When I decided to move to the Twin Ports back in 2020, I wasn’t just looking for a new zip code; I was looking for a new way of life. The enthusiasm and dedication of all the runners I had met at Grandma’s combined with the beauty of the outdoors up here were some of the main reasons this area became my new home. Like many of you lining up for Grandma’s Marathon, I started on the road. But once I arrived here, I realized that the finish line at Canal Park isn’t the end of the road, but rather a gateway to a wilderness that has transformed me.
Since moving here, I’ve fallen head-over-heels for the dirt. I’ve traded most of my road miles for the rugged, root-filled challenges of trail running and ultramarathons. I’ve run more trail miles than I can count, and have participated in pretty much every trail race in the area. I’ve hiked vast stretches of the 310 mile Superior Hiking Trail, and more recently, I’ve tried my hand at the adrenaline-pumping world of mountain biking and the snowy grit of fat biking.
I’ve even found myself dangling off the side of a cliff. I’ve climbed at Shovel Point and Ely’s Peak, both considered easier climbs by the pros, but they still left me with shaky legs and a massive sense of accomplishment when I reached the top. Currently? I’m trying to figure out cross-country skiing. I’ll be honest: it’s a tough one. It requires coordination and grace, two things I generally lack. It’s been incredibly humbling. But that is exactly why this region is special. Whether you are an elite athlete or a total novice, the North Shore offers enough variety to keep you constantly learning, constantly exploring, and constantly outdoors.
The Infrastructure: A Master-Planned Wilderness
One of the biggest misconceptions about the North Shore is that these trails “just happened.” In reality, what we have here is a world-class feat of engineering and countless hours of volunteer work. This is purpose-built infrastructure designed to handle the elements, highlight all the area has to offer, and challenge athletes.
- The Gold Standard: Duluth is one of only a handful of cities globally designated as a Gold-Level Ride Center by the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA). This isn’t just a label; it represents millions of dollars in professional trail-building, specialized drainage, and sustainable design.
- The Connected City: The crown jewel of mountain biking is the Duluth Traverse, a 40 mile spine of singletrack that connects the entire city from end to end. When you include the legendary trail hubs it links together; such as the technical rocks of Piedmont, the flowing forests of Mission Creek, or the quiet beauty of Hartley Park, you have a massive, interconnected system of over 150 miles of singletrack. COGGS Info
- The SHT Legacy: The Superior Hiking Trail is maintained by a dedicated association that manages bridges, campsites, and trailheads across 310 miles of rugged forest, ensuring that even in the middle of the wilderness, you are supported by a world-class network. SHT Info
- The Economic Engine: While outdoor recreation is a $9.9 billion industry for Minnesota, the North Shore is the heart of it. The Arrowhead region generates a staggering $1.1 billion in annual leisure sales, and Duluth’s trail system alone brings in over $52 million to the local economy.
The Adventure Menu: Choose Your Pace
If living here has taught me anything, it’s that you can find adventure whether you have two hours or three days, and it can be found in any season.
Trail Running & Hiking
My personal journey started here. I went from running road marathons to training for ultras on the SHT. The elevation and technicality of the North Shore will change how you define a run, and possibly change your life.
3-Day Adventure: The High Peaks Thru-Hike.
Run or hike from Silver Bay to Finland (about 25 miles). This section contains the Crown Jewels of the SHT: Bean and Bear Lakes, Mt. Trudee, the Tettegouche High Falls, and Section 13.. You’ll climb massive ridges with views of the Sawtooth Mountains that look more like the Pacific Northwest than the Midwest, take in views of lady Superior, and hike along some beautiful waterfalls and cedar forests.
1-Day Adventure: Temperance River to Carlton Peak
Start at the lake level and run up the gorge, where the river has carved deep potholes into the rock. Follow the SHT, up to the summit of Carlton Peak for a panoramic view of Temperance State Park and Lake Superior. If you want to extend the run, head all the way to Sawbill Trailhead across some forested boardwalks.
2-Hour Adventure: Jay Cooke’s Swinging Bridge & Carlton Trail.
Cross the iconic swinging bridge over the St. Louis River. This picture perfect bridge is featured towards the end of the famed Voyageur 50 Miler, one of the oldest ultra marathons in the nation. The Carlton Trail takes you along the rugged, jagged slate riverbeds that make this park feel like another planet.
Gravel, Mountain, or Fat Biking
I’m a newcomer to two wheels. If you’re intimidated by mountain biking, don’t be. You can find endless gravel and the singletrack infrastructure here is built for progression.
3-Day Adventure: The Gravel Epic.
Head north of Duluth into the Superior National Forest near Two Harbors for thousands of miles of logging roads that host legendary races like the “Heck of the North.”
1-Day Adventure: The Duluth Traverse
The ultimate test. Ride the full 40 mile singletrack line from Chambers Grove to Lester Park. It’s an all-day epic that takes you through every forest type the region has to offer, and covers all of Duluth.
2-Hour Adventure: Mission Creek.
This is a flowstyle trail, featuring smooth, bermed corners and dozens of beautiful wooden bridges. With long climbs and descents It feels like a roller coaster through the woods.
Rock Climbing
If you want to see the geography of the North Shore from a different perspective, you have to go up. Putting in some vertical feet is a whole new type of adventure.
Duluth Climbers Coalition Info
3 Day Adventure: Shovel Point and Palisade Head
Head to Shovel Point at Tettegouche, where there are a variety of you can rappel down toward the crashing waves of Lake Superior and climb back up the cliff face.This was where I had my first outdoor climbing experience, and nothing motivates you like knowing that you either climb up or have to be rescued from the water. If you have some climbing experience (are comfortable with 5.10 climbs) head over to Palisade. There are numerous routes featuring a wide variety of climbing, as well as stunning views of Lake Superior and Shovel Point.
1 Day Adventure: Section 13
For a full day of less crowded climbing head to Section 13 just north of Tettegouche on County Road 6. This climb requires a one mile, but gorgeous hike to the top of the Section 13 cliffs. Prepare for not only a wide variety of climbs, but beautiful vistas.
2 Hour Adventure: Ely’s Peak
For a quick session, Ely’s Peak in Duluth offers some short (45-60’ climbs) with a mix of crack and face climbing. I’ve only dabbled in climbing, but had a lot of fun spending a day out at Ely’s.
Skiing (XC & Downhill)
This is my current frontier. I’m still in the falling down and mostly flailing through the snow phase, but there is no better place to be a beginner than here, surrounded by some of the best snow in the country. Winter seems to last for six months of the year, you might as well embrace it. Duluth Cross Country Ski Club Info
3-Day Adventure: Lutsen Mountains.
I’ll be honest. I haven’t downhill skied Lutsen, but have heard wonderful things from friends. And we stay there each year for the Superior Spring Trail Races and it’s always a blast. Anyway, with four peaks and an 825 foot vertical drop, this is the premier ski destination in the Midwest. The views of Lake Superior from the top of Moose Mountain are world-class.
1-Day Adventure: Spirit Mountain (Nordic & Alpine).
Right in Duluth’s backyard. You can get the best of both worlds here. Spend the morning on the downhill runs and the afternoon on the beautifully groomed Nordic tracks that overlook the St. Louis River.
2-Hour Adventure: Afterhours Trails (Brule, WI).
Just a short drive across the border, these trails offer some of the best classic and skate skiing in the region. It’s my neck of the woods, so it’s where I’ve been trying and mostly failing to get going.
Take to the Water: Kayak, Canoe, & SUP
If the trails are the bones of this region, the water is its soul. Whether you want the adrenaline of whitewater or the glassy calm of a sunrise paddle, we’ve got you covered.
The Brule River (Wisconsin).
A legendary paddling destination. The Upper Brule is a gentle, winding experience through cedar bogs, but for those looking for a bit more excitement, the Lower Brule offers Class I and II rapids that are perfect for kayakers looking to test their skills without needing a full expedition kit.
Jay Cooke State Park & The St. Louis River.
If you want the big water, this is it. The St. Louis River features some of the best whitewater rafting and kayaking in the Midwest. You can book guided whitewater tours that take you through the rugged gorge, a side of the park you simply can’t see from the hiking trails.
The Duluth Harbor & Barker’s Island.
For a more relaxed afternoon on a Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) or canoe, the protected waters of the harbor and the St. Louis River Estuary offer miles of calm paddling with views of the Aerial Lift Bridge and local wildlife.
Lake Superior Sea Kayaking.
For the experienced paddler, Gitchee Gummi is the ultimate challenge. Paddling along the cliffs of Split Rock or through the sea caves of the Apostle Islands (a short drive away along the south shore) is a bucket-list experience.
How to Jump In: Your North Shore Starter Kit
You don’t have to figure this out alone. The best part of the North Shore isn’t just the trails; it’s the community that loves and maintains them.
- Find Your Hub: If you’re not sure to start, check out a local tour/adventure store such as Zenith Adventures. It is more than just a spot for gear and adventures; it’s a community hub where you can get expert advice on where to go and what to try next.
- Gear Up Locally: Before you hit the SHT, stop by Trailfitters in Canal Park. They are the premier local outfitter for high-quality outdoor apparel and adventure gear. And they also put on the Trailfitters Challenge each June-July, they’re a wealth of knowledge on the local trail scene.
- Join the Pack: If you’re a runner looking to transition to the trails, connect with a local company such as Duluth Running Co. (DRC). They offer community runs and a wealth of knowledge on local trail conditions.
- Get Digital: Connect with local groups like DuFTA,, COGGS , Duluth Climbers Coalition, or the Superior Hiking Trail Association. These groups are incredibly welcoming and are a phenomenal place to go for advice.
I moved here because I wanted a life where adventure wasn’t a far off vacation, but a usual Tuesday afternoon. Whether I’m training for my next ultra on the SHT, exploring new trails, paddling along the shoreline, or laughing at myself while I try to stay upright on skis, this region keeps me curious.
Grandma’s Marathon might be the reason you’re here this weekend, but the spirit of the North Shore with the grit of the climb, the spray of the lake, and the silence of the pine forests, is the reason you’ll keep coming back.
Ready to explore? I’ll see you on the trails (or in the snow—I’ll be the one trying to figure out my skis). Need more ideas or info, reach out to @superiorsingletrack