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Paul Bunyan State Trail:
Minnesota
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Description:
The Paul Bunyan State Trail follows the original railroad line built in 1893 by Burlington Northern and abandoned in 1983. It is now among the longest paved rail-trails in the nation, with over 57 miles of the trail now paved. Ultimately, the trail will link 16 communities between its beginning in Brainerd/Baxter and Lake Bemidji State Park to the north. The trail is for non-motorized uses only, including hiking, bicycling and inline skating. The exception to the non-motorized rule is snowmobiles are permitted when the trail is snow covered. The trail is also fully accessible for persons with disabilities. The Paul Bunyan State Trail showcases area pine forests, sparkling lakes, colorful wildflowers and wildlife. Trail users will pass along the shorelines of 21 lakes, through scenic wetlands and cross bridges over streams and rivers. Lodging, dining and other support services are available at convenient locations and in all price ranges. See the Trail Web Site (www.paulbunyantrail.com) for maps and additional information.
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Parking & Trail Access:
Vehicle parking is available in each community along the trail. In Baxter, where the Paul Bunyan Trail begins, a temporary parking lot is located at the trailhead. Other lots are located in Merrifield, Pequot Lakes, Pine River and Backus. See the Trail Web Site (www.paulbunyantrail.com) for maps and additional information.
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Reviews: [0 trail ratings]
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Good self supported trail
By Ron Gile on October 30, 2007
"My wife and I just completed a great trip. Rode from Baxter to Pine River, Walker, then Park Rapids on the Heartland Trail. We then reversed our direstion and returned to Baxter where the car was parked at the motel. The trails are great and if you don't camp there are places to stay in small cities along the way. The people were very helpful and every motel had a place to store the bikes. We plan on going back it was so much fun. Ron Gile"
PBunyan Trail is Worth a Second Ride
By Mike Maus on October 30, 2007
"My wife and I rode the Paul Bunyan trail from Nosswa to Brainerd and back last Summer (2006). This year, in September, we are returning with 20 or so folks, mostly from Colorado, to bike the whole trail as well as much of the Heartland Trail. The PB Trail is beautiful!"
Very poor self supported trail
By Ken Gummer on October 30, 2007
"Don't expect to camp on this trail, you may not find it. State maintained rest stops have had all the trash cans and picnic tables removed. Very poor services. I was very disappointed."