Northwest Mountain Biking
Many of the most popular mountain bike destinations in Northwestern Minnesota can be found in the many state parks and forests. This area offers more twists and turns and a greater chance to come across wildlife while rolling down a hill or along a hard-packed singletrack. While the trails may not be as well developed they have more of a wilderness experience. The terrain is a mixture of granite in the St. Cloud area to grasses along the Red River Valley and the forest floors of the state parks and forests.
Paul Bunyan State Forest, Akeley/Park Rapids/Bemidji Many miles/loops Intermediate:
Numerous trails run through this system, vary widely from loam to dirt to sandy soil. Terrain is rolling hills. Motorcyclist maintain trails. Endless possibilities.
Although this trail is not well-marked for bikes, a good map and compass can provide the necessary tools to use this scenic trail. The twists, turns, climbs and descents provide plenty of challenges, but there area sections suitable to the less experienced rider as well. Combination of wide grassy trail , gravel road, and hard-packed singletrack.
Lake Bemidji State Park, Bemidji 5 miles 218-755-3843
Beginner to advanced:
Park has much to offer with dirt and packed grass trails. System is well maintained. Forested terrain has some challenging sections.
Movil Maze Trail, Bemidji 8 miles 218-759-0164
This system lives up to its name so bring a compass and use the map of the area. Several spurs branch off this trail. The trail is a combination of soft, muddy sections and dirt singletrack.
French Rapids Ski Area, Brainerd 800-450-2838
Advanced:
Singletrack and fire roads. The very hilly terrain provides a real workout. Lots of trails.
Pillsbury State Forest, Brainerd 218-833-8710
Mixture of gravel roads, grass and dirt. Trail winds and twist through forest and past lakes. Enjoyable, rolling terrain. May get crowded on weekends.
Spider Lake Trail, Brainerd 7.9 miles 218-335-8600
Beginner to advanced:
Norway Trail, Bycke 4.6 mile loop
Intermediate: Absolute singletrack. Ends at BWCA
Maplelag, Callaway 800-654-7711 Many trails available.
Beginner to advanced:
Mixture of challenging singletrack and grassy double track. Great place to ride and stay.
North Country National Scenic Trail, Cass Lake 68 miles 218-335-8600Trail runs through the Chippewa National Forest. Call for up to 12 maps of the area.
Glacial Ridge Trail, Glenwood 19.7 miles 866-634-3636
Travels through lake country.
Lake Bronson State Park, Lake Bronson 5 miles 218-754-2200
Beginner to intermediate:
Good variety of trails, loops allow for different choices. Mixture of grass and gravel. Terrain combinindex.htmle forest and prairie.
Milaca City Trails, Milaca 14 miles one way
Moderate to advanced:
Located near the Rum River this singletrack offers a variety of terrain. Fall ride is better because there is less mud and the forest colors are at their peak. Worthwhile trip.
Hayes Lake State Park, Roseau 5 miles 218-425-750
Beginner: Grassy trail on level terrain. Located in a wooded area.
Quarry Park, St. Cloud 2.2 miles 320-255-6172 Intermediate:
Doubletrack-mixture of gravel , dirt and grass. Some granite outcroppings. Runs through a heavily wooded area. A few sections are fairly technical.
