake Regional Trails. In Wayzata, a short ride on city roads will take trail users to the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, which continues roughly southwest for 26 miles and ends just west of New Germany.

EXPLORE… the LUCE LINE STATE TRAIL

Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce & Tourism

800.572.6689 info@explorehutchinson.com Minnesota Trails

ExploreHUTCHINSON.com #MuchInHutch

Summer 2019 23

Shooting Star

2019

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE Jay C. Hormel

Austin Nature Center

SHOOTING STAR

Elkton

LEGEND

STATE TRAIL

Undeveloped Trail Paved Trail P Parking Restroom

Rose Creek

25 MILES PAVED 7

207

218

27 217

LeR oy

Adams

6 11.5

203

ist

ces

Taopi

230

P Underpass

18 Little Cedar River

Ad am

a Tot

s Ro se C Hw r y. 5 eek 8

North Branch

Adams City Park

5.5

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River

10 15.5

Tao pi

wa Upper Io

19 10 14 20 25.5 4

240

Lake Louise State Park

208 56

56 278

Lake Louise

244

245

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www.MNTrails.com

236

P P

LeRoy

Shooting Star State Trail 25 miles

Rural Minnesota scene on the new section of the trail near Rose Creek. Jan Lasar photo

The Shooting Star Trail is a 25-mile, paved trail through remnants of tall grass prairies with an abundance of native wildflowers. Much of it is built on an abandoned railroad grade. The eastern terminus is in LeRoy, MN, which is on MN Hwy 56 just west of its junction with US 63 right above the Iowa/ Minnesota state line. The trail soon passes through Lake Louise State Park and continues northwest to the town of Taopi and then on to Adams. The western trailhead is the town of Rose Creek, but the trail continues towards Austin for another 5.5 miles. Highlights: Remnant tallgrass prairie with wildflowers like prairie smoke, rattlesnake master, wild indigo, aster, goldenrod and blazing star wildflowers. The trail passes by several interpretive and recreational opportunities, including Rustic Retreat Wildlife Management Area, Shooting Star Prairie Scientific and Natural Area, Taopi Prairie Interpretive Area and Mower County Natural and Scenic Area. Connections: An extension to Austin is underway. The trail will terminate at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center.

21st Annual Shooting Star Bike Ride Saturday, June 22, 2019 20 and 40 miles - Trail Only 50 and 62 miles - Road and Trail

Starting in Adams, MN

Find out more at shootingstartrail.org 24 Summer 2019

Trail shelter built in the style of a Norwegian church. Becky Hartwig photo Minnesota Trails

2019

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

GATEWAY/ BROWN’S CREEK

P Pine Point County Park

STATE TRAIL 24 MILES PAVED

Grant P

Stillwater

White Bear Lake Vadnais-Snail Lakes Reg. Parks

Mahtomedi

Duluth Brown’s Creek Trail Junction

35E

Vadnais Lakes

Little Canada Gervais L.

L. Owasso

North St. Paul

Phalen-Keller Regional Park

18.3 miles of paved trail from St. Paul to Stillwater. 5.9 miles Brown’s Creek Trail.

Oakdale Bike Trail Rest Area P Parking

Minnehaha Ave.

St. Paul

18.3 miles

The Gateway Trail is a true getaway trail starting deep in metropolitan St. Paul, just a mile from the State Capitol. It finishes after 18.3 miles at Pine Point Regional Park, five miles north of Stillwater. The trail is open to biking, hiking, horseback riding, in-line skating and skiing and is wheelchair accessible. The paved trail on the old Soo Line railway grade quickly changes from an urban trail to a rural trail with forests, lakes, wetlands and prairies, with very little development and road noise.

5.9 miles

ail Roseville e Tr 35E Connection choices at Duluth Junction. Jan Maplewood tat Lasar photo S ay P ew Keller L. Gat P Lake Phalen

Gateway State Trail

Brown’s Creek State Trail

694

Gateway

Find More Maps at

www.MNTrails.com

About 15 miles from St. Paul on the Gateway Trail, at Duluth Junction, the Brown’s Creek Trail starts and runs 5.9 miles into downtown Stillwater. It passes through heavily wooded areas and past golf courses. The final miles of the Brown’s Creek trail follow the St. Croix River into Stillwater. Connections: The Gateway State Trail provides access to other trail opportunities in Phalen-Keller Regional Park, the Bruce Vento Trail, and connections to Stillwater. The Brown’s Creek trail will eventually cross the St. Croix River into Wisconsin on the historic lift bridge in Stillwater.

Fall colors on the Gateway Trail. Aaron Deutsch photo

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Mesabi

2019

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

Winton

Shagawa Lake

MESABI

Fortune Bay Bois Forte Heritage Museum and RV Park

Mt. Iron

Chisholm Museum of Mining

Kinney

10 17 22 35 45.2 53.7 7

ces

10.2 18.7 8.5

169

13 23.2 31.7

18 28.2 36.7

Bu h Vir l gin Mc i Kin a Gia l nts ey R id ge ®

Swan Lake

bin

Pengilly

Calumet

Ch g idh olm

Oxhide Lake Overlook

12 25 35.2 43.7 5

Ke ew ati n

13 23 30 35 48 58.2 66.7

ist

les

169

Nashwauk

16.3 29.3 39.3 46.3 51.3 64.3 74.5 83

Grand 2 Rapids

Taconite Coleraine Bovey 61

Hill Annex Mine State Park Marble

Hibbing

Keewatin

110

a Tot

Hoyt Lakes Aurora 135 37

Hib

Minnesota Discovery Center

Biwabik

McKinley Gilbert 7 Sparta Eveleth Fayal 53 Veteran’s Park & Campground

US Hockey Hall fo Fame

Buhl 169

Virginia

Giants Ridge Golf & Ski Resort

169

Chisholm Hull Rush Mine Overlook Greyhound Bus Museum

169

Gra nd Ra pid e s

Babbitt

State Park

Birch Lake

Embarrass

P Parking

Find More Maps at www.MNTrails.com

Boundary Waters Canoe Area

21 Bear Head Lake State Park Bar Head Lake

Being completed summer 2019

McCarthy Beach State Park

Public Campground

135

169

135 MILES PAVED

International Wolf Center

Soudan

Tower

Ely

North American Bear Center

169

rbl

LEGEND

Lake Vermilion

TRAIL

U.S. Route Bike Trail Future Trail State Route County Route

Lake Vermillion - Soudan Underground Mine State Park

LaPrairie 2

Mesabi Trail 135 miles The wonders of the Mesabi Iron Range are in a class by themselves. Via the Mesabi Trail, cyclists, walkers and hikers can enjoy over 135 miles of paved trail stretching from the Mississippi River (Grand Rapids) to the Boundary Waters (Ely), and connecting 28 communities. When completed in 3 to 5 years, that mileage will expand to 155 miles. The trail runs through a wide range of scenery, from dramatic views of mining operations, to secluded woods, a jungle of vegetation, mine lakes and reservoirs. The trail traverses forest, meadows, rivers, streams and lakes in a region bound on the east end by the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and on the west by the Mississippi River. In between, the Mesabi Trail takes visitors past the edges of the open pit mines of the Iron Range and areas abundant with wildlife, nature and the rich heritage of hardy pioneers. Unlike a lot of paved trails in the state, the Mesabi Trail is created from old logging and mining roads, former roadways, some abandoned rail grade and new trail through the forest. There are even a couple of floating bridges. The trail crosses Minnesota’s tallest

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26 Summer 2019

The campground at Itasca County Fairgrounds Park has room for 80 campers under red and white pines. Jan Lasar photo Minnesota Trails

2019

bridge just outside of Virginia. It spans 1,132 feet and crosses the Rouchleau mine lake 200 feet above the water’s surface for a spectacular view from your bike seat. Currently, over 75 continuous miles stretch from Grand Rapids to McKinley. After a short diversion to the shoulder of Hwy 135, riders can re-connect with the trail again just outside of Biwabik, with another 15 miles taking them past Giant’s Ridge Recreation Area back to Hwy 135. There are another ten miles around Tower/ Soudan, including trail through the new Lake Vermilion Soudan Underground Mine State Park, and six miles near Eagles Nest Lakes off Hwy 169 on the way to Ely. There are additional spurs into communities like Chisholm and the Minnesota Discovery Center, Eveleth (with the world’s largest hockey stick), and Aurora. Off the bike you can tour a mine, a logging camp, the Greyhound bus museum or visit the childhood homes of Judy Garland and Bob Dylan. Many campgrounds and local parks are easily accessible from the trail, highways and nearby communities. Food, lodging, shopping, antiquing, golfing, fishing, camping and swimming are all in close proximity to segments of the trail, with communities and services available near all entry points. Connections: By the end the summer of 2019, an additional five miles will extend from Hwy 135 to Embarrass. This new portion of the trail is highlighted by a three-quartermile long floating bridge crossing the Embarrass Wetland Complex and Darwin Meyer State Wildlife Management Area. This new section includes abandoned wild rice paddies from the 1980’s, and a rehabilitated circa 1927 wooden bridge crossing the Embarrass River. Minnesota Trails

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

Mesabi

The longest continuous segment of the Mesabi Trail stretches from Grand Rapids to McKinley. Jan Lasar photo

135 Miles of paved trail,

But who’s counting? mesabitrail.com

Cannon Valley

2019

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

CANNON VALLEY

3.6 9.6 19.4

TRAIL

a Tot

19.7 MILES PAVED

To Hastings

9.8 61

Ca nno nF alls der s We lch on Re st A S Re d W t atio n A rea ing c ce ss

6.0 15.8

316

ist

Welch Station Access

ces

Red Wing

Mi les Hidden Valley Campground (private)

Welch

Cann o

n Riv er

Lake Byllesby Regional Park

Mill Towns Trail

LEGEND

To Twin Cities

Anderson Memorial Rest Area

Cannon Falls 19

Goodhue County Park

Cannon Falls Campground (private)

Oak Lane

Lake Byllesby

Find More Maps at

To Rochester

U.S. Route Bike Trail Paved City Trail 200 State Route County Route Public Campground State Park P Parking Restroom Picnic W Water

www.MNTrails.com

Cannon Valley Trail 19.7 miles The paved Cannon Valley Trail from Cannon Falls to Red Wing follows an old Chicago Great Western railroad route and hugs the Cannon River. The trail is bordered by cliffs and lined with wildflowers, often under the canopy of lush trees. The trail is open year-round for non-motorized use and groomed for cross-country skiing in the winter. It also has several interpretive sites as well as rest stops with benches, water and

toilets. Trail users need to purchase a wheel pass. Along the Trail: In Cannon Falls, the city section of the trail begins in a park on the Cannon River near the falls that gave the city its name. This half-mile trail winds around the park, picnic areas and ponds before heading through a residential area to the official start of the Cannon Valley Trail. Seventeen old mileage markers can be seen along the trail’s route. Originally, these concrete

posts were used to identify the number of miles from Mankato, which explains why you’ll see these same markers on the Sakatah Trail. The little town of Welch is the midpoint of the ride and has a rest stop that includes bathrooms. The trail then passes by Cannon River Turtle Preserve SNA, Red Wing, Silvernale Archaeology Preserves and a wetland observation deck, before reaching the downtown Red Wing trailhead near the historic Pottery Place.

Memorial Park Mountain Bike Trails

Red Wing, MN

RedWing.org

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Welchvillage.com Minnesota Trails

2019 Connections: At Cannon Falls the trail connects to the Mill Towns Trail, which will eventually link to the Sakatah Singing Hills Trail at Faribault. Currently paved sections of the Mill Towns Trail: Two miles at Cannon Falls, three miles between Dundas and Northfield, two miles east from Faribault. Another connection in Red Wing takes you

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

Cannon Valley

down the 5-mile northern portion of the Goodhue Pioneer Trail, which currently ends at the Hay Creek Campground, but will one day connect to the Douglas State Trail near Rochester. Another future trail connection includes the Mississippi Blufflands State Trail, which will link Red Wing with Lake City.

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You, our mountain bike and an instructor to show you how.

Learn How! mnDNR.gov/ICan The Cannon Valley Trail crosses Trail Run Creek at the Anderson Memorial Rest Area. Jan Lasar photo Minnesota Trails

Summer 2019 29

Hastings Loop

2019

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

3.3 miles to Schaar’s Bluff Trailhead

La ke Re be cca ER RD

i ipp iss r iss ve M Ri

Point Douglas Trail Connection

HASTINGS 10-MILE LOOP

1ST ST W

10 MILES

P E

Lake Isabel

BAILEY ST.

PINE ST

2ND ST W 4TH ST. W

PLEASANT DR.

GENERAL SIEBEN DR.

15TH ST. W

VERMILLION ST.

10TH ST. E

P G 18TH ST. E

RAVE NNA TRL

P SPIRAL BLVD

U.S. Route Bike Trail MRT Connection County Route Parks Parking Points of Interest

A - Scenic Overlook B - River Dike Trail C - Federal Lock and Dam #2 D - Scenic Overlook E - Hastings Bridge Plaza F - Off Leash Dog Park G - Leduc Mansion H - Disc Golf Course I - Vermillion River Falls J - Whitewater Rafting K - Vermillion River Gorge Bridge L - Old Mill Ruins

G IN W D D RE BLV

Points of Interest

Bullfrog Pond

er lion Riv Vermil 160TH ST. E

LEGEND

J K

Peaceful scene on the Vermillion River. Lee Stoffel photo

316

Find More Maps at www.MNTrails.com

• 30 miles of city trails • Bike the Scenic Circuit: A 10-mile loop around the city. • Ride the MRT

Area

Cham Cha CChamber Ch hham ambber er of of Comme Coomme ommerce mmerc rrce ce & To T Tou ouuris ris ris ism Bureau Bu Bure reauu

651-437-6775 or visit www.visithastingsmn.org

Hastings Ten Mile Loop 10 miles The paved Ten Mile Loop is the highlight of Hasting’s 30-mile trail system. Numerous city parks and points of interest invite you to park the bike and explore. The trail takes you along the Mississippi River, allowing you to practically step out onto the river on an overlook platform and watch the boats and barges go by. Continue along the trail past Lock and Dam #2, over a dike holding back the Mississippi backwaters, and up to a gorgeous river bluff overlook to catch glimpses of Bald Eagles soaring overhead. Travel along the Mississippi River, but also along the banks of the Vermillion River, using underpasses on County Road 46/47 and Highway 61 to stop for a break at Vermillion Falls Park, where you can take in beautiful, 35-foot Vermillion Falls in a limestone ravine. Another highlight along the route is the new Hastings Riverwalk, which connects two city parks located right on the Mississippi River. Levee Park is a perfect spot for summer entertainment with an outdoor concert venue that fills up with live music, classes and outdoor movies from May through September. Other must-see stops are the Vermillion Gorge Bridge with its expansive river views and ruins of the old Ramsey Mill. Connections: On the northwestern edge of the loop near Egle Bluff Park, connect with the Mississippi River Trail Scenic Bikeway (MRT) and reach the Schaar’s Bluff trailhead at Spring Lake Park Reserve after a brief three-mile road ride. At Hastings Bridge Plaza the northeastern edge of the trail, take the paved Point Douglas Regional Trail, also part of the MRT, across the Mississippi River into Prescott, WI.

The trail in the Hastings river flats with the iconic bridge in the background. Lee Stoffel photo 30 Summer 2019

Minnesota Trails

2019

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

Central Lakes

Participants of the Rail Trails 100 Bike Tour are ready to take on a century ride . Jan Lasar photo

Central Lakes State Trail 55 miles The 55-mile-long, paved trail starts at the Fergus Falls trailhead on Highway 210 and travels southeast through the communities of Dalton, Ashby, Melby, Evansville, Brandon, Garfield, Alexandria, Nelson and Osakis. The trail, a former railroad grade, is generally flat and level. It passes through a varied landscape of woods, grasslands, lakes, wetlands and farm fields. Communities with rest stops and amenities are generally seven to ten miles apart. The Central Lakes Trail is open to non-motorized use and groomed for snowmobiling in the winter. Along the Trail: The official Fergus Falls Trailhead is near the intersection of Minnesota Highway 210 and 19th Street, where you can find parking, bathrooms,

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Right oﬀ the Central Lakes Trail 419 N. Nokomis Street, Alexandria

Minnesota Trails

CALL

Rates Greaat ckages &P E ONLIN

Summer 2019 31

2019 13 19 25 30 34 39 49

aki s

14 20 25 29 34 44 6

12 17 21 26 36 6

11 15 20 30 9

14 24

Bra n Eva don nsv Me lby ille As hby Da lt Fer on gus Fal ls

ces an ist

55 MILES PAVED

D al Tot

STATE TRAIL

11 19 25 31 36 40 45 55

n Ale xan Ga d r rfie ia ld

CENTRAL LAKES

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

Ne lso

Central Lakes

19 15 10

M in

s ile

picnic facilities, a bike repair station and play sculpture. Camping is available at DeLagoon Park, about a mile down the trail from the trailhead. This large park also offers a swimming beach and picnic facilities. Traveling from Fergus Falls you’ll cross the Continental Divide, where water flows south into the Mississippi or north into Hudson Bay. The small communities along the trail tuck in neatly between reed-lined lakes and the occasional farm field and you’ll easily find camping, restaurants and places to rest. Stop for a photo op at the well-known statue of Big Ole the Viking at the north end of downtown Alexandria, near the Runestone

Museum. If you’re visiting in early summer, keep an eye out for pink or yellow Lady’s Slippers blooming along the trail. A Combined History: The Lake Wobegon and Central Lakes Trail are built on the rail corridor formerly owned by Burlington Northern Railroad Company. As the profitability of the railroad line declined, Burlington Northern leased use of the tracks to smaller short line railroads. One of the last such companies was the Otter Tail Valley Railroad, which ran trains between Moorhead, MN and Avon, MN, from 1986 until1991, when the line was officially abandoned. The Lake Wobegon Regional

Trail opened in 1998 and the Central Lakes State Trail was dedicated in 2005. The two trails officially joined near Osakis, MN in 2007. Connections: Just east of Osakis, the Central Lakes State Trail connects to the 65-mile-long, paved Lake Wobegon Trail. From DeLagoon Park, city bike routes take you to Grotto Lake Park with the famous statue of Otto the Otter. Feasibility of a connecting trail between Fergus Falls and Pelican Rapids is being explored. Another trail in the planning stages would connect Ashby to Battle Lake and Glendalough State Park.

RAIL TRAILS 100 BIKE TOUR

August 3, 2019 Fergus Falls to Saint Joseph www.RailTrails100.com 32 Summer 2019

55 miles of beautiful, paved rail-trails across central Minnesota. Visit CentralLakesTrail.com for maps and resources Minnesota Trails

2019

Lake Wobegon Regional Trail trail ends in Osakis and connects to Central Lakes Trail

Lake Osakis

Osakis P

127

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

LAKE WOBEGON

Lake Wobegon

Charles A. Lindbergh State Park

Little Falls

REGIONAL TRAIL 65 MILES PAVED

Blanchard Dam

Royalton West Union P

Bowlus

Soo L Tra ine il

Sauk Lake

iss

County Line 71

2.3 miles

Sauk Centre

McCormick Lake

14 20.5 26.5 35 42.5 48.5

11 17.5 23.5 32 39.5 45.5

Sauk River

Melrose P

Freeport Lake

Freeport P

Uhlenholts Lake

6.5 12.5 21 28.5 34.5 6 14.5 22 28 8.5 16 22 7.5 13.5

ist

ces

LEGEND

les

Minnesota Trails

Mill Pond

6 12.5 18.5 27.0 34.5 40.5

Alb a Fre ny epo Me r t lr Sau ose We k Cen s Os t Uni tre aki on s

a Tot

Wa ite P St. Jos ark Co e ph lle g Avo evi lle n

2.3 5.3 10.3 16.3 22.8 28.8 37.3 44.8 50.8 3

P Holdingford

State Park Lake Wobegon/ Soo Line Trail City Trail Campground Parking Restroom Shelter

ve r

NORTHERN SPUR Lake Wobegon Albany to Holdingford Holdingford to County Line

9.4 miles 3.5 miles

Soo Line County Line to Bowlus Bowlus to Blanchard Dam Blanchard Dam to HWY 10

4.0 miles 3.5 miles 2.5 miles

Two Rivers Lakes

Albany

Albany Lake

Avon P

Lower Spunk Lake

Ochotto Lake Lake Anna

Middle Spunk Lake

Upper Spunk Lake

Find More Maps at www.MNTrails.com

Linneman Lake Minnie Lake

Saint John’s University

St. Joseph P

Kraemer Lake

River’s Edge Park

Sagatagan Lake

College of St. Benedict’s

r ive

St. Cloud Waite Park

Summer 2019 33

Lake Wobegon

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

2019

Lake Wobegon Regional Trail 65 miles The paved Lake Wobegon Trail extends through the Central Minnesota counties of Stearns and Todd from Waite Park to Osakis through the state’s leading dairy county. The trail also has an extension from Albany heading northeast to Holdingford and the Stearns/Morrison County line. The trail is home to ten communities, three lakes, two colleges, two monasteries and the boyhood home of Nobel Prize winner Sinclair Lewis in Sauk Centre. Starting at Rivers Edge Park in Waite Park, you’ll cross the Sauk River on this newest section of the Lake Wobegon Trail. En route to St. Joseph you ride along natural areas and farm fields. A few miles outside of

Visit Home of Sinclair Lewis’ Original “Main Street”

Pick up the Lake Wobegon Trail on any street in Sauk Centre.

Stop by for a bite, an overnight or even shopping on Original “Main Street.” VISITSAUKCENTRE.ORG • 855-444-SAUK

Camping!

The Lake Wobegon trail travels through rural central Minnesota. Jan Lasar photo St. Joseph, see the old town of Collegeville, which now consists of only a few homes, but once had a popular train depot, boarding house, post office and store. You can turn left at Collegeville for a 2.5-mile side trip to Saint John’s University. At Avon, you’ll find shelters, bathrooms, a water fountain and a two-storied lookout tower/shelter that gives you a bird’s eye view of the surrounding region. The next 5.5 miles is perhaps the most beautiful along this stretch of trail, with deeper woods, prairies and lakes. Keep an eye out for Lady’s Slipper orchids in May and June. Just west of Albany, a spur of the Lake Wobegon Trail goes north nine miles to Holdingford, home of Minnesota’s longest covered bridge. This spur connects with the paved Soo Line Trail at the county line and offers pastoral views of a natural landscape. The Soo Line trail goes through Bowlus, crosses the Mississippi River at Blanchard Dam and ends at a trailhead on Highway 10. West of Albany, you’ll find Freeport,

the birthplace of Lake Wobegon. Garrison Keillor is said to have had the inspiration for some of his fictional places here. Head west for 5.7 miles to Melrose, home of the Melrose Area Museum. The official Melrose Trailhead is across the road near the Melrose Feed Mill. When you arrive in Sauk Centre, take a detour to see the Original Main Street made famous by Sinclair Lewis in his novel, “Main Street.” Farther up, you will find a city trail dropping back to Sinclair Lewis Park where you can find camping, bathrooms and parking. The 12-mile stretch between Sauk Centre and Osakis veers off into the country through the tiny town of West Union before entering Osakis. Connections: Just outside of Osakis, continue on to the Central Lakes State Trail, a 55-mile paved trail to Fergus Falls. At the Stearns/Morrison county line north of Albany, the Wobegon connects to the paved Soo Line Trail. A link from Sauk Centre north to Browerville is being explored.

Next to the Trail

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Holdingford

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Home of the Lake Wobegon Trail Covered Bridge Explore the newest stretch of Lake Wobegon Trail and bike the new Soo Line Trail!

Visit us Online www.holdingfordmn.us Ad courtesy of Holdingford Municipal Liquor ¥ On Sale/OȔ Sale 320-746-2264 Cyclists Welcome!

34 Summer 2019

Minnesota Trails

Where every season is above average!

-RLQ XV IRU RXU HQMR\DEOH WUDLO ULGHV

lakewobegontrail.com

Caramel R ll

100 miles: Shuttle RAIL TRAILS 100 out, ride back.

2ND SATURDAY IN JUNE

1st Saturday in August

BIKE TOUR

RIDE

6OHHS S

(DW 'ULQN

America’s Best Value Inn 322 12th St. S, Sauk Centre americasbestvalueinn.com (320) 351-7256

AmericInn by Wyndham

Bad Habit Brewing

Barbacoa

441 Railroad Ave, Albany Authentic Mexican & American food right off the trail (320) 403-1590

The Estates Bed and Breakfast

The Outpost Mercantile

615 6th St. S, Sauk Centre theoutpostmercantile.com (320) 351-7678

6HUYLFHV Joel Schneider Auto Service

701 Railroad Ave., Albany Auto, cycle, ATV & snowmobile service and accessories (320) 845-4856 Minnesota Trails

1998-2018

25 College Ave. N, St. Joseph badhabitbeer.com (320) 402 402-4442 4442

1230 Timberlane Dr, Sauk Centre wyndhamhotels.com (320) 352-2800

29 E Minnesota St., Saint Joseph estatesbedandbreakfast.com (320) 557-0300

&RPH FHOHEUDWH RYHU \HDUV RI WKH /DNH :REHJRQ 7UDLO

Avon Cabin bi Café f 105 Avon Ave. S, Avon avoncabincafe.com (320) 356-7198

Gathering Grounds

200 Avon Avenue S, Avon gatheringgroundsavon.com (320) 356-1106

Cornerstone Deli and Market

379 Railroad Ave., Albany cornerstonedeliandmarket. arvigmedia.com (320) 845-2363

Jordie’s J di ’ Trailside Café

105 1st Ave., Bowlus jordiestrailside.com (320) 584-8193

6KRS Helping Hands Outreach

Rent a surrey bike in Holdingford! holdingfordhelpinghands.org (320) 746-9960

Lake Wobegon Trail Gallery

431 Railroad Ave., Albany lakewobegontrailgallery.com (320) 845-4100

PotSpot

Paint your own pottery 107 Avon Ave. N, Avon potspotceramics.com (320) 356-2233

Summer 2019 35

Willard Munger

2019

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

Willard Munger State Trail 70 miles

Bikepacking on the Willard Munger Trail in Hinckley. Jan Lasar photo

WILLARD MUNGER

STATE TRAIL

Cromwell

St. Louis River Trail

Cloquet Scanlon Sawyer

210

Proctor

70 MILES PAVED

Otter Creek

Superior

Carlton

Lake Superior

Duluth

The 70-mile Hinckley-Duluth segment of the Willard Munger State Trail passes by Banning and Moose Lake State Parks and through the spectacular scenery of Jay Cooke State Park as it makes its way from Hinckley through Finlayson, Willow River, Moose Lake, Barnum, Mahtowa, Carlton and Duluth, where it terminates near the Lake Superior Zoo. Along the Trail: The Willard Munger Trail provides scenic views of the St. Louis River and the twin ports of Duluth and Superior. Riders can stop on a high railroad trestle to enjoy a breathtaking look over the St. Louis River near Carlton and watch kayakers take on the rapids. Move on through now-rare stands of hemlock trees, or relax on a hillside rest stop overlooking western Duluth and Lake Superior. The 16-mile Alex Laveau Memorial Trail segment starts in Carlton, passes through Wrenshall and ends at Highway 23, a combination of bike routes on paved road shoulders, city streets and paved off-road bike trail. Connections: The 2.5-mile paved St. Louis River Trail between Carlton and Scanlon is a short road ride on city streets. At the end of the trail in Duluth, at Pulaski Street, you can access the gravel-surfaced 5-mile Western Waterfront Trail. It runs along the St. Louis River shoreline from the Spirit Lake Marina to near Fremont Street in Duluthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Irving neighborhood.

P Jay Cooke State Park

St. Louis River

Wrenshall 13 23 32 36 45 55 59 70

Alex Laveau Memorial Trail 23

10 19 23 29 42 46 57 9

13 19 32 36 47

Hin ckl ey Fin lay son Wi llow Mo R iv ose er Ba rnu Lake m Ma hto wa Ca rl Wr ton ens hal Du lut l h

Mahtowa

10 23 27 38 6

Moose Lake

les

Kettle River Nickerson

Sturgeon Lake

ces

Holyoke

Moose Lake State Park

Sturgeon Lake

ist

17 21 32 11 15 26

a Tot

Barnum

Kettle River

Duquette

Kerrick

Willow River

Taking a break in Finlayson. Jan Lasar photo

Nemadji State Forest

Bruno

Rutledge 23

Finlayson 18

LEGEND

Groningen

Askov

Banning State Park Sandstone

St. Croix State Park

Friesland

U.S. Route Paved Trail Trail Bike Way State Route County Route Public Campground State Park

P Parking Find More Maps at www.MNTrails.com

St. Croix State Park

36 Summer 2019

Stop in and cool down after biking the Willard Munger Trail! Carlton, MN | (218) 461-2262

P Hinckley

Craft Beer, Wines and Spirits Hot and cold coffee drinks Baked Goods Soups and Sandwiches

magnoliacafecarlton.com Minnesota Trails

2019

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

Gitchi-Gami

Gitchi-Gami State Trail 30 miles Destined to become one of the most scenic paved trails in the nation, the GitchiGami parallels the North Shore Scenic Drive Byway, the popular Superior Hiking Trail and the Lake Superior Water Trail. Gitchi-Gami offers an active way to enjoy Minnesotaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s North Shore with fantastic views of its namesake lake. Along the Trail: The Gitchi-Gami State Trail will eventually trace 89 miles of the North Shore, weaving its way through five state parks from Two Harbors to Grand Marais. The longest trail section to date runs more than 17 miles from Gooseberry Falls State Park across the Split Rock River, through Split Rock Lighthouse State Park and Beaver Bay, and on to Silver Bay. At Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, you ride just below a wayside rest and scenic overlook with a picture-perfect view of the lighthouse. To visit the lighthouse and interpretive center, take the short spur trail leading there. Split Rock Lighthouse State Park and Beaver Bay both have trail centers with parking. The half -mile lakeside swing around Highway 61â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Silver Creek Tunnel is worth visiting on wheels or on foot for its panoramic views of Lake Superior. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a three-mile stretch of trail from Schroeder to Tofte, passing through Temperance River State Park and offering a view of Carlton Peak. This stretch could make a nice out-and-back casual ride or family trip of six miles with a stop for a hike to see the Temperance River Gorge. Navigating through the Town of Tofte, plan to take the Town Park Road, which can bring riders some excellent opportunities to engage with Lake Superior. The trail once again picks up on the northeast side of Tofte where it continues another 7.3 miles.

Gitchi-Gami State Trail Four Sections Silver Creek Cliff The Gitchi-Gami State Trail begins with a short yet impressive one-mile section of the original North Shore Drive, running 4,000 feet around the Silver Cliff Creek Tunnel northwest of Two Harbors. This section of the trail offers a spectacular vista of Lake Superior and has a reproduction of the original 1924 North Shore Gateway arch and brass plaque welcoming visitors. While this section isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ready for through traffic, you may want to park just east of the tunnel and walk across the trail bridge to enjoy the view. This is also an area to see rock climbers and a great place for travel photos..

GITCHI-GAMI

STATE TRAIL

Grand Marais Cascade River State Park

30 MILES PAVED

Lutsen P Tofte P

Temperance River State Park

Schroeder P Taconite Harbor George H. Crosby Manitou State Park

eri

p Su

Future Trail Bike Trail State Park P Parking Picnic/Rest Area Restroom Camping

Tettegouche State Park

Silver Bay P Beaver Bay P Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

P PP

Gooseberry Falls State Park

Two P Harbors

Find More Maps at

www.MNTrails.com

thought to have been an ancient route for the Temperance River into Lake Superior. There Temperance River Gorge offers spectacular views of the river and rocks below. You can also view the 1,526-foot Carlton Peak. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have to cross Highway 61 at the east end of Tofte and use the Town Road to access the community of Tofte. Trail users can use the Blue Fin Bay lake walk trail for about a half-mile to rejoin the trail on the east edge of town. This trail segment currently offers parking in Schroeder at the Tofte Public Water Access. Food, beverages and restroom facilities are available in Tofte.

Tofte to Grand Marais This 7.3-mile trail segment starts at the northeast end of the town of Tofte. At County Road 34, where the trail used to dead-end, a tunnel underpass beneath Highway 61 connects to a new trail segment that ends at County Road 5 . The 1.5-mile segment of completed Gitchi-Gami Trail in Grand Marais lies within the city limits. This trail segment connects to the Grand Marais Corridor Trail, a one-mile paved bike trail that travels through the heart of downtown Grand Marais.

Gooseberry State Park to Silver Bay Seven miles east of Silver Creek Cliff is the popular Gooseberry Falls State Park where the next segment of the Gitchi-Gami Trail starts just a quarter-mile east of the TH 61 Bridge. This trail segment leads to Split Rock Lighthouse State Park and the towns of Beaver Bay and Silver Bay.

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Temperance River State Park The Gitchi-Gami State Trail picks up again at the east parking lot in Schroeder and travels through Temperance River State Park, about four miles to the west of Tofte. This segment crosses the Temperance River Gorge and an ancient stream bed that is Minnesota Trails

August 17, 2019 Summer 2019 37

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DL Bike Shop

Ramsey Bicycle

218-844-5320 www.dlbikeshop.com

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829 Washington Ave., Detroit Lakes, MN 56501

6825 Hwy. 10, Ramsey, MN 55303

Downtown Bicycles

Revolution Cycle and Ski

507-786-9191 www.downtownbicyclesllc.com

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160 29th Ave. S, St. Cloud, MN 56301

Gateway Cycle

Rickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cycling and Sports Center

651-777-0188 www.gatewaycycle.com

320-235-0202 www.rickscycling.com

6028 Hwy. 36 Blvd. N, Oakdale, MN 55128

320 SW 3rd St., Willmar, MN 56201

Gear West Bike.Tri.Run.Ski

Rochester Cycling

952-473-0093 www.gearwest.com

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Jakeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bikes

Rydjor Bike Shop

320-219-7433 www.jakesbikes.com

507-433-7571 www.rydjor.com

419 N. Nokomis St., Alexandria, MN

219 N Main St., Austin, MN 55912

Maple Grove Cycling

Straight River Sports

763-420-8878 www.maplegrovecycling.com

507-451-1666 www.straightriversports.com

13950 Grove Dr., Maple Grove, MN 55311

222 Bridge Street, Owatonna, MN 55060

Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cycling & Fitness

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507-377-3704 [[[ QEVXMRWG]GPMRKERHÂ˝XRIWW GSQ

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1137 S Broadway, Albert Lea, MN 56007

219 West Main Street, Marshall, MN 56258

218-732-5971 www.northerncyclemn.com 100 Mill Road, Park Rapids, MN 56601

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38 Summer 2019

Minnesota Trails

2019

LEGEND

SOO LINE

TRAIL 10 MILES PAVED

Blanchard Dam ver

Tra il

Mis

siss

ipp

i Ri

ver

Soo

Lin

A. T.

Mississippi River Trail

Royalton

Bowlus

County Line

Paved Trail Shelter State Park P Parking Restrooms

Little Two Ri

116 First Street Southeast Little Falls, MN 56345 (320)BLACK 632-5374 & WHITE THE View Our Menu Online www.attheblacknwhite.com

an ces

6 2

o W

ist

les

e ak

3.6 7.6 11.6 13.6

g be

ai Tr

P Holdingford

a Tot

116 First Street Southeast Little Falls, MN 56345 (320) 632-5374

Le Cordon Bleu trained chefs

Find More Maps at www.MNTrails.com

Little Falls Charles A. Lindbergh State Park

Two River

Large selection of Minnesota craft beers and wines from family-owned vineyards.

State Trail will link the Central Lakes, Lake Wobegon, Paul Bunyan, Heartland and Mi Gi Zi trails and become a major connector between central and northern Minnesota’s trails. The first mile between Little Falls’ Mill Ruins Park and the state park is expected to be completetd in 2019.

Trail, is currently in the planning stages. This link will start at Blanchard Dam, run through Charles A. Lindbergh State Park, then on to Camp Ripley, and finally reach the southern terminus of the Paul Bunyan State Trail at Crow Wing State Park. When complete, the Camp Ripley/Veterans

Bla nch Hw ard y1 Da 0 m

10 miles

This scenic trail starts at the northern end of the Lake Wobegon Trail between Holdingford and Bowlus at the Stearns and Morrison County line. The quiet trail crosses a pastoral landscape with an occasional farm and wetland. Along the Trail: Bowlus’ trailhead resembles the long-gone railroad stop and has bathrooms, parking and water. Four miles farther to the northeast, the trail crosses the railroad trestle at Blanchard Dam on the Mississippi, which has a 1920s hydroelectric station still in use today. Cyclists have access to Charles A. Lindbergh State Park via the Mississippi River Trail Scenic Bikeway on the west side of the river. The paved section ends at a trailhead at Highway 10 near Royalton, but continues unpaved to Superior, WI with another paved 11-mile segment between Isle and Onamia near Mille Lacs and Father Hennepin State Parks. Connections: A few miles north of Holdingford, the Soo Line Trail connects with the Lake Wobegon Trail in Stearns County. A future trail connection to the Paul Bunyan Trail, the Camp Ripley/Veterans State

Soo Line

Ho ldin gfo Co unt rd yL Bo wlu ine s

Soo Line Trail

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

The Bowlus trailhead was built to resemble the former railroad depot . Jan Lasar photo Minnesota Trails

Summer 2019 39

Glacial Lakes

2019

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

GLACIAL LAKES

Connects to Rocori Trail

STATE TRAIL

Mid dle

Roscoe

25 MILES PAVED

For

City Bike Trail 23

Richmond

Norway Lake

City Bike Trail Lake Koronis Trail Lake Koronis

Hawick Lake Koronis Regional Park

Andrea Lake

148

New London 40

2 ow Cr

Nest Lake

State Park

6.5 12 18 16 25 36 41

25 miles

5.5 11.5 9.5 18.5 30.5 35.5

Wi llm ar

Diamond Lake

a Tot

Eagle Lake Loop

4 10

13 24 29 7

18 23

17 28 33 13.5 18.5

ist

Sib le Pay y Sta te P nes R ic vill ark hm e Co o ld S nd pri ng

Eagle Lake

Spi cer Ne wL Ha o n wic don k

Public Campground

P Parking

Spicer P

Glacial Lakes State Trail

ces

les

The area around the Glacial Lakes Trail is dotted with countless lakes shaped by retreating glaciers some 10,000 years ago. Today, communities in this popular tourist area welcome visitors who come here to recreate at the lake, on the bike or both. Along the trail: The trail starts at the Civic Center on the northern edge of Willmar. It goes northeast through beautiful farm land, prairie, and communities along the way include Spicer, New London, Hawick and Paynesville, where the trail currently terminates. A five-mile segment between Roscoe and Richmond is also paved. Many resorts campgrounds and hotels offer plenty of lodging options just off the trail. Connections: Just northeast of Willmar, take the five-mile Eagle Lake Loop Trail which circles back to the Civic Center. A city bike route also takes you to downtown Willmar. In Spicer, take a ride around Green Lake on a combination of trails and signed routes. A five-mile on-road connection takes you to Sibley State Park near New London, but plans are underway to build a standalone trail. At the eastern end of the Glacial Lakes Trail, take Paynesvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s connector route to the Lake Koronis Trail, an 18-mile route around its namesake lake. At Richmond, the Glacial Lakes Trail connects to the RoCoRi Trail, which will connect Richmond, Cold Spring and Rockville. Currently, the trail ends about a mile east of Cold Spring, but will continue on to Rockville soon and eventually reach the Lake Wobegon Trail.

Green Lake Bike Way

Green Lake

County Route

The Eagle Lake Loop makes for an interesting detour. Jan Lasar photo

U.S. Route Paved Trail Trail Bike Way Future Trail State Route

Find More Maps at

www.MNTrails.com

LEGEND

Games Lake

Sibley Park Sibley State Bike Way Park 9

Paynesville

Kandiyohi

Atwater

Willmar

PAYNESVILLE INN & SUITES Right on the Bike Trail Ride the Glacial Lakes & Lake Koronis Trail

700 Diekmann Drive Paynesville, MN 56362 320-243-4146 www.paynesvilleinn.com 40 Summer 2019

Cruising down the trail on a sunny day. Jan Lasar photo Minnesota Trails

2019

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

Glacial Lakes

A steam train, measuring 87 feet 8.25 inches, on display at the Kandiyohi County Museum in Willmar. Jan Lasar photo

Jump Right In!

360 lakes and miles of trails to explore! • • • •

Ride the Glacial Lakes State Trail Explore Sibley State Park Discover the Glacial Ridge Scenic Byway Just a short drive west of the Twin Cities

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

800.845.8747 ext. 79 www.willmarlakesarea.com Minnesota Trails

Summer 2019 41

Paul Bunyan/Heartland Map

2019

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

TRAIL MAP Heartland, Paul Bunyan, Mi-Gi-Zi and Itasca Wilderness Trail

Itasca Wilderness Sanctuary Scientific & Natural Area

Lake Bemidji State Park

P 20

Lake Bemidji

39 Lake Bemidji

Elf Lake

State Trail Paul Bunyan

1st St.

. Dr

Heartland State Trail

Lake Ave.

Grant Ave.

n ya un

Guthrie

Lake Itasca

Mi-Gi-Zi Trail

Pike Bay

k ar lP ria st du In

371

1st St. 4th St.

Cass Lake

5th St.

u Pa

il e Tra Stat yan l Bun Pau

Cass Lake

Washington Ave.

Mississippi River Trail

Irving Lake

Itasca State Park Wilderness Trail

Mill St.

Little Norway Ave.

Gould Ave.

Bemidji

Clauson Ave.

Lake Itasca 14

197

. Dr

Wilkinson

+ + +

+ + + + Trail + +State

+ + + + + + + +

+ +

+ + + +

371

+ + + + + +

+ +

+ + + +

Hackensack

+ + +

Birch

Paul Bunyan

Ten Mile Lake

Akeley

+ + +

Shingobee Connection Trail + + +

+ + +

+ +

+ + + + + + + + +

200 +

200

+ + +

+ + + + +

Park Rapids

+ + + + + + + + +

Walker Trail Loop

Stony Lake

Map p Courtesyy of

P Pleasant Lake

13.0 24.0 28.9 45.1 38.4 44.4 53.7 61.2 84.0 90.6 95.8 104.0 107.2 113.6 123.0

M inerd g St. P e Ni rri / Bax ark fi Pe ssw eld ter a Je quo n Pi kin t La ke Ba ne R s s Ha cku iver s c W ke a Be lke nsa ck r n L a ed Gu por ict Na thr te Be ry ie m La id ke ji Be m i

+ +

Nevis

+ +

Dorset

+ +

7.2

Heartland State Trail

Leech Lake

Heartland State Trail

+ +

Agency Bay

+ + + + + + + + + + + +

12.5 19.7

Traders Bay

Walker Bay

Walker

+ +

9.4 21.9 29.1

371

Long Lake

+ +

+ + +

Benedict Lake

+ +

Benedict

+ + + +

+ + +

6.3 15.7 28.2 35.4

Leech Lake

+ + +

Kabekona Bay

Kabekona Lake

North Country Hiking Trail + + + + +

Ste am Bayboat

5.3 11.6 21.0 33.5 40.7

H Di e a st r t an l a ce nd in Tr M ai ile l s

May Lake

371

+ + + + + + + +

North Country Hiking Trail

6.3 11.6 17.9 27.3 39.8 47.0 71

Garfield Lake

+ + +

+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +

Pa Do rk R Ne rset apid s A k v is W ele y a W lke r ilk 2m in i. so S. n of

Laporte

Lake George

Itasca State Park

9.0 15.9 22.1 25.4 31.4 40.7 48.2 71.0 77.6 82.8 89.0 94.2 100.6 110.0

W in

6.2

371

9.5 15.5 24.8 32.3 55.1 61.7 66.9 72.1 78.3 84.7 92.0

3.3

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6.9 13.1 16.4 22.4 31.7 39.2 62.0 68.6 73.8 80.0 85.2 91.6 98.9

9.3 18.6 26.1 48.9 55.5 60.7 66.9 73.1 78.5 85.8

9.3 16.8 39.6 46.2 51.4 57.6 62.8 69.2 76.5 7.5 30.3 36.9 42.1 48.3 53.5 59.9 67.2 22.8 29.4 34.6 40.8 46.0 52.4 59.7 6.6 11.8 18.2 23.2 29.6 36.9

l ai Tr es an il ny in M Bu e ul anc Pa ist D

5.2 11.4 16.6 23.0 30.3 6.2 11.4 17.8 25.1 5.2 11.6 18.9

LEGEND

6.0 15.3 22.8 45.6 52.2 57.4 63.6 68.8 75.2 82.5

6.4 13.7

Pine Mountain Lake

More Maps at MNTrails.com

P Backus

Norway Lake

Big Trout Lake

Pine River Upper Whitefish Lake

Paul Bunyan State Trail

Upper Hay Lake

Pequot Lakes

Kaywood Dr.

Park Rapids

Heartland St.

Rush Lake

Minnesota St.

Downtown

42 Summer 2019

Franklin Ave.

King St.

Charles St. 1st St.

34 2nd St.

Jasperwood Rd.

Bridge St.

iss ip p

Rollinger St.

Northland Arboretum

S nd hla Hig

371

Heartland Park Todd St.

210 Perch Lake

Lower Cullen Lake

Nisswa

i cen

ver

P Boom Lake

ss Mis

Crow Wing State Park

Gull Lake

371

Brainerd

30th Ave.

Pearle St.

Baxter

Excelsior Rd.

North St.

White Sand Lake

Cuyuna Lakes State Trail

c Dr.

Lawn St.

Pelican Lake

Evergreen Rd.

East River Dr.

371 Eastern Ave.

Fish Hook River

Forestview Ave.

Lower Whitefish Lake

Jenkins

dj i

St at ep

7.3

U.S. Route Paved Trail Bikeway (MRT) Horse Trail 200 State Route County Route Public Campground State Park P Parking Restroom Picnic H Hospital

Merrifield North Long Lake

Mississippi River Trail

Wilson Bay

Buffalo Lake

B371 123

210 Baxter

210

Brainerd

Crow Wing State Park

Minnesota Trails

2019 Paul Bunyan State Trail 115 miles The 115-mile, paved Paul Bunyan Trail is Minnesota’s and the country’s longest paved rail trail. It has been inducted into the Rails to Trails Conservancy’s Hall of Fame, as a “Signature Minnesota Destination”. The trail’s namesake, Paul Bunyan, is a reminder of the rich forestlands that supported a robust timber industry and are ever present on your ride through the pines

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE and you’ll see many incarnations of Paul Bunyan and his sidekick, Babe the Blue Ox, in towns along this one-of-a-kind trail. The route starts at Crow Wing State Park near Brainerd and ends at Lake Bemidji State Park near Bemidji. Including a few on-road connections, the total length is closer to 123 miles. Links with the Heartland, Shingobee and Bemidji Lake Loop Trails make this a system worth visiting over and over.

Paul Bunyan

Crow Wing State Park to Walker Riders can catch glimpses of the Mississippi River on their way through the park towards Brainerd’s Northland Arboretum. The Brainerd lakes area is a favorite with tourists seeking an Up North experience with creature comforts. Countless resorts, hotels and campgrounds cater to cyclists and are located near the trail. North of Brainerd you’ll find wetlands, gardens and the little towns of Merrifield and Nisswa. Downtown Nisswa is a bustling tourist town with many shops and restaurants to explore. Stop for a tour of the historic pioneer village and regular turtle races throughout the summer.

Bike. Eat. Shop. Repeat. mnbiketrail.com

The Paul Bunyan State Trail travels through the Chippewa National Forest. Jan Lasar photo

Minnesota Trails

Summer 2019 43

Paul Bunyan

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

The Pequot Lakes Visitor’s Center is a good place to rest and recharge. Rumor has it Paul Bunyan’s bobber now serves as the town’s water tower. Stop and take a rest in Paul Bunyan’s chair at Bobber Park. At the Pine River Information Center you can see vintage displays, including a pair of Paul Bunyan’s baby shoes, big enough to stand in. Keep an eye out for carved critters along the trail, like Colonel Cobber in Backus. This 10-foot chainsaw carving of a corncob man is a favorite picture opportunity with cyclists. Farther down the trail you can meet Paul Bunyan’s girlfriend, Lucette, in Hackensack, home to an annual chainsaw carving festival. After Hackensack, take either the hilly route through the

Chippewa National Forest to the shared section of the Heartland and Paul Bunyan Trail or the Shingobee Connector trail. Both routes connect to downtown Walker, but the Shingobee trail is shorter and easier.

Walker to Bemidji On the way to Bemidji, you will cross the Kabekona River and go through Benedict, Laporte and Guthrie in a mix of quiet, rolling farmlands, crystal clear lakes and forest lands. Bemidji, the first city on the Mississippi River, is on the south side of Lake Bemidji and flanked by the Mississippi Headwaters State Forest to the west and Lake Bemidji State Park to the north. In Bemidji, you’ll want to visit the famous statue of Paul Bunyan and his

Go mountain biking, trout ﬁshing, kayaking and paddle boarding in the heart of the Cuyuna Country Recreation Area. Easy trail access!

Cabins, tent and RV sites on beautiful Manuel Mine Lake in Crosby, MN. 23457 County Road 31 | Crosby, MN 56441 218-838-6858

For reservations visit www.redriderresort.com

2019 Blue Ox named Babe. Continue on to Lake Bemidji State Park or ride a 17-mile scenic loop around Lake Bemidji.

Connections: Traveling north on the Paul Bunyan State Trail after Hackensack, you’ll enter the Chippewa National Forest and come to a Y intersection. Go left and ride the hilly section of the Paul Bunyan Trail through the Chippewa National Forest to the intersection with the Heartland Trail west of Walker. Go right and take the easier Shingobee Trail into Walker from the south. After you cross Paul Bunyan Drive on the bridge in Bemidji, connect to the 17-mile Lake Bemidji Trail around Lake Bemidji. It doesn’t matter which way you go around the lake, the route ends at Lake Bemidji State Park. The Paul Bunyan Trail is also part of the Mississippi River Trail Scenic Bikeway, a signed route from the Mississippi Headwaters to the Gulf of Mexico History: The Paul Bunyan trail follows the original railroad line built in 1893 and abandoned by Burlington Northern in 1983. In October 1992, the first 50 miles of the Paul Bunyan Trail from Brainerd to Hackensack opened to the public and it has since more than doubled in length.

Heartland State Trail 49 miles The Heartland State Trail is another mustsee destination in the heart of Minnesota’s lake country. Numerous towns, resorts and parks provide amenities to the rider on one of Minnesota’s most visited recreational trail systems. Since this trail connects to the Paul Bunyan, Shingobee and Mi Gi Zi Trails, there’s well over one hundred miles to explore over several days.

Park Rapids to Dorset The official start of the Heartland Trail is at Park Rapids’ Heartland Park, which has shelters, restrooms, a swimming beach and a bridge across the Fish Hook River. Your six-mile journey to Dorset will take you through scenery ranging from thick woods to grasslands dotted with lakes. The popular trailhead in Dorset has access to shops and restaurants, a large parking lot, outdoor toilet, playground and shaded picnic areas. The corral on the other side of the trail is for those on horses who use the unpaved trail parallel to the paved trail.

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NORTH COUNTRY at

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44 Summer 2019

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(877) 857-8599 (218) 751-0390 www.bestwestern.com/bemidji b t Minnesota Trails

2019

BIKE TRAIL GUIDE

Heartland

Dorset to Nevis The next five miles to Nevis are quite pleasant. The trail travels through the woods with glimpses of an occasional pond. Pines and poplar trees are plentiful and birch stand out nicely from the green background. Just before you get to Nevis, enjoy views of Shallow and Belle Taine Lakes as you cross over the channel connecting the two.

Nevis to Akeley The rest area in Nevis has water and restrooms. Stop and see a statue of the World’s Largest Tiger Muskie. In Akeley, stop and sit in Paul Bunyan’s hand for a picture.

Akeley to Walker The Heartland Trail and the Paul Bunyan Trail share a trail segment from just northeast of Akeley to Walker. At a parking lot a few miles outside of Akeley, riders can turn onto the Paul Bunyan Trail and ride through the Chippewa National Forest. This eight-mile segment on paved logging roads-turned-trail has a grade of up to 8 percent. It hooks up to the Shingobee Connection Trail into Walker. Alternatively, you can continue on the shared segment and access the town of Walker that way. Just outside of town, the Paul Bunyan and Heartland Trails part ways. The Paul Bunyan Trail continues northwest to Bemidji, while the Heartland Trail continues northeast to Cass Lake.

Walker to Cass Lake North of Walker, you’ll need to ride two miles on a paved road shoulder to get from one section of the trail to the other. The trail skirts the west side of Leech Lake, then cuts through some woods and marshland and parallels Highway 371 for 10 miles to Cass Lake. At 41 miles, there is a large steel bridge, which once carried trains across Steamboat River.

Connections: In Walker, connect to the Shingobee Trail near Chase on the Lake Resort. This seven-mile combination of road routes and standalone trail crosses Shingobee Bay on the south end of Leech Lake and will take you to the Paul Bunyan Trail. Go south at this intersection toward Hackensack or west through the Chippewa National Forest and loop back to Walker via the Heartland/Paul Bunyan Trail. Near Cass Lake, where the trail intersects County Road 76, connect with the Mi-Gi-Zi Trail by riding about a half a mile east on a signed road route. Follow the 14-mile trail counterclockwise around Pike Bay’s beautiful shores and the Chippewa National Forest and arrive at a trailhead north of Pike Bay after about ten miles. From there, a signed bike route will take you back to the Heartland Trail on quiet city streets through Cass Lake. Future expansions of the Heartland include an 86-mile segment from Park Rapids west to Moorhead and a 40-mile extension north from Park Rapids to Itasca State Park. The Paul Bunyan/Heartland State Trail system is also part of the Mississippi River Trail Scenic Bikeway (MRT), a signed route from the Mississippi River headwaters to the Gulf of Mexico.

Minnesota Trails

Paul Bunyan invites you to rest in Akeley on the Heartland State Trail. Jan Lasar photo

THE SOURCE OF Pedal at your own pace

Discovery

Explore Itasca Park on two wheels

800-247-0054

Cruise the Heartland Trail

| www.parkrapids.com Summer 2019 45

Garden Island Rec. Area

Lake of the Woods

Zippel Bay Lake Bronson

Red River of the North

Rainy River

Hayes Lake

Franz Jevne

International Falls

Old Mill

Red Lake

Crookston

BWCA

Lake Vermilion /Soudan Undergound Mine

Scenic

Erskine

Lake Bemidji

2 La Salle Lake Rec. Area

Leech Lake Walker

Itasca

Glendalough Central Lakes

Lake Wobegon

Alexandria

Glacial Lakes

Big Stone Lake 12

Sibley Chippewa

Monson Lake Lac qui Parle

Willmar

59 71

212

Gooseberry Falls

Split Rock Lighthouse Gitchi Gami Trail Two Harbors

Superior Hiking Trail Lake Superior Duluth

Moose Lake

Alex Laveau Segment

MAP LEGEND PRAIRIE

Sand Stone

DECIDUOUS FOREST

Banning

CONIFEROUS FOREST TALLGRASS ASPEN PARKLAND

St. Croix River

STATE PARKS

Rum

North Branch Sunrise Prairie Hardwood Creek Grand Rounds

Lake Maria

George H. Crosby Manitou Silver Bay

St. Croix Snake

169

Minneapolis

Lake Rec. Area

Tettegouche

Hinckley

Luce Line Hutchinson Crow, Dakota LRT South Fork Greenleaf

212 Upper Sioux Agency

Father Hennepin

94 Mississippi

Crow, Glacial North Fork Lakes

Kettle

Mora

Soo Line Saint Cloud

ROCORI Paynesville

Pomme de Terre

Mille Lacs

Lake Superior

Tofte

Cloquet

Munger

Crosby

Charles A. Lindbergh

Sauk Sauk Centre Albany

St. Louis

Jay Cooke Savanna Portage Willard

Cuyuna Country Rec. Area

Soo Line Little Falls

Lake Carlos

OHV Rec. Area

Grand Portage National Monument

Grand Marais

Temperance Cascade River River

Hibbing Iron Range

Hill Annex Mine

Mille Lacs Lake Kathio

71 Long Prairie 10

Bear Head Lake

Grand Portage Judge C.R. Magney

Kekekabic Trail

Eveleth

169 Mississippi

North Country Trail

Crow Wing

Glendalough

Fergus Falls

Mesabi

Grand Rapids

Heartland Park Buffalo River Detroit Paul Rapids Lakes Bunyan North Country Pine Trail Crow 59 Wing Maplewood Otter Tail 94 Brainerd Wadena

Moorhead

McCarthy Beach

Lake Cass Winnibigoshish Lake Paul Bunyan Migizi Schoolcraft

Bemidji

Border Route Trail

53 Vermillion

Big Fork

Lower Red Lake

Red River Rec. Area

Voyageurs National Park

Little Fork

Big Bog Rec. Area

Upper Red Lake

Rainy Lake

Hugo Saint Paul

Fort

STATE RECREATIONAL AREAS

Wild River

BIKE TRAILS Interstate

ROADS

William O’Brien Marine on St. Croix Brown’s Creek Stillwater Gateway

STATE WATER TRAILS MAJOR CITIES LONG DISTANCE HIKING TRAILS

Afton Hastings

Not for Navigation Jan. 2019

Snelling Cannon Red Wing Minnesota Valley 61 Redwood Fair Frontenac Valley Cannon Ridge Rec. Area 35 Falls Lake City Goodhue Fort Camden Marshall Cannon 63 Mississippi Pioneer Flandrau Ridgely Sakatah Camden New Ulm Nerstrand Great Zumbro Cottonwood Lake Mankato Big Woods River 14 Carley Faribault 75 6SULQJÀHOG Sleepy Straight Douglas Ridge John A. Latsch Sakatah Eye Lake Shetek Whitewater Pipestone Minneopa Singing Hills 14 Watonwan National Monument Winona Owatanna Rice Lake Whitewater Pipestone Great River Bluffs Rochester St. James Des Casey Root 52 Moines Cedar Root 59 Jones River Kilen Woods Myre Blue Blazing 90 Split Rock Lanesboro Big Island Blue Earth Star Creek Shooting Mounds Beaver Creek Valley Preston Star 63 90 Blue Blue Austin Shell Albert Harmony-Preston Valley Earth Mounds Worthington Rock Lea Lake Louise Harmony Forestville / Luverne Minnesota

Mystery Cave

Casey Jones State Trail | Bike Rentals | Campground

Pedal the Prairie …Discover Di what’s h t’ #OnlyinPipestone #O l i Pii t

PipestoneMinnesota.com 46 Summer 2019

r atic Cente Family Aqu

World’s Large st Pipe

Pipestone

ument Nat’l Mon

Historic

Downtow

Minnesota Trails

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

INFORMATION CENTRAL LAKES TRAIL ASSOCIATION 320-763-0102

324 Broadway, Alexandria www.centrallakestrail.com

FERGUS FALLS CVB 112 Washington Ave. W, Fergus Falls www.visitfergusfalls.com

BIKE SHOPS

14084 Baxter Drive, STE 12, Brainerd www.visitbrainerd.com

VISIT BRAINERD

CYCLE PATH AND PADDLE

218-545-4545

FITZHARRIS BIKE & SPORT

225 West Superior Street, STE 110 www.visitduluth.com

320-251-2844

FUN

320-219-7433

9500 Spirit Mountain Place, Duluth www.spiritmt.com

419 N. Nokomis St., Alexandria www.jakesbikes.com

REVOLUTION CYCLE AND SKI

TOURIGHT BICYCLE SHOP

Duluth

St. Cloud

Southern Region

Metro Region Mankato 35

800-438-5884

SPIRIT MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK 218-628-2891 800-642-6377

320-639-2453

A quick and easy reference for planning your adventure!

We have a lot to share!

SINCLAIR LEWIS CAMPGROUND 320-352-2203

B&Bs 320-587-2453

COUNTRY BED AND BREAKFAST 651-257-4773

5 miles from Taylors Falls www.countrybedandbreakfast.us

218-326-1716

GREEN HERON B&B 2810 Meyers Bay Road, Grand Rapids www.greenheronbandb.com

316 NE 4th Street, Grand Rapids www.itascatrailsports.net

NORTHERN CYCLE

Central Region

826 Park Road, Sauk Centre www.ci.sauk-centre.mn.us

141 Main Street South, Hutchinson www.outdoormotionbikes.com

ITASCA TRAIL SPORTS

320-587-5252

LODGING/CAMPING

124 2nd Street NE, Little Falls www.tourightbicycleshop.com

OUTDOOR MOTION

800-450-7247

320-251-2453

160 29th Avenue South, St. Cloud www.revolutioncycleandski.com

VISIT DULUTH

218-829-5516

105 7th Avenue S, St. Cloud www.fitzharrismn.com

JAKE’S BIKES ALEXANDRIA

HUTCHINSON CHAMBER

218-332-5425

2 Main St., Hutchinson www.explorehutchinson.com

EASY RIDERS BICYCLE & SPORT 415 Washington Street, Brainerd www.easyridersbikes.com

Northeast Region

Bemidji

Online & In Print $250/annually

115 3rd Avenue SW, Crosby www.cyclepathpaddle.com

Minnesota Trails Directory Regions

Northwest Region

218-999-5795

www.springfieldmnchamber.org 507-723-3508 @riversidedayspringfieldminnesota

Riverside Days – June 26-30, 2019

218-732-5971

100 Mill Road, Park Rapids www.northerncyclemn.com

NORTHERN CYCLE 117 3rd Street NW, Bemidji www.northerncyclemn.com

BIKE KING

218-751-(BIKE) 2453 651-457-7766

6489 Cahill Avenue, Inver Grove Heights www.bike-king.com

CARS BIKE SHOP

763-784-6966

2661 Co Road I & Old Hwy 10, Mounds View www.CarsBikeShop.com

GATEWAY CYCLE

651-777-0188

6028 Hwy. 36 Blvd N, Oakdale www.gatewaycycle.com

PIONEER CYCLE

763-755-8871

12741 Central Ave., NE, Blaine www.pioneercycle.com

RAMSEY BICYCLE

763-323-6666

6825 Hwy. 10 NW, Ramsey www.ramseybicycles.com

STRAUSS SKATES AND BICYCLES 651-770-1344

1751 Cope Avenue E, Maplewood www.shopstrauss.com

TONKA CYCLE AND SKI

952-938-8336

TRAILHEAD CYCLING & FITNESS

763-712-0312

16 Shady Oak Road S, Hopkins www.tonkacycleandski.com

11350 Aquila Drive, Suite 505, Champlin www.trailheadcyclingandfitness.com

More information at www.mntrails.com Minnesota Trails

Summer 2019 47

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INVITING INDOOR POOL

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ADVENTURE AWAITS AT

AMERICINN

[800] 634.3444 www.wyndhamhotels.com

See more about these locations at www.wyndhamhotels.com.

From Minnesota’s rugged north shore to its southwestern prairie, the northwestern tallgrass parklands, to the Minnesota River Valley, taking good care of people in this great state of ours is what we do best. We’ve earned our stripes when it comes to genuine hospitality, and you’ll feel it the moment you walk through our doors. From a friendly smile to a free, hot American breakfast, stop in and discover true AmericInn® hospitality.

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[507] 437.7337 [218] 634.3200 [218] 879.1231 [320] 587.5515 [651] 345.5611 [218] 568.8400 [651] 385.9060 [218] 463.1045 [320] 352.2800 [218] 226.4300 [320] 253.6337 [218] 663.7899 [218] 834.3000 [218] 741.7839

Minnesota Trails Summer 2019

Articles inside

It's Just What We Do Now

Vitáme Vás Means Welcome

A Tale of Two Trails