Welcome. We're your premier source for fun places to explore by bicycle or on foot. Offering guides, maps and articles on road and trail riding for the novice to seasoned cyclist - helping you find your #NextBikeAdventure
This bike pic Tuesday, you may need and alternative after scattered showers added to the saturated landscape last night. For the next couple of days, you may have to take advantage of the many bike-skills tracks or a paved trail in Minnesota.
So, adjust to the warmer temps, have your rain gear ready, and get into the zone when continuing your time outdoors for that #NextBikeAdventure. View all the great ideas and bike destinations in the latest Iowa or Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide. Then plan your next outing with family and friends, and check out more stories at Let’s Do MN.
Thanks for viewing our bike pic
As we roll through our 21st year as an outdoor media, enjoy!
As we pedal forward, we aim to encourage more people to bike and have fun while highlighting all the unforgettable places you can 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 we should post? If so, please send your picture(s) to [email protected]. Please Include a brief caption for the image, who shot it, and where. To be considered, the photo (s) sent to us should be a minimum of 1,000 pixels wide. If we use your photo, you will receive photo credit and acknowledgment on Facebook and Instagram.
As we continue encouraging more people to bike, please view our Destination section at HaveFunBiking.com for your #NextBikeAdventure. Also, check our 15th annual mobile-friendly MN Bike Guide, a handy booklet full of maps of fun places to bike and hike.
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. With one of our cameras ready to document your next cameo appearance while you are riding and having fun, we may be around the corner. You could be in one of our next Pic of the Day.
Have fun as we pedal into a summer of fond memories!
In Central Minnesota, you will find an extensive network of single-track and easy-to-moderate mountain bike trails to enjoy in spring, summer, Fall, or Winter. 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, there’s no shortage of mountain bike trails to explore in Minnesota. When planning that next adventure in the Heartland, here are several trail systems to choose from.
Spring, summer, fall, or winter, have fun on the trails in the Heartland.
Central Minnesota mountain bike trails to shred
Alexandria
Lake Brophy County Park: 6.5 miles
Perfect for beginners and experts to expert, this Central Minnesota gravity flow mountain bike trail system offers 200 feet of elevation change. The top overlooks the entire park and the city of Alexandria and has a prairie landscape. Here find dock jumps, drops, and a rock garden on the more technical, expert sections on the west side of the trail system. The eastern part is a cross-country ride with long straightaways and sweeping turns. There are bathrooms, beach access, and a playground. The paved Central Lakes Trail skirts the park and provides access by bike. Map
Kensington Rune Stone Park: 7.5 miles
Beginner to intermediate, dedicated singletrack. The park has a visitor center with bathrooms. Gromed for fat bikes in the winter. More Info
Fun on the trail
Cuyuna – Crosby, Deerwood, Ironton
Cuyuna Lakes State Recreation Area: about 70 miles
An IMBA Silver Level Ride Center, the Cuyuna one-way singletrack trails are marked from easy/beginner to hardcore/expert. Along the trails, enjoy stunning views from the top of overburdened piles left from the area’s mining days. Deep mine lakes offer refreshing dip after a hard ride. At the trailhead, dive in or take the kayak out for a paddle. The town of Cuyuna also has a pump track. Lots of trails are groomed for fat biking in the winter, including the paved Cuyuna Lakes State Trail, which runs through the heart of the system and connects many of the mountain bike trail clusters. Look for the new 7.5-mile adaptive trail that accommodates hand cycles. Map
Fergus Falls
Ferber Park: 2.2 miles
A mix of rolling hills and flat terrain in wooded and grassy areas with less difficult to more challenging trails. Trails were developed by volunteers with help from the City of Fergus Falls and continue to be improved. Look for additional trails in the future. Map
Glenwood
Barsness Park: 7 miles
The park offers beginners and those with intermediate skills a single track system. Two challenging climbs take you to panoramic views of Lake Minnewaska near downtown Glenwood. This system packs in many rollers, berms, and fun, flowy sections, including some rock obstacles. Map
Hutchinson
Stahl’s Lake Park: 3 miles
Moderate terrain with some small hills, a balance beam, and seesaw. Map
McGregor
Savanna Portage State Park: 10 miles
Here find a mixture of grass and dirt double-track trails. The park offers varied topography in its several loops, with a challenging climb up the Continental Divide with an awesome view as a reward. Map
Milaca
Milaca City Trails: 14 miles
Located near the Rum River, this system offers a variety of
Trail options for riders of all skill levels.
Most of the parks trails are singletrack and go through a mix of woods, hills, and fields. Trails are groomed for fat biking in the winter. Map
Pillager – Brainerd Lakes Area
Pillsbury State Forest: 27 miles
The State Forest trails are a mixture of gravel, grass, and dirt logging roads, The trails wind and twist through the forest and past lakes with rolling terrain. All trails are multi-use. You may encounter some horseback riding activity. Map
Pine River
Cut Lake Trail: 10 miles
Find grassy trails through the forest around Deer and Cut Lakes, perfect for beginner to intermediate skill levels. Great backcountry riding when you are looking for solitude. Map
Saint Cloud
North Loop – Jail Trail: 7.5 miles
Beginner to intermediate with advanced options. Singletrack trail runs through dense woods with sections along the fence of the Minnesota Correctional Facility. Groomed for fat bikes in the winter. Info
Plum Creek – River Bluffs Regional Park: 3 miles
Beginner singletrack loop near the Mississippi River. Groomed for fat bikes in the winter. Info
Quarry Park: 2 miles
The new Quarry Park trail system has been cut by hand by Mid Minnesota Cycling Club (MMCC) members over the last few years. Trails are a mix of gravel, dirt, and grass around some granite outcroppings. Passing through a heavily wooded area with a few fairly technical sections where you bike over billion-year-old bedrock. There are many other trails at the park to create an enjoyable MTB trail experience for all rider skill levels. The entrance to the new trail is near the gated entrance. Just follow the fence line to the trailhead. Map
Spicer – Willmar
Prairie Woods ELC: 4 miles
Easy singletrack trails at the Environmental Learning Center start at the parking lot and wind through a mix of open prairie and deciduous woods. The Oak Savannah Trail has a seesaw; other trails have short boardwalk sections and bridges. The Kandi Trail Riders maintain these trails and groom for fat biking in the winter. Info
Wadena
Black’s Grove: 8 miles
Beginner to advanced scenic trails that wind through a wooded setting and along Oak Creek. Groomed for fat biking and skiing in the winter. Map
In the Twin Cities, you will find an extensive network of mountain bike trails, offering rugged single-track and easy-to-moderate trails to enjoy. 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, there’s no shortage of mountain bike trails in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. For that next Adventure you are planning, here are more than 25 trail systems to shred.
Plenty of trails to shred.
Fun riding Twin Cities Mountain Bike Trails
Bethel
Bethel Haunted Forest Trails: 6 miles
A series of interconnected loops in an 80-acre wooded area, one mile south of the town of Bethel. Rated easy to intermediate with advanced sections featuring hills, twists, and log crossings. Trails are shared with hikers and are open for fat biking and snowshoeing in the winter. Map
Spring, summer, fall, or winter, the River Bottoms is a fun place to ride.
Bloomington
Minnesota River Trail: 11 miles
Another Twin Cities mountain bike trail system is nicknamed Minnesota River Bottoms. You will find mostly singletrack winding through wooded areas along the river bank. The trails can be challenging and muddy after rain. Plenty of jumps (optional) and some obstacles. Trails are shared with hikers and are groomed for fat biking in the winter. Map
Burnsville
Buck Hill: 6 miles
This is a beginner to an intermediate system that includes two downhill flow trails. The skills park here features a bermed course with drops, a rock garden, skinnies, and a dragon tail. Map
Terrace Oaks: 2.3 miles
A fairly technical, intermediate singletrack trail system with many climbs and amazing descents. Map
Cottage Grove
Cottage Grove Bike Park
West Draw Park is a work in progress with the Cottage Grove Bike Park. Setting on 26 acres, this family-friendly park currently includes a 4x track, two pump tracks, and a complete dirt jump plaza. Info
Cambridge
Springvale County Park: 3 miles
A flowing singletrack trail system offers banked turns and a beautiful rolling jump while weaving up and around a lake, then traversing streams, swamps, forests, and a glacier moraine berm. Elevation gain is just under 160′ but these trails are fast and are great for beginner to intermediate riders. Constructed drops, teeter-totters, rolling jumps, boardwalk sections, and rock gardens keep the ride interesting. Trails can be accessed from both the North and South parking lots. There is a bike repair station along with a bathroom and drinking fountain in the South parking lot. Groomed for fat bikes in the winter. Map
Chaska
Hawk’s Ridge Mountain Bike Trail: 4 miles
Hawk’s Ridge occupies a narrow sliver of land just east of Pioneer Ridge Middle School. It’s primarily an open, hilly, multi-use trail hand-built by volunteers of the Carver Trails group. Trails are beginner and intermediate levels with great views, challenging corners, and verticals carved into the hillside. There is a green (easy) trail around the perimeter of the park and a short black (most difficult) trail also. Note: Parking is available across the street at Pioneer Ridge Middle School during off-school hours only. Since there’s no parking on any residential streets around Hawk’s Ridge, riders must park at nearby city parks and ride in during school hours. Map
Eagan
Lebanon Hills Regional Park: 11 miles
This course is a favorite for many in the region, with some beginner trails but mostly intermediate. With a good mixture of rolling hills and technical singletrack. Woods provide a secluded feel in the south suburban area. Groomed for fat bikes in the winter. Map
Great jumps along the switchbacks.
Elk River
Hillside Park: 6 miles
The park here is mostly posted with advanced to expert trails that are either climbing or descending for the entire course. A great park for skills practice. with quick/tight switchbacks, rock rolls, drops, berms, and good jumps. Groomed for fat bikes in the winter. Map
Inver Grove Heights
Salem Hills: 4.4 miles
Gently rolling hills through woods and reclaimed prairie consisting of three loops: Harmon Park, Sawmill, and Foul Pond Loop. Map
Lake Elmo
Lake Elmo Park Reserve: 8 miles
A beautiful park for beginners to intermediate with a pleasant view of Eagle Point Lake. This is a multi-use trail with many fun features with some hard-packed singletrack and grassy trail. Be prepared to share the park with horseback riders. Fat bikes are allowed on Big Bluestem Trail in the winter. Map
Reid Park Trails: 1 mile
On 30 acres, this beginner-friendly trail is a work in progress. Map
Sunfish Lake Park: 5 miles
This park offers three loops with distinct ratings of easy, intermediate, and advanced skill levels. Features include a bridge, logs, and switchbacks. Note that other trails exist in this park, and biking is only allowed on the singletrack trails. Groomed for fat bikes in the winter. Map
Find trails for beginners to advanced.
Lakeville
West Lake Marion Trail: 5 miles
On the west side of Lake Marion, near Casperson Park,
The hard-packed singletrack course flows through rolling wooded and open field terrain. Find a pump track at the trailhead. Groomed for fat bikes in the winter. Map
Lino Lakes
Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park: 3.2 miles
Here you will find two separate, one-way singletrack trail loops. One on the east side of the park (Sherman Lake Loop) and one on the west side (Rice Lake Trail), about two miles apart. Both are continuous loops with a single entry and exit point connected to existing paved trail riders will use to access the loops. The two trails ride similarly with a flowy design, but a slightly different feel. Both are entry-level trails suitable for most riders. The trail loop on the west side features a few challenging climbs combined with fun, flowy segments for a total length of approximately 1.4 miles. The 1.8-mile east side loop features a few jump opportunities with some downhill segments that should add a little thrill for gravity trail fans. The plan is to eventually have additional miles of trails in separate nodes across the park. Map
Maple Grove
Elm Creek Park Reserve: 12.7 miles
Built to accommodate all skill levels of riders with Interconnected singletrack loop trails. the system is mostly intermediate, with short sections of easy and advanced trails. Map
Minneapolis
Theodore Wirth Park: 12 miles
A great trail system consisting of several separate loops, just minutes from downtown. The singletrack trails are Intermediate to advanced, offering twists and turns with many technical features. Groomed for fat bikes in the winter. One more of the Twin Cities mountain bike trails to check out. Map
Minnetonka
Lone Lake Park: 5 miles
This trail system is designed to accommodate a variety of mountain biking skill levels. It offers ample challenges, from the steep topography to the fast, flowy single-track. The trail is also open to hiking and trail running in dry months, as well as snowshoeing and fat biking in the winter. Two trailheads provide users easy access from Rowland Road, in the park’s southwest section, or Shady Oak Road, in the east. Map/Info
Here you will find many features to keep the ride interesting.
Monticello
Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park: 14.25 miles
This system offers many options for all skill levels, including fast singletrack, switchbacks, and a meandering double track. Be ready to deal with logs, roots, and wooden bridges. Map
Montiview Challenge Course: 2.75 miles
As the name implies, this trail demands good bike-handling skills. A very tight and twisty singletrack route with many short, steep hills runs through the woods and some open spots with great views of the surrounding area. Jumps, bridges, teeters, rock gardens, boulder piles, and other features keep the ride interesting. The park also features a sculpture by a local artist and a bike repair station. A work in progress; look for more trails to be added in the future. Parking and a restroom are available near the trailhead at the top of Holy Spirit Trail, and the park can also be accessed from the off-road paved path off Jason Ave. Groomed for fat bikes in the winter. Info
Oak Park Heights/Stillwater
Valley View Trails: 3.2 miles
Intermediate singletrack with some beginner and advanced sections. Features include a bridge, boardwalk, rock garden, and switchbacks. Trails are one way with an estimated 400′ elevation change. Map
Rockford
Lake Rebecca Park Reserve: 13.25 miles
Easy to advanced singletrack loops through the wooded landscapes with wetlands. Start at the Hilltop picnic area. Map
Saint Paul
Battle Creek Regional Park-West: 8 miles
Battle Creek features a wide selection of trails within its boundaries for Intermediate to advanced riders. including both 3.3-mile multi-use trails and 4.5 miles of singletrack. Thickly wooded, with some limited visibility on turns. One more of Twin Cities mountain bike trails to check out. Map
Fort Snelling State Park: 10 miles
Enjoyable riding for beginners along the Dakota County side of the river. Generally flat trails but scenic. Starts as a wide double track then narrows to singletrack. Trails are multi-use and perfect for fat biking in the winter. Map
Savage
Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve: 10 miles
This trail system features glacial ridges, hilly terrain, and an extensive, lush forest. This is a challenging trail and a favorite for mountain bikers. Map
Shakopee
Excel Energy Mountian Bike Park: 4 miles
The loop trails circling Quarry Lake are rated beginner to intermediate. The singletrack course weaves between the tree cover and a larger prairie area, taking advantage of natural and constructed topography. This trail was designed and built to be ridden in any kind of weather, so it doesn’t close when it’s wet. One special feature is the so-called chicken foot, a fallen oak tree that’s been cut flat for riders to balance on as they ride across it. The park also has a pump track. Map
Waconia
Monarch Singletrack: 10 miles
This trail system at Carver Park Reserve comprises five connected loops that accommodate all experience levels. Easy Rider features wider tread and few sharp turns and climbs, making it ideal for hand cyclists and beginners. The Raptor Ridge loop has flowy trails and a highlight of the entire singletrack: A vista overlooking Parley Lake followed by berms and a roller descent. Paradise Trail has the longest climb of the system and an expert feature area with a concrete rollout, jumps, a slalom section, and a shorter, technical climb. It offers bypasses for the difficult features to accommodate intermediate-level riders. Groomed for fat bikes in the winter. Info/Map
Enjoy the twisty stacked loop of intermediate single-track trail here.
Woodbury
Carver Lake Park: 4 miles
Carver Lake Park is a nice twisty stacked loop of intermediate singletrack. It’s never too technical, but there are several places where a short advanced side trail leaves the main trail, then rejoins it again shortly.
One more of the Twin Cities mountain bike trails to check out. Offering great flow, it’s easy to get a couple of full laps in less than 1.5 hours with the three sections or loops. Or, add an extra lap on your favorite loop. The trail dries out faster than others in the Twin Cities as well, which makes for a shorter downtime after it rains. There is water (during the warm months) and an outhouse and repair station available at the trailhead. You will also find a well-developed skills park here. The trail is also groomed for fat bike riding in the winter. Map
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, Northern Minnesota has a mountain bike park waiting. For that next Adventure you are planning, here are more than 50 trail systems to choose from.
You will find the fat bike trails fun in spring, summer, fall, or winter!
Fun Northwestern Minnesota Mountain Bike Trails
Bemidji
Lake Bemidji State Park: 5 miles
Beginner to advanced: Park has much to offer with dirt and packed grass trails. The system is well maintained, and the forested terrain has some challenging sections. Map
Movil Maze: 8 miles
This system lives up to its name, so bring a compass and use the map of the area. There are several spurs that branch off this trail. The trail is a combination of grassy sections and dirt singletrack with ramps. Parts of the system are groomed for fat bikes in the winter. Map
Callaway
Maplelag: 23 miles
Here you will find a mixture of challenging singletrack and grassy double track, easy to expert on well-kept trails through hardwood forest. Maplelag Resort offers dining and lodging options. About 25km are groomed for fat biking in the winter. Map
Detroit Lakes
Detroit Mountain: 10 miles
This mountain bike park has trails perfect for beginners and experts. Ride contour flow trails, take the lift up to the top, then zip down the downhill flow trails, or ride the skills park. Lodge with bathrooms, bar, and concessions are onsite. Connecting trail takes you to Mountain View Rec Area trail. Groomed fat bike trails are available in the winter on select routes. Map
Dunton Locks County Park: 3 miles
While in the area, find trail loops along the shores between Lake Sallie and Muskrat Lake. Some wind through hardwood forested hills. Trails are shared with hikers and are groomed for skiing in the winter. Map
Mountain View Recreation Area: 6 miles
Single track loops through mature, mixed hardwood forest. Trails are laid out to be challenging. Connecting trail takes you to Detroit Mountain Rec Area. Map
Lake Bronson
Lake Bronson State Park: 5 miles
Good variety of accessible trails and loops to allow for different choices. The trails go through forest and prairie and are a mixture of grass and gravel. Map
Moorhead
Gooseberry Mound Park: 3.5 miles
Flat and wide singletrack loops on the banks of the Red River of the North. Connects to a short skills-building trail with bridges and rock gardens in Horn Park. This park is beginner-friendly because obstacles have ride-around options. Groomed for fat bikes in the winter. Map
M.B. Johnson Park: 4 miles
Singletrack loops along the banks of the Red River of the North. Trailhead has bathrooms, water, and a shelter. Groomed for fat bikes in the winter. Map
Iwen Park: 7 miles
Beginner-friendly trail consisting of a north and south section. Not groomed for fat bikes, but usually well-traveled by snowshoers. Map
Roseau
Hayes Lake State Park: 5 miles
Beginner trail on grassy, level terrain in a wooded area. Trails start at Hayes Dam. Map
Mount Roseau: 6 miles
Twisting trails on rolling hills in an open, grassy area, rated beginner to intermediate. Lots of switchbacks on this 60-foot artificial hill keep you on your toes. Map
Ulen to Crookston
Agassiz Recreational Trail: 53 miles
This abandoned railroad grade is a designated multiple-use trail shared by pedestrians, cyclists, equestrians, and ATV riders. It passes through Ulen, Twin Valley, Gary, Fertile, and Crookston and offers scenic views of the Sand Hill and Wild Rice Rivers while passing many farm fields. Map
Family fun is a sure bet on many of the trails in Minnesota’s Northeast
Northeastern Minnesota Mountain Bike Trails
Northeastern Minnesota has the Sawtooth Mountains along the North Shore of Lake Superior, ski hills at Spirit Mountain and Giant’s Ridge, the deep forests of the Superior and Chippewa National Forests, the 135-mile Arrowhead State Trail, and the pristine beauty of some of the state’s most beautiful state parks.
Carlton
Jay Cooke State Park: 13 miles
This trail system combines grass, dirt, and pavement with spectacular views. Silver Creek Trail and Summer Trail are groomed for fat bikes in the winter. Map
Trails in the Chippewa National Forest
State and national forests offer a variety of areas to explore by bike. Some trails are exclusively non-motorized, while others are shared with various users, including OHVs and equestrians.
Simpson Creek Trail: 13 miles
Deer River, MN
Enjoy rolling topography through pines and along glacial eskers, with overlooks onto Cut Foot Sioux Lake and journeys into the cedar swamp. Cyclists travel on both old tote roads and dirt trails. Access at the Cut Foot Sioux Visitor Center or Eagle Nest Road (FR2198). Map
Cut Foot Sioux Trail: 18 miles
Deer River, MN
An extension of the Simpson Creek Trail, this is an 18-mile loop along old Forest Roads with gravel and sand. Access from the Cut Foot Sioux Visitor Center or the Hwy 46 Wayside Rest 5 miles north of the Center. Map
Suomi Hills Trail: 19 miles
Marcell, MN
The remote and stunning Suomi Hills has 19 miles of hiking, biking, and ski trails and is part of a semi-primitive non-motorized area. The rolling topography offers mountain bike trails for intermediate and advanced cyclists. Access the Suomi Hills area from the Highway 38 National Scenic Byway. Map
Trout Lake Trail: 11 miles
Marcell, MN
This is a nice short scenic trail into the woods and out onto the Trout Lake Estate, a national historic site featuring a 1920 lumber baron estate. Access from the north end of Trout Lake off Co 326 or the south end near FR 2065 and FR 2065. Map
Cloquet
Pine Valley Trails: 5 miles
Stacked loops rated beginner to intermediate with switchbacks and flow sections through stands of pine trees and open areas. These gravel trails are machine built and feature two expert and one intermediate jump trail. Because of the nature of the soil, trails remain open even when wet. Skinnies and gap jump with b-lines keep things interesting. Groomed for fat biking in a park that also has ski trails. A dirt parking lot with a porta potty is available adjacent to the Cloquet hockey arena. Map
Cohasset
Tioga Trails: 25 miles
This new mountain bike trail system in the location of a former mine pit offers trails for all skill levels as well as jump lines, flow trails, and a beginner skills section. Groomed for fat bikes in the winter. Map/Info
Duluth Area Mountain Bike Trails
Duluth has been named Gold Level Ride Center by the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA), one of six destinations worldwide. The Cyclists of Gitchee Gumee Shores (COGGS) maintain and develop Duluth’s extensive trail system.
Craft Connector: 1.1 miles
The two-way trail connects the Enger Tower Scenic Overlook and the Lincoln Park Craft District. The downhill ride from Enger has some jump opportunities.
Downer Park: 0.5 miles
A work in progress for the advanced rider. More trails coming.
Duluth Traverse: 40 miles
As beginner-level singletrack, the Duluth Traverse (DT) connects the city’s trail networks at Lester Park, Hartley Park, Piedmont-Brewer Park, Spirit Mountain, and Mission Creek. Currently, 75% of the DT is on singletrack trails, the balance is on gravel roads and some paved road sections. It’s a work in progress and will eventually be all standalone singletrack.
Hartley Park: 9 miles
Beginner to intermediate trails through the hardwood forests and open marsh areas of Hartley Nature Center.
Lester Park: 12.5 miles
Beginner to intermediate. Beautiful views of the river valley and smooth, flowing single track. There are some rocky or rooty sections, but overall the trail is non-technical and the best option in the Duluth area if you are newer to mountain biking. Groomed for fat tire biking in the winter.
Mission Creek: 23 miles
Beginner to intermediate. Fast and flowing singletrack with many bridges, berms, and rollers. This trail network traverses a dramatic, heavily forested landscape with spectacular views of the St. Louis River Valley and Jay Cooke State Park. Groomed for fat biking in the winter.
Piedmont & Brewer Trails: 9 miles
Intermediate to advanced, challenging trails with bridges and features. Significant elevation changes with large rocky bluffs. Groomed for fat biking in the winter.
Spirit Mountain Bike Park
Beginner to advanced. Outstanding views of Lake Superior are the norm at Spirit Mountain. The terrain is demanding but is sure to reward with amazing vistas. Lift-assisted downhill mountain biking and fat biking.
Stone Age: 1.2 miles
Short but quite a workout, even for advanced riders. A long, technical uphill is rewarded with awesome views and the way down has challenges around every corner. Just north of the Mission Creek trails.
This remote and rugged backcountry trail travels through wilderness areas on Minnesota’s North Shore. It’s primarily used for snowmobiling but is open to hiking and biking and, in parts, ATV riding. Map
Ely Area Mountain Bike Trails
Hidden Valley Recreation Area: 23 miles
Hidden Valley’s ski trails become a mountain bike paradise during the warmer months. In addition to 13 miles of wide, grassy paths, there are another 10 miles of singletrack trail. The system currently consists of five loops rated beginner to expert:
– Magic Carpet: Any level of rider. Balance of climbs and flowy downhills
– The Big Pines Loop: Scenic views as you drop into and climb out of a narrow slot canyon.
– Erratic Behavior: Good climbs, big boulders, and rock gardens with challenging terrain.
– The Outback: The most difficult and longest trail into the far corners of Hidden Valley. Great vistas, good drops, the opportunity to get some air, and rocks to climb.
– Ely Airlines: This short, one-mile trail features jumps, drops, banked turns, and other challenges.
The singletrack trail is groomed for fat biking in the winter. Hidden Valley also has a one-mile mountain biking skills course near the club chalet. Info
Fernberg Tower Area
This area is located along Fernberg Road, east of Ely. Several county and forest roads intersect, giving an opportunity to explore the Superior National Forest, visit the hill that once held the Fernberg Lookout Tower, and visit several lakes. The route includes both gravel and natural surface trails. More Info
Nickel Lake Area: 12 miles
This area provides rolling wooded hills, grassy bogs, and beaver dams. There is access to several isolated lakes and an abandoned granite quarry that last operated in the 30s. More Info
Fenske Lake Area
This area has many opportunities to explore forests and logging roads. Trails cross over rolling hills and pass through spruce forests. More Info
Grand Marais
Pincushion Mountain: 10 miles
Challenging trails with awesome Lake Superior views. Switchbacks, bridges, rock gardens, and lots of elevation changes. Groomed for fat tire biking in the winter. Map
Grand Rapids
Forest History Center: 5 miles
Explore the Forest History Center by bike. Beginner trail through 1900s logging camp and virgin timber forest. More Info
Legion Trails: 7 miles
Hand-built singletrack trail ranging from fast and flowing to tight, twisty, and technical. Near Grand Rapids High School. Map
Grand Rapids to Ely
Taconite State Trail: 165 miles
The popular multipurpose trail moves through out-of-the-way forests and lakes and stretches 165 miles from Grand Rapids to Ely. It intersects with the Arrowhead State Trail just west of Lake Vermillion. Passes through Bear Head Lake State Park. Some areas may be impassable in the summer. Map
Hinckley
Saint Croix State Park: 21 miles
Wide, grassy trail in the woods with some dirt sections on the Matthew Lourey State Trail. Map
On the Mesabi Iron Range
Biwabik
Giants Ridge: 9 miles
Giants Ridge offers lift-served mountain biking on eight downhill gravity trails ranging from easy to expert. The Mountain Bike Park has over nine miles of purpose-built trails on rolling hills through the Superior National Forest. In the winter, 60km of the groomed ski trails are available for fat biking and the resort also offers lift-served downhill fat biking on select downhill runs. Map/Info
Heading out on Red Head
Chisholm
Redhead Mountain Bike Park: 25 miles
A new, developing trail system on the grounds of the Minnesota Discovery Center as of June 2020. Built around a series of former mine pits, this challenging trail system has some beginner trails but is mostly for intermediate to advanced riders. Punchy climbs and descents, plenty of rock gardens, and jumps make for a great ride, while the scenery is nothing short of spectacular with its ravines, red cliffs, and views of deep, blue lakes. There’s even a waterfall crossing on Fractured Falls Trail. Groomed for fat bikes in the winter.
The goal is to eventually offer trolley rides to some of the far-out trail loops near the Glen location, a restored, historic mining village. The Discovery Center has restrooms and a restaurant. Map/Info
Hibbing
Maple Hill Park: 4 miles
Intermediate, two-way singletrack with a dirt surface in a 133-acre city park. Map
Virginia
Big Aspen Trail: 21 miles
The Big Aspen Trail is 21 miles in the Superior National Forest with many loop opportunities and beautiful scenic vistas. The trail is part of old logging roads and abandoned railroad grades from the Virginia and Rainy Lake Lumber Company. It is a multi-use trail, allowing mountain bikes, ATVs, horses, and in the winter, cross-country skiers. Map
Lookout Mountain: 11 miles
The trail system has dedicated mountain bike singletrack with berms, bridges, and rock gardens in the Superior National Forest. Once you reach the top of a large hill it’s mostly rolling hills through forestland. There are a few large rock features and some challenging intermediate skill-level sections. The trails are two-way; look out for oncoming bikes and hikers. Map
Side Lake
McCarthy Beach State Park: 17 miles
A choice of nice rides is available on the park trails and the low-maintenance St. Louis County roads inside the park boundary. Bikers can venture out of the park on the Taconite State Trail. Map
Fun on the trail
Tofte/Lutsen
Britton Peak: 5.5 miles
Trails are intermediate to advanced with a short beginner loop. Enjoy views of the Temperance River Valley and advanced features like a rock garden and boardwalk. Connects with High Climber and Jackpot Trails. Map
Jackpot and High Climber Trails: 16 miles
This unique ride follows the rolling ridges overlooking Lake Superior and features a machine-built flow trail with big berms, rock gardens, drops, jumps, and rock-armored creek crossings in a Wilderness setting. It’s laid out to be beginner-rated, but technical B-line options are up to the expert level. Parking is available on either end at Britton Peak Trailhead (Tofte) and Ski Hill Road Trailhead (Lutsen Mountains) and on Onion River Road.
While the trail is point-to-point, there are options for a loop ride. From Lutsen Mountains: Ride north on Ski Hill Road to Barker Lake Road, take Barker Lake Road to Honeymoon Trail (USFS 164), and head west on Honeymoon Trail to Sawbill Trail. From there, ride the pavement south to Britton Peak. Follow Jackpot and High Climber back to Lutsen. This option adds approximately 22 miles. Another option is to take the Gitchi Gami Trail. Onion River Road bisects the trail system and serves as the dividing line between High Climber to the east and Jackpot to the west. Map
Tower to International Falls
Arrowhead State Trail: 135 miles
Approximately 69 miles of the trail are suitable for mountain biking in the summer, but there may be wet areas. Intersects with the Taconite State Trail. Mountain bikers should call the nearest Parks and Trails Area office before leaving for their destination to inquire about local trail conditions and amenities. This is a multi-use trail, including horseback riding. Map
Two Harbors
Donald D. Ferguson Demonstration Forest: 10 miles
Easy beginner trails through boreal woods in the Superior National Forest, shared with hikers. The trail system is set to expand, with the ultimate goal of 15-20 miles. Groomed for fat bikes in the winter, skis, and snowshoes are also allowed. Map
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park: 3 miles
Easy trail with a mix of dirt and grass shared with hikers. No singletrack. Stunning views of the Split Rock Lighthouse along Lake Superior. Can be combined with a return on the paved Gitchi Gami Trail for a 6-mile loop. The park grooms this loop and another 3 miles for fat biking in the winter. Map
Split Rock Wilds Trail: 22 miles
The newest mountain bike trail system in northeastern Minnesota offers a challenging, point-to-point backcountry riding experience connecting the new Shipwreck Creek campground at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park with the Cove Point Lodge property. Trail conditions vary from rugged and rocky to fast and flowy and include multiple advanced and expert-level features like jumps, rock rolls, and drops. There is, however, a beginner-friendly loop near the campground. Map
In Southern Minnesota’s open prairies, meandering rivers, and stunning bluffs, find an extensive network of rugged single-track 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 Adventure you are planning, here are more than 20 trail systems to choose from.
Spring, summer, fall or winter, have fun on the trails in Southern Minnesota.
Southern Minnesota’s fun mountain bike trails
Albert Lea
Myre Big Island State Park: 7 miles
The State Parks trails are well-marked trails shared with hikers through forested hills and by Albert Lea Lake. Riders will find several beginner to intermediate-skill-level trails but limited access when wet. Map
Austin
Schindler’s Way: 5 miles
This flat and fast singletrack system flows through forest and prairie and sweeps along the Cedar River near the Hormel Foods campus and Todd Park. Groomed for fat biking in the winter. A great beginner trail. Map
Faribault
Caron Park: 2 miles
Beginner and intermediate singletrack loops with a dirt surface through a completely wooded area. Runs by Prairie Creek and features a natural waterfall. One interesting feature is a large erratic boulder on the intermediate loop. Trails are bi-directional. Info/Map
River Bend Nature Center: 10 miles
This multi-use dirt and grass trail is shared with hikers and travels through hardwoods along the Straight River with scenic bluff views. Fat bikes are allowed in the winter but need to stay off groomed ski trails. Map
Shattuck-St. Mary’s: 3 to 6 miles
The trails at Shattuck-St Mary’s are built into the side of the riverbank above the Straight River in Faribault. Hand-built, old-school singletrack traverses up one ravine and down the next. Although the trails aren’t rated as expert, fitness, and skills for riding switchbacks are key as you make your way up and down the many ravines. The trail is an out-and-back with a loop at both ends. The system is a work in progress, with about 80% built. Map
Beginner to advanced natural surface trails with a beautiful view of the Des Moines River.
Jackson
Belmont Park: 5.3 miles
Beginner to Advanced natural surface singletrack under the mature canopies of Oak, Walnut, and Ash trees with a beautiful view of the Des Moines River. Bobsled-style flow trails on intermediate and advanced portions of the trail system with plenty of switchbacks, berms, and jumps as they drop 120 feet into the river valley. The one-mile beginner trail near the parking lot is balance-bike friendly. Other amenities are an enclosed log shelter house with a fireplace, picnic tables, outdoor grills, a bonfire area, a hand pump for water, and an enclosed pit bathroom. Map
Lynd
Camden State Park: 5.25 miles
The State Park offers a beginner to an advanced mixture of fire roads and singletrack rolling through hardwood forests and prairie terrain. A highlight is the 1-mile rake-and-ride trail section on top of the river valley. Map
Mankato
Ft. LeHillier Skills Trail: 2.2 miles
A short skills-building area south of Mankato on the Blue Earth River with rollers and berms winding through the wooded river bottom contours. This is a perfect trail to get new riders acquainted with their bike. Trails are bi-directional. Located on the intersection of HWY 66 and 90 just south of Mount Kato. Map
Kiwanis Mountain Bike Trail: 6 miles
Two single-direction loops on the Minnesota River. The short beginner loop consists of rolling, berm-filled singletrack in the bottom river land with no obstacles or challenging climbs for the novice rider. More advanced features and options like log piles, jumps, and drops can be found on “B” lines with ride-around on the intermediate loop. A kids’ loop and skill park are accessible from the trailhead. Map
Mount Kato: 7 miles
Mount Kato has roughly seven miles of cross-country singletrack winding through the wooded hills of their ski area for novice to expert riders. Riders who like a challenge will enjoy the climbs and descents. Map
Seven Mile Creek: 8 miles
Seven Mile Creek’s multi-use bi-directional trails feature little technical challenge but some climbs and descents are steep and challenging. The area transitions from the Minnesota River to grasslands in the valley, to deciduous forests on either side and up the bluffs of the creek. Map
Northfield
Sechler Park: 1.75 miles
This park is designed to introduce beginners to mountain biking and runs along the woods on the shore of the Cannon River. Part of this system is a skills park with berms, jumps, drops, log piles, a teeter-totter, and more. Connects to Heath Creek Trail across County Road 78. Map
Heath Creek Trail: 1 mile
Across County Road 78 from the Sechler Park Trails, you’ll find a short, more technical trail with a rock garden along Heath Creek. Great views in a densely wooded area. Map
Fun on the trail
Owatonna
Kaplan’s Woods: 6 miles
Moderately difficult singletrack through hardwood forest in a 225-acre park setting. Some log jumps add challenges. The Owatonna Trails Association maintains six miles of the mountain bike trail and grooms for fat bikes in the winter. Map
Red Wing
Memorial Park Trails: 12 miles
This beginner to advanced trail system has many options, with long climbs, challenging obstacles, outstanding views, and twisting singletrack. Select a ride that matches your skills and enjoy the view off Sorin’s Bluff. 7.5 miles of this system is dedicated singletrack; the rest is shared with hikers. Map
Rochester
Eastwood Park: 7 miles
Find three easy and two intermediate trail loops by Eastwood Golf Course to enjoy. The trail system is mostly wooded, with many tight twists and turns along the Zumbro River. Map
Gamehaven Trails: 12 miles
The Gamehaven offers five easy and two intermediate singletrack loops with scenic overlooks on Gamehaven Lake. Groomed for fat bikes in the winter. Map
Saint Peter
Traverse des Sioux: 11 miles
This system consists of a
Rolling and winding trail through the Minnesota River bottoms.
weaving through the trees and over the undulating flood plain. The trails are bi-directional, with trail difficulty rated easy and beginner friendly. These trails have some of the area’s best views of the Minnesota River. Map
Winona
Holzinger Lodge Trail: 7 miles
Advanced: One of Southern Minnesota’s best single-track mountain bike trails with short, steep climbs, winding curves, and excellent views of the Mississippi at Bluffside Park. Some winter trails are available. Map
