Tag Archives: fat biking

Bike Pic Oct 10, wheelie Wednesday may help you into your sweet spot

As the far north section of Minnesota gets its first measurable snowfall. In this bike pic, here in Bloomington MN, the roads are still a little wet, but doable for wheelie Wednesday. So take a chance, if life were a fat bike trail a wheelie could help smooth out your day-to-day ride or aid you in dropping into your sweet spot.

This photo was taken in January at Race #1, at a ‘Get Phat with Pat‘ event down in the Minnesota River Bottoms, in Bloomington.

Get into the zone and plan your next bike outing with family and friends at one of Minnesota’s HaveFunBiking Destinations. View all the fun ideas and bike destinations in the new HaveFunBiking Guide.

Thanks for viewing our ‘Wheelie Wednesday’ Pic of the Day

Now rolling into our 11th year as a bike tourism media, our goal is to continue to encourage more people to bike and have fun. While highlighting all the unforgettable places for you to ride. As we continue to showcase more destinations you can have fun at we hope the photos we shoot are worth a grin. As you scroll through the information and stories we have posted, enjoy!

Do you have a fun bicycle related photo of yourself or someone you may know that we should post? If so, please send your picture(s) to: [email protected]. Include a brief caption (for each), of who is in the photo (if you know?) and where the picture was taken. Photo(s) should be a minimum of 1,000 pixels wide or larger, to be considered. If we do use your photo, you will receive photo credit and acknowledgment on Facebook and Instagram.

As we continues to encourage more people to bike, please view our Destination section at HaveFunBiking.com for your next bike adventure – Also, check out the latest Bike Guide, mobile friendly as we enter into our 9th year of producing print and digital guides.

So bookmark HaveFunBiking.com and find your next adventure. Please share all our pic’s with your friends and don’t forget to smile. We may be around the next corner with a HFB camera ready to document your next move while you are riding and having fun. Capturing you in one of our next ‘Pic of the Day’ posts.

Have a great day and a memorable new year ahead!

Bike Silver Bay on the North Shore as the fall colors begin to peak

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by Russ Lowthian, HaveFunBiking.com

Bike Silver Bay, there is still time to make some outdoor memories with fall color season soon approaching. With your two-wheel stud, make your way into northeastern Minnesota Arrowhead region and soon you will find yourself enjoying the fall colors on the North Shore. While here you can spend all the time in the world at its various parks, like Splitrock Lighthouse or Tettegouche State Park or while enjoying the Gitchi-Gami State Trail.

Family fun riding along the Gitchi Gami Trail with Lake Superior at your side.

It has plenty of areas for the mountain bike too. to explore and has the Superior Hiking Trail runs through, so make sure you’re ready for plenty of Instagram worthy selfie opportunities. There’s even room for hiking the Superior Hiking Trail, that runs through the area. See the HaveFunBiking Silver Bay Map from the Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide, for more details.

More About the Bike Silver Bay Area

Resting along the shore of the beloved Lake Superior, get a great view of the lake as you explore the area with your bike or on foot.

The chances to enjoy nature are many, but sometimes you need a break. So when it comes time to take-five indoors you’re in luck. There are plenty of shops to browse and diners to replenish the calories you’ve burned out on the trail. If you’re looking for an artistic experience, the Lake Superior Community Theater always has a production ready for your enjoyment.

Biking Opportunities in the friendly Bike Silver Bay Area

There’s nothing better than riding your bike and enjoying the fresh air with a breeze of the lake. The Silver Bay area has plenty of trails and loops ready for you. You’ll have plenty of scenic views and fun challenges mountain biking here.

In Tettegouche State Park

The northeastern tip borders Lake Superior. And if you’re looking for a scenic adventure through some of Northern Minnesota’s finest nature trails. Mountain bikers can use the 1.5-mile road that also doubles as the service road into the Tettegouche camp. Bikers can also use the 6.5 miles of ATV trails located in and outside the park.

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

The fat bike trails loops in Split Rock Lighthouse State are fun.

The park trails here offer a connection to the 10 miles from the park up to Silver Bay on the Gitchi-Gami State Trail. For the mountain bikers, there are also plenty of trails such as the Merrill Lodging Trail and the Day Hill Trail for bikers to enjoy. They can also use the Corundum Mine Trail and there are trails for fat bikers as well.

Gooseberry Falls State Park

About 15 miles south on the Gitchi-Gami State Trail beautiful Gooseberry Falls State Park offers several opportunities for bikers to hit the trails. Mountain bikers will have plenty of trails to travel, and many areas connect to each other providing several loop opportunities.

Gitchi Gami State Trail

Riding along Lake Superior on the Gitchi Gami Trail.

This trail starts in Two Harbors and travels all the way to Grand Marais. While parts of the trail are under construction, or yet to be started, much of it follows the coast of Lake Superior. You’ll get to travel through Gooseberry Falls State Park, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, Tettegouche State Park, and more.

Mountain Biking

If you’re looking for than winding paths and hills out of your bike adventure, give these more challenging trails a try. The North Star State Trail takes you from Duluth all the way through town and up to Grand Marais. Then there’s the Moose Walk Trail that takes you along the Sawtooth Mountains. It also connects to the Red Dot Trail, which takes you on a hilly ride through countless spruce pine.

Where to stay in Silver Bay and thing to do when not biking

At the Heart of the Northshore, you will find everything you need for a couple night stay or a long vacation in northern Minnesota. Located an “incredibly scenic” hour north of Duluth, Minnesota, come and experience the great outdoors with nature activities, fun family attractions, area tours, scenic state parks, hiking and biking trails and more. Stay in luxurious accommodations at one of our resorts, cabins or hotels where you will find comfortable, affordable lodging for every budget. See the waves and observe the ships on Lake Superior, smell the forests, watch the birds and wildlife or enjoy the Superior Hiking Trail. Bike Silver Bay is an experience you will not soon forget!

Bike Pic Sept 13, a perfect day to test your fat bike legs

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This bike pic Thursday is a perfect day to get out on the mountain bike trail, burn some calories while testing your fat bike legs as the humidity takes a slight hike.

What better way to continue your 2018 riding season fun and to plan your #NextBikeAdventure. View all the great ideas and bike destinations in the latest Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide. Then plan your next outing with family and friends in one of the HaveFunBiking Destinations.

Thanks for Viewing Our ‘Fat Bike Legs’ Bike Pic

We are now rolling into our 10th year as a bike tourism media. As we pedal forward our goal is to continue to encourage more people to bike and have fun while we highlight all the unforgettable places for you to ride. As we continue to showcase more places to have fun, we hope the photos we shoot are worth a grin. Enjoy the information and stories we have posted as you scroll through.

Do you have a fun bicycle related photo of yourself or someone you may know that we should post? If so, please send your picture(s) to: [email protected]. Include a brief caption (for each) of who is in the photo (if you know) and where the picture was taken. Photo(s) should be a minimum of 1,000 pixels wide or larger to be considered. If we use your photo, you will receive photo credit and acknowledgment on Facebook and Instagram.

As we continue to encourage more people to bike, please view our Destination section at HaveFunBiking.com for your #NextBikeAdventure – Also, check out the MN Bike Guide, now mobile friendly, as we enter into our 8th year of producing this hand information booklet full of maps.

Remember, bookmark HaveFunBiking.com on your cell phone and find your next adventure at your fingertips! Please share our pics with your friends and don’t forget to smile. We may be around the corner with one of our cameras ready to document your next cameo appearance while you are riding and having fun. You could be in one of our next Pics of the Day.

Have a great day!

Minnesota River bottoms, Bloomington’s natural trail network

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John Brown, HaveFunBiking.com

It was the summer of 1849, the first Bloomington Ferry began operations next to the Minnesota River bottoms. It carried people from the Bloomington shores to Shakopee. Exactly 40 years later, the first Bloomington Ferry Bridge was opened. Following that, versions of that bridge carried people, carriages, and motorists across the river for over 100 years. The current pedestrian bridge is a beautiful arch, spanning the Minnesota River and connecting Bloomigton to the Highway 101 trail to Shakopee. The Bridge is also the starting point for The Minnesota River Bottoms trail. The River Bottoms are some of the metro areas last natural trails, popular for mountain biking, hiking, fishing and bird watching.

Bikes on the Bloomington Ferry Bridge, near the trail head of the Minnesota River Bottoms

What are the Minnesota river bottoms

The Minnesota River bottoms are worn in by the riders, hikers, and runners who frequent them

The “River Bottoms” to locals, is a trail network stretching from the south west corner of Bloomington, all the way to the trails of Fort Snelling State Park. These trails are worn in by the riders and runners who frequent them. While under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service, they are not maintained by any government entity. Due to the fact that the “River Bottoms” aren’t maintained by any organization, the trails often take on a “path of least resistance” or direction. It is not uncommon for new trails to spring up after heavy rains and high river flooding. While riding, expect exclusively dirt trails with some log crossings, sand sections, and occasional overgrowth. Warning, pay particular attention for the Urtica Dioica plants, or stinging nettles, growing on infrequently used trails from June through August.

Wildlife of the Minnesota River Bottoms

Bikers, birdwatchers and hikers can enjoy the wildlife sightings along the banks of the Minnesota River.

The River Bottoms are great for all types of recreation. It’s not uncommon to see hikers, bird watchers and people fishing along the banks of the Minnesota river. I have enjoyed sharing with my son the sights of Bald eagles and Beavers who make the watershed their home. Additionally, being a natural area, the River Bottoms are home to countless animals.

What to expect

There are a few popular entrances to the River Bottom trail, Lyndale Ave, Crest Ave, and Old Cedar Ave. These entrances offer ample parking and a clear trailhead. Once you start down the trail you will see that nothing is paved but worn-in enough to be firm under your tires. While a mountain bike is best for these trails, wider tires on Hybrids and adventure bikes navigate well. If you need to cross a stream, there are bridges or a ferry (at 9-mile creek) to get you around. Because the River Bottoms are so smooth, they are an ideal place to take kids mountain biking.

The Minnesota River bottoms are worn in by the riders, hikers, and runners who frequent them

You will find runners who frequent the natural settings of the Minnesota River bottoms

When to ride

Spring, summer, winter or fall the Minnesota River bottoms is a natural haven for cyclists

The best part of the River Bottoms is that it is one of the first places to dry out each spring. It is also one of the first places to freeze when winter rolls through. Avoid this trail in early spring as the trails thaw and after a strong rain. Other than that, these trails are sandy enough to drain quickly. One of the best things about the river bottoms is riding fatbikes. There in the winter, in fact, fat bikes can trace their development directly to the river bottom. When the snow falls, the river bottoms are a the perfect mixture of flat trail, bermed turns, and accessibility to create a near-perfect winter track.

Winters can get exciting in the Minnesota River bottoms with Penn Cycles Get Fat with Phat fat bike races in January.

We in the twin cities are lucky to have a place like the river bottoms to ride. The fact that it is left free to change and natural is unique in a metro area. To that point, there are user groups that are working against the eventual possibility of developing the river bottom area. Whatever your opinion is on development, get into the wilds of the River Bottoms and enjoy this local treasure.

A true north biking experience with family and friends in Roseau

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by Russ Lowthian, HaveFunBiking.com

If you have three days or more free and are looking for a true north biking experience in Minnesota, consider Roseau. A few miles from the Canadian border on a recent visit I found this area full of fun offering many off road bicycling opportunities.

An outdoor bicycle paradise

Perfect for the whole family, the city of Roseau offers a paved bike trail, along with a number of quite street routes. Making it easily get around, to and from your hotel, by bike.

The quite city streets makes it easy and safe to connect to the trail, to go downtown.

On the eastern edge of the city I found Mount Roseau. With no forest vegetation, it made it easy to see the countryside as I rode up and down the trails of this mountain bike park. At the top the view was worth stopping for. But, what was really exciting was learning about the areas remote logging roads and trails in Beltrami Island State Forest. For the gravel, fat and mountain bike riders, this is a haven if you are craving a true north experience.

Roseau a true north biking experience

Minnesota’s North Star City, the community is located in an environmental transition area of the state where the forest gives way to the prairies of the Red River Valley. Roseau is only 13-mile south of the Canadian Border and 27-mile to Lake of the Woods, by auto it is a six hour drive from the Twin Cities. In this friendly Scandinavian community, visitors will find many recreational opportunities in the towns parks and nearby state forests parks.

As a result of this unique location, wildlife enthusiasts traveling by auto, bike or foot can appreciate the outdoor paradise this area offers. Nearly forty percent of Roseau County is open, accessible through state and county parks, forests and wildlife areas. Surrounding Roseau there are tamarack bogs to the north, prairie grasslands to the west and sandy pine forests to the east. All areas provide ample opportunity for a gravel road ride or wilderness fat and mountain biking adventure. Along the way take in several wildlife viewing stations, pick berries or go for a hike and explore. Plus, Roseau is a prime stop on Minnesota’s premier bird watching list, on the Pine to Prairie Birding Trail.

Parks to explore in the area

Four of the most visited Roseau outdoor recreation areas are the Roseau City Park, Sprague Creek Natural Area, Hayes Lake State Park and Beltrami State Forest.

Roseau City Park

The mountain bike trail on Mount Roseau.

The City Park here is located on 40 wooded acres in southeast section of the city, along the Roseau River. The park provides a variety of activities including mountain biking and a paved trail. Here you will find Mount Roseau mountain bike trail system offering over 6.5 miles of fun twists and turns for all skill levels. The park also offers: various playground equipment, sand volleyball, a fishing pier and Frisbee golf activities.

Click here to see our bike map of Roseau.

Sprague Creek Natural Area

Easy to ride to, the Peatland Scientific and Natural Area, is just north of Roseau. Once you arrive this area offers hiking trails that features many bird viewing opportunities.

Hayes Lake State Park

Accessible by bike, Hayes Lake State Park is located 18 miles southeast of Roseau, on County Road 4. Located on the edge of Beltrami Island State Forest, this quiet true north park consists of 3,000 acres of pines, Hayes Lake and wildlife. The park also features a day use area with fishing pier, swimming beach and campsites. The lake is a non-motorized recreational area where canoeing is a popular activity. Hayes Lake also offers the opportunity to view rare birds such as bald eagles, great grey owls, Sandhill cranes and a variety of warblers. Wildlife found in the area includes elk, moose, bear and wolves.

Beltrami State Forest

From this forest road many logging roads and trails intersect and are ready yo explore.

From this forest road many primitive logging roads and trails intersect and are ready to explore by bike.

Further east from the State Park and as I mentioned earlier, what really excites me about this area for a true north biking experience in Beltrami Island State Forest. The second largest of Minnesota’s 59 state forests, there are five rivers that have their headwaters here. Also containing scientific and natural areas riding the forest here is unique.

A family enjoying a true north bike experience in the forest.

In this huge forest there are more than 138 miles of logging roads and trail to explore on your bike. Make sure you have a compass or GPS device along when exploring the trails. Pedaling around low flatland’s, peat bogs and ridges covered in pines it’s easy to get lost. Pedaling along the forest roads you will pass through the heart of blueberry country. You might find evidence of a former homestead foundation or village also.

When not biking

From wheels to snow track the the Thrill Team helped to promote snowmobiling with this stunt track.

Being the birthplace of snowmobiling and Polaris Industries, in between daily outings take in a assembly plant tour and visit the museum in Roseau. At the Experience Center see artifacts from the earliest snowmobiles to Polaris’s movement into All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV’s). History buffs will enjoy the Roseau Pioneer Farm and Village, as well as the Roseau County Museum.

Another Roseau summer tradition is the 100-year old Roseau County Fair. Held in the middle of July, this annual event can add to your biking adventure if you visit at that time. Other activities around town include the community pool, paddling the Roseau River, the local theatre, a bowling alley and arcade. Plus, downtown you will find many antique shops to browse through and reminisce about the past.

Places to stay for a true north biking experience

On my last visit, while exploring this true north play land I headquartered at the AmericInn. Roseau also offers a couple more hotels to fit your needs. Camping (RV and tent sites-with water and electric) in the city park is also an option.

Roseau has something for every interest. Check your calendar and plan your next true north biking experience today.

Bike Pic June 21, fun is in the air as Summer is officially here!

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With an undulating pattern of spring weather to prepare us, the Summer of 2018 is officially here! Today’s solstice bike pic was taken at Lebanon Hills Trail, in Eagan, MN, last year. Here two young biker chicks at an event were having a great time. What a fun way to start the summer fun, then at a bike event!

Get into the zone and plan your next bike outing with family and friends at one of the many HaveFunBiking Destinations. View all the fun ideas and bike destinations in the new HaveFunBiking Guide.

Thanks for viewing our ‘Monday Morning Sun’ Bike Pic

Have a great day and a memorable new year ahead!

Bike Pic May 21, riding into the Monday morning sun

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Riding into the Monday morning sun as our beautiful spring weather continues. Today’s photo was taken in Lakeville, MN as this biker chick was having a great time. What a fun way to start the week!

Get into the zone and plan your next bike outing with family and friends at one of the many HaveFunBiking Destinations. View all the fun ideas and bike destinations in the new HaveFunBiking Guide.

Thanks for viewing our ‘Monday Morning Sun’ Pic of the Day

Have a great day and a memorable new year ahead!

Bike Pic May 14, riding into the Monday morning sun

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Riding into the Monday morning sun as our spring weather, feels more like June temperatures. Today’s photo was taken on a Lebanon Hills Trail, in Eagan, MN with this biker chick having a great time. What a fun way to start the week!

Get into the zone and plan your next bike outing with family and friends at one of the many HaveFunBiking Destinations. View all the fun ideas and bike destinations in the new HaveFunBiking Guide.

Thanks for viewing our ‘Monday Morning Sun’ Pic of the Day

Have a great day and a memorable new year ahead!

Bike Pic April 25, wheelie Wednesday may help you into your sweet spot

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With a few remnants of snow, along the Minnesota River this wheelie Wednesday take a chance. If life were a fat bike trail a wheelie could help smooth out your day-to-day ride.

This photo was taken in January at Race #1, at a Get Phat with Pat event in the Minnesota River Bottoms, in Bloomington, MN.

Thanks for viewing our ‘Wheelie Wednesday’ Pic of the Day

Have a great day and a memorable new year ahead!

Bike Pic April 11, wheelie Wednesday may help you into your sweet spot

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As we plow through more wet snow, a bike pic to remember! This wheelie Wednesday or Hump Day, take a chance. If life were a fat bike trail a wheelie could help smooth out your day-to-day ride or aid you in dropping into your sweet spot. Why not review the following tips to make your week an adrenaline high?

This photo was taken in January at Race #1, at a Get Phat with Pat event in the Minnesota River Bottoms, in Bloomington, MN.

Thanks for viewing our ‘Wheelie Wednesday’ Pic of the Day

Have a great day and a memorable new year ahead!