![]() ![]() County roads intersecting Highway 61 invariably slope uphill away from the lake - some with steep grades. Roads that adjoin completed portions of the GGST provide an opportunity for longer and more challenging rides combining the trail and roads. Road riding is also possible on some of the paved county roads that intersect the GGST trail corridor. Just before the border, Grand Portage State Park features a new visitors center and a handicapped accessible trail along the Pigeon River, with decks providing views of the state's highest waterfall. The many attractions of Grand Portage include the National Park Visitors Center and heritage site. Magney State Park and the town of Grand Portage provide enjoyable biking. Side trips along lakeside paved roads at Croftville, Hovland, Judge C.R. It is generally relatively flat, except for the challenging climb of Mt. This portion of Highway 61 has wide shoulders and is much more lightly traveled than the highway southwest of Grand Marais. It features wide shoulders and minimal traffic (those in a hurry are traveling inland on the four-lane expressway), as well as many points of interest, including the town of Knife River and opportunities for eating, shopping and exploring Lake Superior's rocky shoreline.īeyond the northeast terminus of the trail in Grand Marais, the 40-mile stretch of Highway 61 to the Canadian border is an established bicycling destination. The 19-mile Scenic Highway between Duluth and Two Harbors is a remnant of the old Highway 61, which has become a prime destination for recreational bikers as well as those training for triathalons. ![]() Beyond the southwest and northeast ends of the GGST corridor are road biking destinations that have attracted bicyclists for many years. ![]() The GGTA plans to offer some 'detours' from the route (although the detours may involve some gravel riding) for those who would not feel comfortable riding on Highway 61's shoulders.īikers looking for longer distances and more challenging terrain have found many other opportunities along the North Shore. Click on MnDOT's project page HERE to learn more about the route, and find maps!Īs you'll find as you read the information below, from Duluth to the Canada border, there are some areas of USBR41 that may not feel safe for every cyclist. Paul to the Canadian border just beyond Grand Portage, USBR41/The North Star Route offers cyclists a combination of trails and connecting roads to complete this 315 mile route. Road riding on the North Shore. In 2016 MnDOT successfully sought designation of of a second United States Bicycle Route in Minnesota. The towns along the completed trail - Beaver Bay, Schroeder and Tofte - are visitor-friendly, with eateries, shops and galleries. Steep grades in both sections - especially in the Split Rock area - are attractive to recreational bikers looking for a challenge, but gentler grades are family-friendly. The two longer sections - Gooseberry to Silver Bay (17.2 miles) and Schroeder through Tofte to Lutsen Ski Hill Road - provide opportunities for recreational biking day outings. The GGST is an attraction in and of itself, although it will likely be several years before it is completed. The North Shore is increasingly attractive as a destination for recreational and hard-core bicyclists. ![]()
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