Explore the best rated trails in Federal Dam, MN, whether you're looking for an easy walking trail or a bike trail like the Paul Bunyan State Trail and Soo Line Trail (Northern Route) . With more than 10 trails covering 764 miles you're bound to find a perfect trail for you. Click on any trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
While a bit rougher than the southern half or the western part of the midland trail; the Paul Bunyan is a very good experience. I used Soulshine cycles In Walker to shuttle me and my luggage. They are a top notch service and I highly recommend them to you. While the pavement is a bit rougher in some locations it was not dangerous or distracting . My late September trip hit a weather window most people could die for. L
Started at Crow wing State Park headed north. The first five mile through the park are exceptional. Lots of curves and ups and downs. Most enjoyable. Other wise it is a classic Rails to Trail. Straight and gentle grades through forested and farmed lands with lakes to view along the way. Close to roads but mostly with screen of forests between the trail and the roads, The section from Pine River north to Hackensack is freshly paved and glass-.smooth. They’ve done a wonderful job. And I highly recommend making a trip to ride that section
Rode the trail the week of August 11, 2025....rode from Virginia to Biwabik, Virginia to Chisholm, Hibbing to Keewatin, and Tower to Ely. Tower to Ely was by far the part of the trail that was in the best condition...the others were a bit rough in spots. Tower to Ely had a couple good climbs in them. Thought the signage for the trail could be better. There are places to go to the bathroom along the way, although not always that frequent. However, if it's a hot day...make sure you have enough water as there are no spots to fill up.
We loved biking this trail. We biked from Akeley to Dorset and back. If camping, it’s easy from Akeley City Park and Campground. It’s located next to the trail and although we stayed only one night,they allowed us to keep our camper van there during our ride and clean up afterwards before we headed on our way. The couple who run the facility could not have been nicer. And don’t miss the museum in town.
Rode the trail from Tower to Ely and back. The best ride I have done. Smooth path and curvy, hilly route. Great ride! Next day planned to ride from Hibbing to Naswauk. I made it to Keewatin and turned around. Trail is cracked, has quite a few roots and lots of weeds. The trail passes through in a couple of small town streets and they were horribly cracked and rough. I then ride from Hibbing to Chisholm and back. That was quite a bit better. 5 stars for Tower ride 1 star for Kewatin ride.
This is not, I believe, a flat, converted railroad line. It is hilly, but flying down the hills is part of the fun. The blacktop can be bumpy with tree roots. You'll pass abandoned open-pit mines, now filled with gorgeous, turquoise water. The trail is full of the proud history of the iron mining that helped win World War II. Some of the tiny towns have seen better days, but all are part of the story. Would have appreciated more ice cream shops and cute lunch places along the way. Bar food too often was the only option. Can't wait for the final leg, Tower to Ely, to be completed (2026?). Greatly recommend in Hibbing the Red Rock Hotel. Newly renovated, reasonably priced, and HIGHLY accommodating to bikers with friendly, personalized service.
We rode the Walker Loop, a great 22 mile loop that includes the Paul Bunyan, Shingobee and Heartland Trails. Some steep hills but not a problem on our e-bikes. The trail was in good condition. The next day we rode the Paul Bunyan north from Walker to LaPorte. The trail definitely had some rough spots, but it was all worth it when we happened to find a super cute coffee shop/lunch spot about a block off the trail. There are no signs so you won’t expect to see this little gem in this tiny little town. It’s called The Door. I was told the city would not allow them to put a sign along the trail!
Rode for 12.5 miles south from Jenkins and back. While the route is great - a typical rails-to-trails with the exception that it’s asphalt paved - the one distracting factor is the large expansion cracks. Kerthump. Kerthump. Kerthump. That being the case, I feel a wide tired bicycle, with slightly under inflated tires might be most comfortable. Otherwise, a great ride. Lunched in Nisswa.
The trail from Ely to Tower is simply the best. The smooth pavement, the beautiful forest gives the rider a wonderful experience. You feel you should expect wildlife of any kind could pop out from the trees.
Great bathroom at Tower's trail access.
The Gilbert to Chisholm ride had more 'bumps' but still provided a neat, scenic trip. Each mining town shared their proud history in some type of display.
Black Bear Bakery in Chisholm made the best donuts.
I am eager to see the new trail updates later in summer of 2025 and 2026 between Embarrass and Tower so the trail will be complete.
Do your homework before riding, the picture accompanying the trail description is misleading. ATVs are allowed on some sections of the trail.
We started in Bemidji with the intent to ride to Hackensack on road bikes. Hit a large bump just south of Laporte (going 18-19 mph). Ended up with a broken collar bone and fractured elbow in two places. Still a great trail.
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