Greater Duluth Trail System

Easily the best “trail system” in the state, with punishing climbs and breathtaking descents overlooking Lake Superior and well beyond, with big thanks to COGGS.

DULUTH—With a big, huge nod, and then additional even bigger nod to COGGS (the volunteer bike organization known as Cyclists of Gitchee Gumee Shores, who help create and maintain this amazing trail system), the greater Duluth area easily boasts well more than 50 miles of off-road singletrack to meet and match every level skill level.

From the deep wooded climbs of the Lester Park trail system far to the north/east of the city, to the wicked-fast flow of Mission Creek’s bogs, to the trails outside Jay Cooke State Park (a jewel in its own right), the trails of Duluth are beyond a dream.

For the last two years I’ve taken part in the “Race Across Duluth,” which rolls over some 45 miles of these trails by connecting them all, and I get giddy every time I think about it. Once you traverse across the rugged and technical landscape just below Duluth’s Observation Hill neighborhood, overlooking Lake Superior and Park Point, you’ll be pinching yourself too.