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The farther you drive north, the more you’ll be surrounded by lakes and never-ending trails. And the Brainerd Lakes Area is no exception. Here, you are in luck when you want to escape the city to taste the come-stay-for-a-while vibe of relaxing by the lakeside in northern Minnesota.
It’s a slowed-down pace, and no better way to enjoy the great outdoors than visiting Brainerd, MN. Plus, if you’re looking for a one-tank getaway, it is easy to park your car and get around on your bike. Also, the number of lakes in the area makes finding a place to drop a line in the water easy.
More about the bike-friendly Brainerd Lakes Area
With many bike-friendly street routes to get you to and from the area hotels in the Brainerd-Baxter. You will also find the famous Paul Bunyan Trail, which takes you all the way to Bemidji, and easy access to the Mississippi River Trail is also here.
When not touring the lakes area, there are plenty more ways to make everlasting memories. You can walk around Paul Bunyan Land, head to Pirate’s Cove for some mini-golf, or take a tour of the area on a zip line at Mount Ski Gull.
The area also caters to those wanting to cool down with an indoor activity or have a more relaxing evening. You can enjoy a great meal and a view of North Long Lake or Gull Lake simultaneously with one of their lakeside restaurants. If you want more local culture, plenty of art exhibits, plays, and more are shown in the area. And don’t forget the shops, either. There are plenty of unique shops where you can find the perfect souvenir.
Biking opportunities in the bike-friendly Brainerd Lakes Area
Get your bike and get ready to pedal. Brainerd has plenty for you to do. You can take on some mountain bike trails, start the journey up Paul Bunyan Trail, and use road loops to explore the area on your own.
Paul Bunyan Trail
The Paul Bunyan trail in the Brainard Lakes Area is fun for the family.
Starting in Brainerd and winding around some of its lakes is the Paul Bunyan Trail. You’ll get a grand tour of the northern country life of Minnesota. There are three sections to the trail, or you can take the entire 120 miles to Bemidji, where you can see the famous statues of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Ox.
Cuyuna Lakes State Trail and mountain bike park
Just east of town, you’ll come upon the natural beauty of the Cuyuna Lakes area. There, you have a couple of options. There’s a 20-mile trail that takes you northeast to the Croft Mine Trailhead. This trail will take you through Minnesota’s north countryside, full of lakes prime for fishing and swimming and beautiful forests full of trees. It’s a freeing experience you won’t soon forget. You can also take on the mountain bike trail system. Each trail varies in difficulty depending on how much of a challenge you want. Obstacles include rocks, wooden paths, and more. You’ll want to come back.
Road biking opportunities galore!
There are plenty of trails and loops to help you make your way around Brainerd and the surrounding area. You can take West Baxter or Sylvan, which take you both deeper into the heart of Brainerd and to its perimeter, which also takes you by a couple of lakes. Then there’s Merrifield and Gull Dam Trail that take you north of town and around several of the area’s lakes. The South Long Lake Trail takes you southeast and gives you a little view of South Long Lake. Starting just southeast of the town, you can take Camp Jim Trail, which travels north and loops around the town. Plus, there is plenty of fun for those who won’t ride an MRT section (Mississippi River Trail).
With the popularity of electric-assist bikes (e-bikes) on the rise, many questions regarding are surfacing at HaveFunBiking, com. Many of these questions covered below emerged last year at the E-bike Challenge Minneapolis and the Eco Experience at the Minnesota State Fair. Of the ten most asked questions, one of the first usually is, what does an e-bike cost? Then it’s about the best battery/motor combination for your riding style and eight more that you can read about below.
Different types of e-bike displays in the Eco-Building at the MN State Fair
Top 10 questions asked when selecting an e-bike.
1. What does an e-bike cost?
Has the idea of touring by e-bike piqued your interest?
There are many variables when buying an electric bike, including the speed of the bike, distance, uses, weight (of the bike and battery), warranty, number of times you can charge the battery, and whether there is e-bike financing. Along with a good warranty, the quality of standard parts on the electric bike can increase the price from $2,000 to $6,000 or more. Plus, the added expense of having adequate insurance coverage for possible damage, theft, and liability.
See more information on the cost of buying an electric bike here.
2. What are the payment options?
Enjoy the Micro-Mobility experience for hauling cargo or kids.
To get an electric bike that will fit your needs over the next two to five years, find out if the bike shop or bike manufacturer (if buying online) offers no- or low-interest loans, often for six to 36 months. Some lending institutions, like Affinity Plus, offer low-interest bicycle-specific loans and let you borrow 120% of the cost of the bike to allow you to buy accessories like helmets, locks, baskets/panniers, lights, etc.
3. Does an e-bike come with a warranty, and how can I insure the bike?
Many bikes come with limited or full warranties. Typically, e-bikes may come with a 2-year warranty on parts, motors, and batteries. Some brands/companies have a 5-year, “no questions asked” comprehensive warranty. So, read the warranty before buying. A reputable e-bike company will have its warranty information on its website.
A warranty should be a part of the purchase price.
Insuring your bike is also recommended. Check if your car, renter’s, or homeowners insurance can bundle an e-bike into your policy. If not, look at an insurance company that often covers theft and collision protection, similar to automobile insurance, for your e-bike. Many companies, like AAA and Velosurance, even offer roadside assistance for bicycles and e-bikes.
For more information here on warranties and insuring an e-bike.
4. What are the different types and speeds of e-bikes?
There are two types of motors, the wheel hub type and a center crank model pictured here.
There are as many types of e-bikes or elect-assist bikes available! First, ask yourself, is your primary use for commuting, hauling cargo, off-road riding, touring, or riding in winter conditions? Once you know what your primary use will be, check out the nationally defined classifications below and your state DOT statutes for e-bikes:
Class 1: e-bikes are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, with a maximum speed of 20 mph.
Class 2: e-bikes with a maximum speed of 20 mph allow for throttle assistance.
Class 3: e-bikes are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, with a maximum speed of 28 mph. Most states consider e-bikes with a maximum speed of 20 mph “bicycles that can use all non-motorized bike routes.”
5. What’s the battery’s range and life before recycling?
A center post battery mount is standard for many electric bike models.
The general rule with a 36 volt, 10.5Ah (ampere-hours) battery should get 20 to 40 miles per charge with the average weight of rider + gear & cargo less than 200 pounds in ideal weather conditions. You’ll get fewer miles the higher the assist level you use. On low assist, you might be able to get 60 miles or more on a single charge. To maximize the life of your e-bike battery, try to charge it before it is close to empty.
Recycling your battery: Call2Recycle is helping e-bike owners recycle their batteries. On the right side of their website, please type in your zip code to get a list of places that will recycle your e-bike battery when it’s time to replace it.
For a more in-depth look at how volts x amps = watts can give you an approximate range, click here.
6. What is the weight limit of an e-bike, and what do they weigh?
There are many sizes and types of e-bikes and trikes to test ride.
Most manufacturers recommend a maximum combined weight of around 275 pounds for a rider and gear & cargo on an e-bike. Cargo bikes are meant to carry small people or big loads and can accommodate riders + gear up to 400 pounds or more. Typically, e-bikes can handle total weights more than described by manufacturers’ specs. However, it may result in reduced range or increased maintenance, which might require more repairs like wheel spokes.
Most e-bikes weigh between 30-65 pounds, and the batteries weigh anywhere from five to 15 pounds. The weight of the battery goes up as the voltage goes up, but the capacity (range of the battery) goes up, too.
For more on weight limits and restrictions, click here.
7. How do I maintain an e-bike, and what if it needs to be repaired?
Just like a regular bicycle, do the ABC’s (Air, Brake & Chain) check each time before you ride to maximize your e-bike investment. On average, you should schedule a tune-up every six months or every 1,000 miles you have ridden. To protect your warranty, check their recommendations for service, as they may differ.
If you’re buying an e-bike online, see what sort of repair service or online support the company provides, or make sure your local or favorite bike shop can fix the electrical components of the e-bike you select.
For more information on maintaining our preparing an e-bike, click here.
8. Can I ride an e-bike in the rain or snow?
Electric assist bikes work well year-round.
Electric bikes, like most standard bicycles, are water-resistant and can be used in most weather patterns. Though, you may need some accessories (like rain gear or studded tires) to ride safely. Most e-bike models also provide a high-quality, water-resistant casing to protect your battery when wet and cold. You can ride an e-bike at any temperature, but the colder it is, the more it may impact the battery’s range. Bring your battery (or the entire bike + battery) inside if you’re not riding it. Do not leave the battery on the bike if parking the e-bike outside in the winter at any time.
Click here for more information on riding an e-bike in rain or snow.
9. How do I keep an e-bike safe and secure?
To protect your e-bike investment, consider using a U-lock with a cable lock when locking your bike outside (also recommended for indoor storage). Consider having adequate insurance coverage for possible damage, theft, and liability.
For more information on securing your e-bike, click here.
10. What else should I do before purchasing?
A test ride should be part of the plan indoors or out before purchasing.
Have fun and test-ride the e-bike(s) you want to focus on. One of the essential parts of buying an electric bike is taking the model(s) you are most interested in for a test ride. Similar to buying a car, a test riding the e-bike will help you finalize your decision once you have narrowed the selection down. Visit several bicycle shops that carry the e-bike brands you are most interested in. To answer the most basic question, which e-bike do, I love the most?
So put on your bike shorts and helmet and test riding an e-bike:
Does the bike climb hills the way you need it to
Will the e-bike fit you the way you would like it to
And finally, is the quality and functionality what you expected while riding?
Now that you are back from your test ride does the e-bike you like the best fit into your budget, and does it have a warranty? An electric bike is a significant investment, whether $1,500 or $10,000. So, with a warranty, you can rest assured that your investment is well covered. For more information on scheduling a test ride, click here.
Have fun on your new e-bike. We would enjoy hearing about your experiences here at HaveFunBiking!
With an e-bike, it’s easy to bring along your faithful friend or haul cargo.
With temperature predicted to return into the 60’s, you will find the 45th Annual Salt Lake Birding Weekend on April 29th. Located in Western Minnesota, you will find this event is bike-friendly, and the perfect way to explore the bird haunts. Consider packing up the bikes and family for a spring birding weekend in the Prairie Waters Region area for some fun activities. With many birding haunts on local gravel roads, both fat and gravel-tire bikes work well to quietly approach and view the many species of birds returning to the area.
Bird watchers, looking out at several species of waterfowl on Salt Lake.
More on the Salt Lake Birding weekend
Volunteers are available to guide birders around Lac qui Parle and southern Big Stone counties over the weekend. Perfect bird viewing spots are around Salt Lake, in Big Stone Refuge, and many other lakes, wetlands, and native prairie areas. The event is free and open to all interested people – plus, no pre-registration is needed.
Each year birders will see many species of waterfowl, including Common Goldeneye and American Black Ducks. Also been spotted in past years. were Snowy and Cattle Egrets and White-faced Ibis. A number of birders located Bald Eagles and Great-horned Owls on nests in the area. Plus, birds normally found later in the year, including Black Tern, Least Flycatcher, and Black and White Warbler. The most unusual find was a Say’s Phoebe, the first time it’s been found by Salt Lake Birders here in Minnesota. Last year, over 90 birders found 143 different species of birds over the weekend. Check out this photo gallery of some of the birds you may see.
A number of species of waterfowl are out in front of the viewing platform, feeding.
It all happens on Saturday, April 29, with breakfast, at 7 a.m. at the Marietta American Legion. Located one block west of the intersection of County Road 7 and State Highway 40 (11 miles west of Madison).
When you sign up for our email updates at HaveFunBiking.com, you are also entered for a chance to win this E-bike, the all-new Magnum Navigator X. Fill out the form below to enter. Good luck!
Along with a chance to win this E-bike and a complimentary e-subscription to our blog featuring bike-friendly maps and tips on new bike destinations at HaveFunBiking.com. When planning your next adventure, we will also inform you about what’s new for bicycle-related products and gadgets.
Good luck, and share this contest for the Navigator E-bike, with your friends!
About Magnum E-bikes
The Magnum Navigator X is a beautifully designed electric bike perfect for urban riding or commuting. Step-thru frame for easy mounting and dismounting. Powerful 500W 48V power system with a fully integrated battery.
Everyone’s favorite bike media company is giving away a set of wheels
Managed by Constant Contact, the HaveFunBiking (HFB) e-database is a news media source sharing outdoor activities, mainly centered around Minnesota destinations. Since the beginning of 2003, HFB promises that our email list will never be sold or shared, and you can always opt out at any time. Plus all individuals signing up for this prize drawing for the e-bike can expect no sales appointments or calls.
The fine print
Deadline to enter: 11:59:59 PM PT, September 17, 2023 Sweepstakes drawing date: September 18, 2023 Selection Process: Grand Prize winner is selected using a computer-generated selection method to ensure that each drawing is conducted entirely at random. We will notify the winner via email and phone. The selected winner will have 24 hours to respond before a new winner is randomly selected. Number of winners: 1 Eligibility: You must be 18 years old or older to win. Approximate Retail Value: $2,199 USD
The Driftless 100 Ride Gravel Race (previously the Volga City 105) is a hilly road race through Clayton County; yes, this race is in Iowa. A short distance from the Minnesota border, you will find beautiful landscapes in one of Iowa’s best-kept secret places. If your bike knows-no-borders, and ready to get some training miles in. this gravel race is on Saturday, April 29th. Here, you will find over 10,000 feet of climbing on the 100-mile race course.
A scenic course through history.
The race is designed to showcase the Driftless region of the state and push even the savviest gravel rider to new heights. Over 90% of the race is on limestone gravel, with about 5% on pavement and 5% on level b/c roads.
Gorgeous views as you climb the hills.
It is not designed to be a mud fest, but it is April in Iowa, and it could be sloppy. With a 100, 50, and 25-mile course, the race will test your skills, a perfect event to train for this spring.
The Driftless Branding Iron awaits your completion.
An added carrot for those who finish the 100-mile course in under 8 hours, you will be awarded a Driftless branding Iron for finishing. You do have to follow the official course and receive aid only at the aid stations to earn this award.
If you can’t make it to the Driftless 100 on April 29th and want to experience the area’s scenic gravel roads, here is the Clayton Co. Gravel Touring Map to plan your next adventure. While there, enjoy a brewery, coffee shop, or winery. Or, check out events and entertainment before grabbing a bite at one of the county’s fine restaurants and cafés.
While here, expand your knowledge of local history at a museum or browse the fine art galleries. You will also find variousretail shops and boutiques to make visiting a family affair.
Visit Clayton Co. with so many gorgeous vi; it is perfect for biking, hiking, and much more.
With all the new maps in the 2023 Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide, we are constantly scouting for good eating haunts, and think you will agree. A tasty meal can add to an adventure. But locating an outstanding cafe, restaurant, or sweet shop in an unfamiliar place can be tricky, especially when hunger has already set in. So please look at the helpful Good Eating tip sheet we created for finding a memorable food experience on your next adventure. Then scroll through our list of communities with unique places to eat below from the current maps we have posted.
Patio dining is the perfect option in Minnesota’s summer months.
If you have a recommendation for a place we should check out, or you would like us to post your review at HaveFunBiking, please send them our way at HaveFunBiking.
Here are our ever-evolving good eating haunts to enjoy
Albert Lea
With scenic bike routes around the fingers of Fountain Lakes and the Blazing Star State Trail, out to Myre Big-Island State Park. An evening downtown at Crescendo is a great dining experience, especially with their piano music setting the ambiance.
With many bike-friendly roads, the 8-mile Scenic Circuit Loop, and the Central Lakes Trail running through the community, plus the off-road fun in the County Parks of Lake Brophy and Kensington Runestone, upon your return, you will be ready for a wide variety of dining options.
With many bike-friendly roads and trails throughout the community and off-road fun in Minnesota Valley River bottoms, experience some culinary delights in the south metro here.
With many bike-friendly roads, the 12-mile Scenic Circuit Loop, and the paved Paul Bunyan Trail running through the community, plus the off-road fun French Rapids Park, upon your return, you will be ready for a wide variety of dining options.
With many trails throughout the community, scenic bike loops, and off-road fun in Ravine Regional Park to pedal, check out the many eating establishments that will make your taste buds dance.
With many bike-friendly road routes and the pave Cuyuna Trail now connecting Ironton, Crosby, Deerwood, and several Cuyuna Moutain Bike trailheads, you will find plenty after your ride of places to challenge your taste buds when visiting.
Enjoy miles of scenic riding with the 14-mile Scenic Circuit Loop that connects to the Nine-mile Creek and Minneapolis trail system for more riding options. Then stop at one of the many eating establishments to satisfy your appetite.
Regardless, if you are riding the trails that connect to the 12-mile Scenic Circuit Loop or off-road trails out at River Bend Nature Center, you will find eating establishments to satisfy your tastes.
With the Mississippi River Trail passing through the city, connecting to the Mesabi Trail and several off-road parks is easy. After your ride, enjoy several fun places to eat and drink while visiting.
Enjoy miles of scenic riding with the 10-mile Scenic Circuit Loop here that connects to the Mississippi River Trail (MRT) for more riding options. Then stop at one of the many eating establishments to refuel.
With many trails throughout the community, scenic bike loops, and off-road fun in Stohls Lake Park, find several tasty options to enjoy after your ride.
Set in the rolling Mississippi River Valley, the area here offers miles of paved trails connecting to the Twin City Metro trail-grid and off-road riding to work up an appetite while visiting,
With many paved trails around the lakes and parallel to many Dakota County roads throughout the community and off-road fun at West Lake Marion Mountain Bike Park, you will work up an appetite to add to your experience visiting here.
After riding the Minneopa, Red Jacket, or Sakatah paved trail systems here or the off-road mountain bike parks, check out the current Free Press of Fine Dining.
With many trails throughout the community, scenic bike loops, and off-road fun in Elm Creek Park Reserve, you will find plenty of riding opportunities and places to expand your taste buds when visiting.
With many towns along the Mesabi Trail. When not riding the paved trail or one of the popular bike parks at Giants Ridge or Red Head mountain, be prepared for various tastes. Expect to be surprised…and pleased!
Here are some eating experiences when visiting communities on the Mesabi Iron Range.
Bon Appetit!
Minneapolis Northwest
With the rich diversity of Brooklyn Center and Brooklyn Park, the many trails here will take your taste buds on a flavor tour of the world without leaving the community,
With many trails throughout the community, scenic bike loops up to Clintonton Falls, and off-road fun in Kaplan’s Woods, enjoy Foremost Brewpub and flatbreads after a day of riding.
Enjoy miles of scenic riding with the 9-mile Scenic Circuit Loop that connects to the Nine-mile Creek and Minneapolis trail system for more riding options. Then stop at one of the many eating establishments here to refuel. New this year and worth checking out is Kataki Sushi & Ramen.
With many trails throughout the community that connect to the 10-mile Scenic Circuit Loop and the Xcel Energy Mountain Bike Park at Quarry Lake Park. You are sure to work up an appetite while visiting.
Good eating along the trail might be a box lunch from the local deli.
Waconia
With a bike-friendly route around Lake Waconia, many paved trails running parallel along county roads, and the off-road fun at Carver Park Reserve, you will work up an appetite to add to your experience visiting here.
Enjoy miles of scenic riding with the 8-mile Scenic Circuit Loop that connects to the Glacial Lakes State Trail for more riding options. Then stop at one of the many eating establishments to satisfy your appetite.
Now in our 14th year of publishing the Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide, tied to all the information at HaveFunBiking.com, we hope you find all the bike-friendly maps helpful in planning your next adventure. To help you select your next fun outing with family and friends, we have added some suggested route options to most of the maps, along with helpful tips and interesting places to get some refreshments. So bookmark the 2023 Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide so it’s ready and at your fingertips for that next bike adventure.
The handy 2023 MN Bike/Hike Guide
Where to find a printed copy of the MN Bike/Hike Guide?
As in the past, the Minnesota guides will continue to be available at the Minnesota Tourism Welcome Centers and many local libraries if you would like a print copy. These handy pocket-size guides are perfect for paging -through, copying a map, or jotting down a few notes when planning your #NextBikeAdventure.
Please help us by sharing your comments on this year’s Bike/Hike Guides
As we continue to update the guide, we would like to hear from you. What do you like about the MN Guide, and how can it be better, so we can continue to add more helpful information in future editions? Please review this digital edition of the guides and give us your comments at [email protected] – Thanks!
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Good luck, have fun and share your next adventure at HaveFunBiking!
As the e-transportation industry continues to develop, we occasionally list bicycle inventory closeouts that you will find here next to our product review items. So please bookmark this page and check back often as we refresh this page with new items and deals to enjoy that next adventure.
With the closing of PowerBikes.com here in the Twin Cities, here is your chance to get a new e-bike at a near-wholesale price. The inventory listed below is being auctioned off with a huge selection of bike accessories, e-bike certified helmets, locks, bags, cell phone mounts, bags, and every imaginable bike part & tool.
This 2022 Gocycle G4 is one of many e-bikes on the action.
You can get the best deal on a new electric assist bike before the spring riding season begins. Select from new in-the-box, new pre-prepped, demo, and used e-bikes. Check the full list of e-bikes here.
New product reviews on items for that next outdoor adventure
As tree buds appear along the forested trails, finally shedding their winter coat, here is a list of new products we thought you might find interesting for that next outdoor adventure. New products for lovers of bikes.
The Thermacell E55 offers a 20 ft. radius of protection from mosquitos.
Over my 25 years in the cycling industry, I have found that the excitement of a new bike only increases as you get older. Here are a few cycles and gear to check out at your favorite bike shop. Click here to see our full review of fun products for that next bike adventure, and check back often.
Biking along the Mississippi River Trail (MRT) is just one of the many fun opportunities cyclists can enjoy when visiting Hastings, MN. As this historic river town expands its bicycle infrastructure, I had to return to Hastings last fall to check out the completed 10-mile trail loop.
Dubbed the “Scenic Circuit,” cyclists of all ages and abilities find this scenic trail loop along the Vermilion and Mississippi rivers breathtaking. Cyclists will discover many unique points of interest in the city parks and trails along this dual river trail system. For those who would like to add a few extra miles to this Scenic Circuit Loop, it’s easy following the MRT to Schaar’s Bluff and beyond. See the Hastings HaveFunBiking map for more options.
Starting in Historic Hastings
At the old mill ruins, high-quality flour was produced from 1857 to 1894 under the name “Belle of Hastings.”
Starting our ride in the historic Hastings Downtown Area, we found plenty of parking options when arriving. We used the city parking lot, under the Highway 61 bridge, as a gathering place to start our ride. It’s a short walk, after you get back, to walk along 2nd Street (the city’s downtown main street) for a snack or meal. We choose to ride the Scenic Circuit counter-clockwise for this review, leaving from Levee Park on the MRT.
Following the Mississippi River Trail out of Hastings
This metal sculpture was made from materials collected from a river clean-up just west of downtown Hastings.
In the first few miles of riding the trail through Jaycee Park, we enjoyed an aerial show of several Bald Eagles. Then the art along the river was also interesting. Several markers explain the river’s history, and one marker explains the river clean-up project several years prior. The giant dragonfly (above) was made from different metals dredged from the river under the Clean Water Act. Further along the Scenic Circuit, the trail passes by U.S. Lock and Dam 2. Here it’s always fun to stop and watch boats of all sizes move through the locks from the viewing platform.
The trail along the backwater is a perfect place to view wildlife and other bird species that frequents the area.
Before leaving the river bottom, another highlight was pedaling along the picturesque causeway before climbing out from the river’s bank. At the top, for those who would like to add a few more miles, Schaar’s Bluff and the new trail out to Dakota County’s Spring Lake Park is an option (See below for more miles to Schaar’s Bluff and Spring Lake Park). To continue along on the 10-mile Scenic Circuit, riders should take a left, crossing Nininger Road, and then follow the city trail south, down Pleasant Drive.
From the Mississippi to the Vermilion River
Now on the western side of Hastings, the Scenic Circuit jogs a little further west along 4th Street, from Pleasant Drive – then heads south on the wide paved shoulder of General Sieben Drive. After crossing Highway 55, those who need a sweet treat will find Culvers on the corner. Continuing south, the route turns east onto River Shore Drive. Then, in about an eighth-mile, watch for the trail to cross the road and head north to Northridge Drive. There you should take a right and continue east on the Circuit Loop.
These cyclists enjoyed a perfect day to ride Hastings ‘Scenic Circuit’.
At Pleasant Drive, take a right; the trail follows the road south to the Vermilion River. On the east side, pick up the trail that flows with the river back into Hastings after crossing the bridge. You will soon discover why this section of the trail is such a popular part of the MRT.
Along the Vermilion River
Biking and rollerblading, the “Scenic Circuit is perfect for all ages and skill levels.
As the Vermilion River flows swiftly to the east, the trail along this scenic stretch of river offers nature lovers a peaceful ride through serenity. From here, cyclists and walkers alike will enjoy the two underpasses, one on County Road 46/47 and the second one at U.S. 61, to stay away from traffic. After passing under Highway 61, the Scenic Circuit is now entering Vermilion Falls Park.
Vermilion Park
As you cross over the Vermilion River here, you will notice all the padlocks attached to the railing.
Riding into the park, at the first trail intersection, you can park your bike and walk about 100 feet to view Vermilion Falls. Continuing east and taking a left at the trail’s “T,” you are now on the bridge where it’s easy to view the falls overhead as it cascades towards the Mississippi River. You will also notice all the padlocks on the bridge’s railing.
No one knows exactly when, why, or who started this European trend in Hastings. But this romantic ritual has become very popular, with hundreds of locks attached to the fence on the old railroad bridge that is now a part of the Scenic Circuit trail. The practice invites lovers to hang a padlock on the bridge and toss the key into the water below. For now, the city parks department finds the trend touching and plans to leave the public love notes (locks) alone as a wall of art.
Another historic option to check out is Old Mill Park, about an eighth mile ahead. Here is another opportunity to park your bike and walk down to the old mill ruins and maybe hike one of the many trails along the Vermilion River.
The trail crosses the railroad tracks from Mill Park and continues north towards Downtown Hastings. At the next split in the trail, riders should take a right and then follow the MRT signs back to the downtown area for some fun.
Enjoy Historic Downtown after your ride.
Over the last few years, downtown Hastings has been going through what many call a “Riverfront Renaissance.” With events scheduled throughout the spring, summer, and fall, the historic main street atmosphere is the perfect place to end your ride. Stop to shop, dine or stroll along the Mississippi River Trail next to the Scenic Circuit Loo. After our ride, we found several options for cool refreshments and dinner downtown. You can find more options in our At-A-Glance article.
If you didn’t bring your bike along, Hastings has a bike-share program. The Zagster bike station is located under the bridge on 2nd Street, and you will need a credit card to activate the locking system to the cycle you wish to ride,
More miles to Schaar’s Bluff and Spring Lake Park.
Returning to Hastings from Schaar’s Bluff, it’s approximately 6 miles.
The trail loop also connects to several neighborhood parks and the Mississippi River Regional Trail. Known by many as the “hidden jewel” of the Upper Mississippi River Valley, view some spectacular scenery along the way as you pedal along. Riding out to Schaar’s Bluff adds around 12 miles.
This newly completed trail offers cyclists an occasional view of the river, two new bridges that cross deep ravines, and prairie flowers that border limestone bluffs.
Whatever your riding style, downhill, cross-country, or a leisurely ride after work, you’ll find plenty of mountain biking trails to choose from. Minnesota offers many off-road trails to shred. No matter your skill level, you will find plenty of glaciated ridges: lush forests, and open prairies to explore. Plan your next outdoor adventures with our list of mountain bike trails in Minnesota. You will find many fun opportunities year-round, as many of these trails are open for fat biking throughout winter. Thanks to the Minnesota Off-Road Cyclist (MORC) and several other community organizations who maintain these trails.
Fat bike fun on Minnesota’s Mountain Bike Trails
From lift-served downhill and legendary red dirt trails of the North to the open-air feel of the prairies further south, you’ll find outstanding mountain bike trails across Minnesota.
Minnesota mountain bike trails in the North
You will find many trail options when visiting Northern Minnesota.
In Northern Minnesota’s vast forests, find an extensive network of rugged singletrack and easy-to-moderate mountain bike trails to enjoy. Explore the following list, with many state, regional, and city parks that maintain off-road trails to provide riders at every skill level with a fun experience. Whether seeking a serene roll or a challenging thrill, Minnesota has no shortage of mountain bike trails to explore. For that next Northern Minnesota adventure you want to plan, click here for over 25 trail systems to shred.
Minnesota’s Central Region
Enjoy the mix of prairie and forested trails regardless of your skill level.
In Minnesota’s heartland, find an extensive network of rugged singletrack and easy-to-moderate mountain bike trails to enjoy. Explore the following list, with many state, regional, and city parks that maintain off-road trails to provide riders at every skill level with a fun experience. Whether seeking a serene roll or a challenging thrill, Minnesota has no shortage of mountain bike trails to explore. For that next Central Minnesota adventure you want to plan, click here for over 15 trail systems to shred.
Minnesota’s Twin Cities Metro Area
The TC Trails here are perfect for the beginner and the serious rider.
In the Twin Cities, mountain bikers will find trails to enjoy year-round. No matter your skill level, you will find the singletracks trails flowing in the summer. Then in the winter months, they are groomed for fat biking. Explore the following list, with many regional and city parks that maintain off-road trails to provide riders at every skill level with a fun experience. Whether seeking a serene roll or a challenging thrill, Minneapolis-St has no shortage of mountain bike trails. Paul Area. For the next mountain bike adventure you want to plan in the Twin Cities Metro, click here for over 15 trail systems to shred.
Minnesota’s South
From the driftless area to the open prairies, Southern Minnesota awaits your arrival.
In Southern Minnesota’s open prairies, meandering rivers, and stunning bluffs, find an extensive network of rugged singletrack and easy-to-moderate mountain bike trails to enjoy. Explore the following list, with many state, regional, and city parks that maintain off-road trails to provide riders at every skill level with a fun experience. Whether seeking a serene roll or a challenging thrill, Minnesota has no shortage of mountain bike trails to explore. For the next mountain bike adventure you want to plan in the Twin Cities Metro, click here for over 15 trail systems to shred.
