Bike Trail Travels: Minnesota

Minnesota has earned a reputation as one of the most bike-friendly states in the country, and for good reason. With over 4,000 miles of paved bike routes, more than a thousand miles of natural surface trails, and a mountain biking scene that rivals destinations with actual mountains, the Land of 10,000 Lakes offers something for every type of rider. From the famous red dirt of the Iron Range to scenic routes along Lake Superior, Minnesota delivers trail experiences you simply won't find anywhere else.

This guide covers everything you need to know about biking in Minnesota, from the best paved trails for casual riders to world-class mountain biking destinations.

Minnesota's rail-trail conversions are legendary among cyclists. These former railroad corridors offer smooth, flat riding through beautiful scenery, making them perfect for riders of all skill levels. Organizations like Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists (MORC) have helped develop and maintain many of the state's biking trails, contributing to an ever-growing network of bicycle trail options.

At 123 miles, the Paul Bunyan Trail is the longest paved bike trail in Minnesota. This mile trail connects Crow Wing State Park to Lake Bemidji State Park, passing through charming towns like Nisswa, Pequot Lakes, Pine River, Hackensack, Walker, and Bemidji. The trail corridor winds through postcard-perfect lakes, sprawling meadows, and secluded woods with tall canopies. Trail users appreciate the well-maintained surface and the variety of services available in the towns along the route. Future extensions will connect the Paul Bunyan with the Blue Ox Trail to create a 210-mile trail system.

The Mesabi Trail stretches over 150 miles of trail through the Iron Range, connecting 28 mining communities between Grand Rapids and the Boundary Waters. Named the Best Rural Bike Trail in Minnesota in 2013, this trail offers a unique landscape of rolling hills, old iron ore mines now filled with emerald green water, and dense forest. The trail passes through communities rich in mining and logging history, where you can stop for local cuisine like pasties, sarma, or potica. A Wheel Pass is required on some sections, and shuttles and bike rentals are readily available. Be sure to grab a trail map before you go, as the route passes through multiple towns via county road connections.

The Root River State Trail winds 42 miles through southeastern Minnesota's Driftless Region, a unique place untouched by glaciers during the last ice age. The result is dramatic 300-foot limestone bluffs, rushing rivers, and rolling terrain that feels unlike anywhere else in the state. The bicycle trail connects with the Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail for an additional 18 miles, bringing the total system to 60 miles of trail. Towns like Lanesboro, Rushford, Peterson, and Whalan offer charming stops for food and rest. Don't miss the Aroma Pie Shop in Whalan or Mystery Cave in Preston.

The Gitchi-Gami State Trail (named after the Ojibwa word for "Big Sea" or "Huge Water") hugs the North Shore of Lake Superior between Two Harbors and Grand Marais. Currently at about 36 miles across five segments, this trail delivers some of the most stunning scenery in the state. You'll ride through birch and aspen forests, cross cascading rivers and waterfalls, and enjoy incredible vistas of Lake Superior. The trail corridor passes through protected natural areas and state parks, offering wildlife viewing opportunities along the way.

The longest segment runs 17.6 miles from Gooseberry Falls State Park to Silver Bay, featuring views of Split Rock Lighthouse and the rugged coastline. No wheel pass is required, though parking in state parks requires a permit.

Minnesota may not have towering peaks, but its mountain bike trails have earned recognition across the country. The state's trail builders have transformed old mining lands, river valleys, and urban parks into world-class riding destinations.

Cuyuna is the crown jewel of Minnesota mountain biking. Located about two hours north of Minneapolis near Crosby and Ironton, this former iron mining area has been transformed into an IMBA Silver Level Ride Center with over 50 miles of flowing, purpose-built singletrack. The distinctive red dirt trails wind through the boreal forest, past turquoise mine lakes, and over terrain ranging from beginner-friendly to expert-only.

The trail system covers nearly 800 acres and offers something for everyone. About 80% of the biking trails are family-friendly, with clear difficulty ratings that help riders stay within their comfort zone. Popular trails include Bobsled, a berm-filled descent that earns its name, and the easier Galloping Goose loop trail for those building their skills. The town of Crosby has embraced the mountain biking community, with bike-friendly businesses like Red Raven Bike Shop & Cafe and Cuyuna Brewing Co.

• Spirit Mountain (Duluth): Minnesota's only lift-served mountain biking, with sweeping views of Lake Superior

• Theodore Wirth Park (Minneapolis): Urban singletrack with tight tree clearances and frequent switchbacks

• Lebanon Hills (Eagan): Nearly 12 miles of one-way singletrack with world-class facilities

• Redhead Mountain Bike Park (Chisholm): Newer trail system carved from abandoned mine pits on the Iron Range

Minneapolis consistently ranks among the top cycling cities in the country, and Saint Paul isn't far behind. The region offers an impressive network of bike lanes, regional trails, and urban park systems that make two-wheeled transportation both practical and enjoyable. The Minnesota River Valley also offers scenic bike routes just outside the metro area.

The Grand Rounds connects more than 50 miles of off-street urban trails through Minneapolis, passing through seven segments, including the Downtown Riverfront, Mississippi River, Chain of Lakes, Theodore Wirth Park, and Minnehaha Falls. This loop trail system is one of the longest continuous urban parkway networks in the country.

This 5.5-mile trail runs along a former railroad corridor in south Minneapolis with three lanes, lighting at night, and year-round plowing. It connects the Chain of Lakes to the Mississippi River, making it perfect for commuters and recreational riders alike.

Minnesota has embraced fat tire biking like few other places. When snow covers the trails, fat bikes with their oversized tires (typically 3.8 to 5+ inches wide) provide traction and flotation on packed snow. It's become one of the most popular winter trail activities in the state.

Cuyuna offers 25+ miles of groomed winter trails specifically for fat biking. Giants Ridge in Biwabik provides over 60 kilometers of groomed trails plus the rare opportunity for lift-served downhill fat biking. Split Rock Lighthouse State Park maintains over 8 miles of groomed trails for fat bikers and snowshoers, offering scenic Lake Superior views even in the winter months.

The best time for biking in Minnesota runs from mid-March through mid-October, though trail conditions vary by region and elevation. Northern trails near the Boundary Waters may have shorter seasons, while Twin Cities trails are rideable earlier in spring. Many long-distance trails offer camping, cabin rentals, and services in towns along the route, making multi-day trips easy to plan.

• The Mesabi Trail requires a wheel pass for some sections

• State park parking lots require a daily or annual vehicle permit

• Most paved state trails have no fee requirement

For current trail conditions, check the Minnesota DNR website or individual trail association pages. Mountain bike trails often close immediately after rain to prevent damage, so always check before heading out. Many trail systems use social media to post real-time updates.

With so many incredible trail options across Minnesota, the biggest challenge might be choosing where to ride first. From the 123-mile Paul Bunyan Trail to the red dirt singletrack of Cuyuna, from Lake Superior's stunning shoreline to the limestone bluffs of the Driftless Region, Minnesota truly delivers for cyclists of every type.

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