Best Minnesota Mountain Bike Trails: Ride the Iron Range
It’s a good time to be a mountain bike lover in northern Minnesota. The sport has seen a massive resurgence of late, with trail systems in the region garnering national attention.
Many visitors’ search for mountain bike nirvana terminates in Duluth, and we can understand why – Duluth, MN’s trail system is great. However, many people aren’t aware that up here on the Mesabi Iron Range, MTB fever is in full swing.
From a world-class system of nearly 25 miles at Redhead Mountain Bike Park in Chisholm to an ever-growing lift-serviced downhill trail system at Giants Ridge in Biwabik, the Iron Range is well on its way to becoming the next Minnesota mountain bike mecca.
Where Mountain Biking Meets Mining History
Just as miners once extracted valuable ore from these lands, today’s riders are uncovering a different kind of treasure. The Iron Range’s mountain bike trails are like veins of gold running through the landscape, offering thrills and challenges for riders of all levels.
Redhead Mountain Bike Park: A Crown Jewel
At the heart of the Iron Range’s mountain biking scene lies the Redhead Mountain Bike Park. This world-class system boasts nearly 25 miles of trails that rival any in the country. Built on reclaimed iron mines, Redhead is a unique riding experience that’s both rugged and breathtaking.
Designed by Scott Linnenburger of Kay-Linn, Redhead’s trails wind through a landscape shaped by centuries of mining activity. Sheer cliff walls, rolling rocky hills, and significant elevation changes create an ideal terrain for mountain biking. It’s like riding through a living museum of industrial history!
Giants Ridge: Gravity-Defying Fun
For those who crave the rush of downhill riding, Giants Ridge in Biwabik is your go-to destination. This ever-growing, lift-served downhill trail system lets you conquer the mountain with ease before enjoying an exhilarating descent. It’s like having your cake and eating it too – all the thrills of downhill without the exhausting climb!
Why the Iron Range is a Mountain Biker’s Dream
The Iron Range offers a unique combination of factors that make it a must-visit for any serious mountain biker:
- Diverse Terrain: From flowy singletrack to technical descents, the range of trails caters to everyone from beginner to pro.
- Scenic Beauty: Ride alongside clear lakes formed in old mine pits, surrounded by lush northwoods forests.
- Year-Round Riding: When winter blankets the trails, switch gears and try fat biking for a whole new adventure.
- Rich History: Every trail tells a story of the region’s mining past, making each ride an educational experience.
- Growing Trail Network: With new trails constantly being developed, there’s always something new to explore.
Beyond the Trails: The Complete Iron Range Experience
After a day of conquering the trails, the Iron Range offers plenty of ways to refuel and relax:
Fuel Up
- Black Bear Bakery in Chisholm: Perfect for a pre-ride breakfast or post-ride lunch. You’ll find sandwiches, amazing pastries, and a rotating menu of specials.
- Jim’s Sports Bar: Grab a hearty meal and swap trail stories with locals.
- Valentini’s Supper Club: Enjoy a taste of Iron Range cuisine.
Rest and Recover
- The Chisholm Inn & Suites: Comfortable lodging close to the trails.
- Iron Trail Campground: For those who want to sleep under the stars.
- Vacation home rentals: Spread out and relax in your own space.
Expand Your Horizons
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Minnesota Discovery Center (MDC), the museum of the Iron Range. Enjoy MDC’s award-winning indoor and outdoor exhibits, ride the trolley, and on Thursday evenings in the summer, enjoy Bands, Brews and BBQ.
Plan Your Minnesota Mountain Biking Adventure
Ready to experience the Iron Range’s mountain biking magic? Here are some tips to get you started:
- Check out local bike shops like Bikes on Howard in Hibbing or Mesabi Recreation in Virginia for rentals, repairs, and local intel.
- Connect with the Iron Range Off-Road Cyclists club for insider tips and group rides.
- Consider combining your mountain biking trip with other cycling adventures like gravel biking or exploring scenic bike trails.
- Always check trail conditions before riding, especially after rain.
- Pack for variable weather – Minnesota’s climate can be as unpredictable as a technical descent!
The Iron Range is more than just a destination – it’s a journey through Minnesota’s natural beauty and industrial heritage. Every pedal stroke brings you closer to understanding what makes this region special. So, gear up, clip in, and prepare to discover the full beauty of the region. Your next great ride is waiting!
Read on for a full list of the best trails in the area
Map links and trail descriptions are included.
