What is the Gitchi-Gami State Trail?
The Gitchi-Gami State Trail is a paved, non-motorized recreation trail that follows the spectacular North Shore of Lake Superior in northeastern Minnesota. It provides a world-class riding experience for cyclists, walkers, runners, and wheelchair users alike.
Currently, the Gitchi-Gami State Trail includes five completed segments that offer a mix of scenic Lake Superior Views, forested stretches, waterfalls, and easy access to popular destinations. These sections connect communities, parks, and attractions that make the North Shore such a vibrant and accessible place to explore — whether you’re out for a family ride, a weekend adventure, or a scenic stop along the way.
The trail allows riders to explore the towns of Two Harbors, Beaver Bay, Silver Bay, Tofte, Schroeder, Lutsen, and Grand Marais by bicycle.
Ride through three of Minnesota’s most beautiful state parks – Gooseberry Falls, Split Rock Lighthouse, and Temperance River. Soon, the Trail will connect to Tettegouche State Park.
When complete, it will stretch 88 miles from Two Harbors to Grand Marais. With its breathtaking views, safe pathways, and easy access to parks and towns, it’s no wonder the Gitchi-Gami State Trail is recognized as one of the Midwest’s premier biking destinations. Learn more about activities and things to do on and near the Trail.
While the Minnesota DNR builds and maintains the trail, the non-profit Gitch-Gami Trail Association (GGTA) works behind the scenes to support the advocacy, growth, awarness, and fundraising necessary for it’s success and continuation.
Trail Segments
The Gitchi-Gami State Trail currently conisists of five segments.
- Two Harbors
- Silver Creek Cliff
- Gooseberry Falls – Silver Bay
- Schroeder – Lutsen
- Cut Face Creek to Grand Marais
When complete, the trail will be an 86-mile paved trail for non-motorized use, connecting Two Harbors to Grand Marais along the North Shore of Lake Superior.
Each segment offers is own unique scenery and character!
History of the Gitchi-Gami State Trail
The vision for the Gitchi-Gami State Trail began in the 1990s as a way to create a continuous paved trail along Lake Superior’s North Shore. Inspired by other great rail-trail and scenic byway projects, community leaders, outdoor enthusiasts, and state partners came together to make it a reality.
With each new segment, the Gitchi-Gami State Trail brings us closer to connecting the shore’s towns, parks, and natural landmarks with a world-class trail system.
For a more comprehensive history of the trail, read more here.
Future of the Gitchi-Gami State Trail
The Gitchi-Gami State Trail is a work in progress—and an exciting one! When complete, it will stretch more than 80 miles, creating a continuous paved path from Two Harbors to Grand Marais.
Cyclists, walkers, and runners will be able to experience the entire North Shore by trail, moving seamlessly through small towns, state parks, and breathtaking stretches of Lake Superior shoreline.
Every new segment brings the vision closer to reality. Future connections will link beloved destinations like Gooseberry Falls, Split Rock Lighthouse, Tettegouche, Cascade River, and beyond. The result will be one of the most scenic long-distance paved trails in the country, offering both short day trips and multi-day adventures.
The Gitchi-Gami Trail Association, together with the Minnesota DNR, continues to champion the trail’s development so that future generations can explore the North Shore in a safe, sustainable, and unforgettable way.
Bike across Minnesota!
The Gitchi-Gami State Trail is a featured segment of U.S. Bicycle Route 41 (USBR 41), also known as the North Star Bicycle Route — a nationally designated route that connects St. Paul, Minnesota to the Canadian border.
The North Star Bike Route links existing roads and trails across Minnesota.