The Cut Face Creek to Grand Marais segment offers a scenic 3.5-mile stretch of paved trail along the Lake Superior shoreline.
Starting at the Cut Face Creek Wayside (open seasonally), the path hugs the lakeside with wide-open views of Superior’s ever-changing waters before winding north toward the harbor town of Grand Marais.
This segment is relatively easy, making it perfect for a leisurely bike ride, walk, or run while taking in the beauty of the North Shore.
Highlights include:
- Amenities at the Cut Face Creek Wayside
- Panoramic views of Lake Superior
- Cross the Fall River Bridge
- George Morrison memorial (near North House Folk School)
- Access to the Downtown Grand Marais harbor front, shops, restaurants, and lodging.
Trail Details
- Length: ~4.8 miles (one way)
- Surface: Fully paved. Built in 2021
- Incline: gentle inclines. Some inclines may be challenging for users of wheelchairs and mobility devices.
Parking & Amenities
Parking
- Cut Face Creek Wayside – open seasonally
- Grand Marais Recreation Area (campground)
- Downtown Grand Marais
Please Note: Park only in designated areas and avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle. Be sure to acquire the required parking passes from the MN DNR when entering State Parks.
Amenities
Restrooms
- Cut Face Creek Wayside – Seasonal vaulted toilet
- Grand Marais City Hall Building – flushable toilets open year-round.
Bike Repair Stations
- Visit Cook County Visitor Center
- Grand Marais YMCA (located off the trail)
Camping
- Grand Marais Rec Park
Picnic Areas
- Cut Face Creek Wayside (seasonal)
- Grand Marais Rec Park pavilion
- Downtown Grand Marais harbor front picnic tables
Visit our Sponsors:
- Visit Cook County Visitor Center (bike repair station)
- Best Western Plus Superior Inn
Accessibility
Cut Face Creek Wayside to Grand Marais – 5.1 miles
This trail was built in 2021, so riders currently enjoy smooth surfaces. There are gentle inclines that users of wheelchairs and mobility devices may find challenging.
The flattest part of the trail is just before you descend into the town of Grand Marais – from Fall River Road to the Lake County Veterinary Clinic.
Maps
Images
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- Family biking on the trail in Grand Marais
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- Family biking on the trail in Grand Marais
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- Fall River Bridge
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- Two bicyclists on the Fall River Bridge, Gitchi-Gami Trail.
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- Two bicyclists on the Fall River Bridge, Gitchi-Gami Trail.
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- Two bicyclists on the Fall River Bridge, Gitchi-Gami Trail.
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- Fall River Bridge
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- view of Lake Superior from the Fall River bridge
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- Bicyclists on the Fall River Bridge
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- two people walking on the Gitchi-Gami Trail near the Cut Face Wayside
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- Gitchi-Gami Trail at the Cut Face Wayside
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- Gitchi-Gami Trail at the Cut Face Wayside
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- Gitchi-Gami Trail at the Cut Face Wayside
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- Gitchi-Gami Trail at the Cut Face Wayside
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- Gitchi-Gami Trail at the Cut Face Wayside
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- Gitchi-Gami Trail at the Cut Face Wayside
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- Gitchi-Gami Trail at the Cut Face Wayside
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- Gitchi-Gami Trail at the Cut Face Wayside
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- Gitchi-Gami Trail at the Cut Face Wayside
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- Gitchi-Gami Trail at the Cut Face Wayside
Videos
Sponsors
- Best Western Plus Superior Inn
- Visit Cook County Visitor Center
- North Shore Explorer Guide
- Northern Wilds Magazine
- WTIP Community Radio
Technical Specifications
Coming Soon!
Plans for Future Development
Several segments of the Gitchi-Gami State Trail have been completed, totaling over 36 miles. 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. Much of the trail will be located in abandoned segments or right-of-way on Highway 61, while other segments will allow you to sample a diversity of the North Shore’s varied environments.
