Explore the best rated trails in Two Harbors, MN, whether you're looking for an easy walking trail or a bike trail like the DWP Trail and C.J. Ramstad/North Shore State Trail . With more than 20 trails covering 1206 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.
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.
Signage to trailheads is poor or non-existent. Although this trail is listed as wheelchair accessible, it is not a smooth trail and gravel is fairly rough. I did not see any asphalt. The first mile or so from the western trailhead at Becks Road is shown on the on-site map as mountain biking and mostly OK for hybrid bikes but rough. The connection with the Willard Munger Trail has no signage at junction
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.
Outside of Ashland, the tarmac ends. Some mud due to recent rains, but nothing the all terrain tires couldn’t handle. Washboard at the intersections. No other cyclists encountered. Just side by side ATVs, but actually light traffic mid week. I’d do it again.
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.
It sounds like the trail is partly rerouted due to "slumping" that undermines the trails stability. But they're actively making progress toward a permanent solution.
https://landmarkwi.org/brownstone-trail-updates/
I found the trail conditions to be in good condition but I should say I did not do the entire trail. I would alert others to the fact that this is not a rail trail so expect a bit more small to moderate hill climbing.
Rode from Ely to Mountain Iron. Loved the scenery and the history. Towns are great! Will be back to ride the rest!
Enjoyed the trail for about 30 miles coming Grand Rapids. Loved the change in landscape and the floating bridge. The biggest issues is the signing is poor when coming into each city. Sometimes the arch is in the city and the trail goes off another way. Need better signing.
The reroute of this trail is ridiculous & dangerous: you walk along a county road, not to mention misleading for visitors (like us). We saw another couple & a family just as bewildered as us. Smells fishy
We biked the roughly 23 mile trail that connects Tower to Ely and it is absolutely spectacular! The condition of the trail is perfect and the scenery is so beautiful! I am sure the rest of the 90+ miles of this trail are amazing too! Can’t wait to explore more-I’ve bike all over the country and this trail is second to none… Biking friends-Put this trail on your bucket list! Come to NE Minnesota!
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