Cyclist jumps off a wooden ramp in a forest trail.

Mountain Biking

These are the rides on every biker's bucket list. With no crowds and over 2,000 miles of potential rides, Cook County is a biker’s paradise.

From the paved Gitchi Gami State Trail that winds along Lake Superior’s shore, to white-knuckle singletrack, to endless backcountry roads threading the Superior National Forest. Biking in Cook County, Minnesota is a ride you will never forget and has a trail for everyone.

visit cook country biking maps

June 28 2025

Lutsen99er Mountain Bike Race

A 19, 39, and 99-mile mountain bike race.

Race Info

Mountain biker in pink gear navigating a forest trail.
Forest climber tackling a sunlit rock face, surrounded by tall trees.

Heartbreak Hill Loop

Over the river and through the woods is the best way to summarize this trail. In the first few miles, you gain a good deal of elevation. This scenic loop crosses the Temperance River multiple times, and it’s recommended to take the opportunity to park the bike and take a short hike along the river.

Terrain

This ride blends gravel road adventure with a taste of the Gitchi Gami paved bike trail. Hybrid or mountain bikes are recommended. Be aware that the Sawbill Trail is a well-traveled road and a main route into the inland lakes – be cautious of vehicle traffic.

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Details  
Distance 18 Miles
Estimated Time 2-5 Hours
Difficulty Intermediate
Mountain bikers on a forest trail under dense tree canopy.

Onion River Road

Easy, family-friendly ride with several fun side-trip opportunities. This light traffic gravel road is a gradual climb through a mixed and scenic forest. Please remember riding on the Superior Hiking Trail is not allowed.

Terrain

This ride blends gravel road adventure with a taste of the Gitchi Gami paved bike trail. Hybrid or mountain bikes are recommended. Be aware that the Sawbill Trail is a well-traveled road and a main route into the inland lakes – be cautious of vehicle traffic.

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Details  
Distance 7 miles round trip*
Estimated Time 30 minutes - 1 hour
Difficulty Easy

*out and back trail

Cyclists ride through a wooded trail, surrounded by trees and dappled sunlight.

Honeymoon Loop + Spur Trail

A classic Northwoods ride, the Pancore/Honeymoon Loop will give you a taste of the ruggedness of the area. Rated intermediate due to distance but mild for the route.

Terrain

Generally smooth gravel with a few rockier sections on the Pancore Lake Road. Recommended to use a mountain bike but, with caution, a hybrid bike is capable.

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Details  
Distance 20 miles
Estimated Time 3-5 hours
Difficulty Intermediate
Forest path surrounded by tall, green pine trees.

Britton Peak Trails

A series of single-track mountain bike adventures await discovery.

Terrain

Narrow single-track trails. Mountain bike required.

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Details  
Distance 5.5 miles of trail
Estimated Time 1-2 hours
Difficulty Intermediate-Advanced

Pike Lake Loop + Spur Trail

After a rainstorm, sections of this trail can be very muddy. There are many spur trails and roads, pay close attention to remain on the main trail. Excellent wildlife viewing.

Terrain

Gravel and primitive minimum maintenance road. Mountain bike recommended.

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Details  
Distance 22 miles
Estimated Time 2-4 hours
Difficulty Intermediate-Advanced

Gitchi-Gami State Trail | Schroeder – Lutsen Resort

A paved recreational trail to provide a safe corridor for bicyclists, in-line skaters, joggers and walkers along Highway 61, paralleling the North Shore of Lake Superior. The trail can be broken into segments or done in full.

Terrain

Paved multi-use path offers a safe route along the highway but crosses multiple private driveways. Travel with caution then approaching high traffic zones. Any bike can be used on this trail but ideal for road biking.

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Details  
Distance 10.41 miles each way
Estimated Time 1-5 hours
Difficulty Easy

Backcountry & Forest Service Roads

Countless backcountry gravel roads and trails wind through the Superior National Forest and into some of the most breathtaking country accessible by bike. Pick up an official Cook County Highway Map or the official Superior National Forest Visitor Map for a comprehensive list of all roads and trails.

Where to rent bikes, get the gear, take guided tours and more.

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Skiers glide through snowy forest trail in winter setting.