Trail to Town: Discover Duluth, Minnesota's Trails, Breweries, and Local Hotspots
Welcome to the next chapter of our "Trail-to-Town" series, where we dive into the best riding destinations across the country, blending great trails and the local culture. This time, we're heading to Duluth, Minnesota—a city known for its rugged terrain, cycling community, and a growing reputation as an outdoor lover’s paradise. Duluth offers an ideal mix of scenic trails, local bike shops, and a thriving brewery scene, making it a must-visit for anyone who lives their life around two wheels.
Best Trails
Piedmont-Brewer Park Loop
The Piedmont-Brewer Park Loop offers a challenging yet rewarding ride with panoramic views of Lake Superior. This trail system is known for its rocky terrain, technical sections, and flowy singletrack, making it perfect for intermediate to advanced riders. The loop connects Piedmont and Brewer Park, giving you a taste of Duluth's beauty as you wind through dense forests and open ridgelines. The trail's proximity to the city makes it an accessible option for a quick ride or a full day of exploration.
Duluth Traverse
Spanning nearly 40 miles across the city, the Duluth Traverse is a ride for mountain bikers of all skill levels. This extensive trail system connects various parks and neighborhoods, offering a unique way to experience Duluth's diverse landscapes—from cliff outcrops to dense woodlands. Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride or an all-day adventure, the Duluth Traverse has something for everyone. Its interconnected trails allow for flexibility in planning your route, making it easy to tailor your ride to your preferences.
Mission Creek
For those seeking a more remote experience, the Mission Creek trail system is a hidden gem located in West Duluth. This area features a mix of flowy singletrack, challenging climbs, and thrilling descents, all set against the backdrop of the scenic St. Louis River. The trails at Mission Creek are well-maintained and offer a variety of loops, making it a great spot for both casual riders and those looking for something more. The surroundings and less crowded trails make it a favorite among locals.
Lift Access
For those seeking lift-accessed riding, Spirit Mountain is the spit in the region! With an impressive network of downhill trails, this mountain offers something for riders of all levels. From flowy greens to techy blacks, Spirit Mounntain’s lift-access provides easy access to some of the most thrilling descents in the region. It;s also home to the recently opened Ski Hut Adventure Center, making it convenient to rent bikes or grab any last-minute gear before hitting the trails.
Best Places to Eat
O.M.C. Smokehouse
Located in the heart of the Lincoln Park Craft District, O.M.C. Smokehouse is a must-visit for barbecue lovers. The menu features a variety of smoked meats, from brisket to ribs, all served with house-made sauces that add a unique flavor to each dish.
Pizza Lucé
Pizza Lucé is a favorite spot in downtown Duluth, known for its creative pizzas. Located just a short distance from the Lakewalk trail and Canal Park, it's a perfect post-ride meal or late night slice. Whether you're in the mood for a classic pizza or something more adventurous, Pizza Lucé has it all.
At Sara’s Table Chester Creek Café
Nestled in the Chester Park neighborhood, At Sara’s Table is a local favorite known for its farm-to-table menu and cozy atmosphere. This café offers a variety of dishes made with organic and locally sourced ingredients, making it a great choice for a healthy, post-ride meal. The menu includes a range of options, from hearty breakfasts to savory dinners, all served with a focus on sustainability and community.
Breweries Worth the Ride
Bent Paddle Brewing Co.
Located in the Lincoln Park Craft District, Bent Paddle Brewing Co. is a staple in Duluth's craft beer scene. Known for its flagship beer, the Bent Hop Golden IPA, this brewery offers a variety of craft brews that are perfect after a day on the trails. The brewery’s taproom is a popular hangout for locals and visitors alike, offering a laid-back atmosphere and a great selection of rotating beers.
Ursa Minor Brewing
Just a stone’s throw from Bent Paddle, Ursa Minor Brewing is another must-visit spot in Duluth’s brewery lineup. This brewery is known for its wood-fired pizzas and live music, creating a chill and inviting environment for all. The outdoor patio, complete with fire pits, is the perfect place to relax with a cold beer after a ride.
Hoops Brewing
Situated in Canal Park, Hoops Brewing offers a wide variety of craft beers in a spacious, industrial-style taproom. With over 30 beers on tap, Hoops Brewing allows you to customize your experience by offering flights of your favorite styles. Its location near the Lakewalk trail makes it an ideal stop after a leisurely ride along Lake Superior.
Club Ride Favorite:
Fitger’s Brewhouse, located right off the Lakewalk in the historic Fitger’s Brewing Complex is a must. They’ve got a simple but great menu—everything from juicy burgers to fresh-caught Lake Superior fish. Plus, their craft beers are what keep us coming back. Whether you’re starving after a long ride or just want to kick back with a brew, Fitger’s is a perfect spot to chill and refuel.
Bike Shops While You’re Here
Ski Hut
Ski Hut, with multiple locations, is a cornerstone of Duluth’s biking community and a Club Ride Apparel retailer. Its newly opened Adventure Center in West Duluth at the base of Spirit Mountain serves as a “one-stop-rental-shop,” offering everything from bike rentals to gear and accessories. With decades of experience, Ski Hut is known for its knowledgeable staff and commitment to customer service, making it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re in need of a quick tune-up or looking to upgrade your gear, Ski Hut has you covered.
Continental Ski & Bike
Located near the University of Minnesota Duluth, Continental Ski & Bike is another top-notch shop in the city. This locally-owned business has been serving the Duluth area for over 60 years, offering a wide range of bikes, apparel, and accessories. The shop is known for its dedication to the local biking community and great selection of gear. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, Continental Ski & Bike provides expert advice and services to ensure you have the best possible experience on the trails.
Other Things to Do
Canal Park
Canal Park is the heart of Duluth’s waterfront and a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. This bustling area offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge and the Duluth Ship Canal. It's also a great spot to start or end a ride, with easy access to the Lakewalk trail and stunning views of Lake Superior.
Enger Tower
For a panoramic view of Duluth and Lake Superior, head to Enger Tower. This historic tower, located in Enger Park, offers beautiful views and is a popular lunch spot. The park surrounding the tower features beautiful gardens, picnic areas, and additional trails to explore, making it a great destination for a post-ride outing.
Lakewalk Trail
The Lakewalk is a scenic trail that runs along the shore of Lake Superior, offering great views of the water and the city skyline. This multi-use trail is perfect for a leisurely ride or a relaxing stroll, with plenty of benches and picnic spots along the way. The Lakewalk also connects to several of Duluth’s main attractions, including Canal Park and Leif Erikson Park, making it an ideal route for exploring the city.
To Wrap It Up
Duluth, with its blend of trails, fun brewery scene, and “Minnesota nice”, offers an unforgettable experience for any rider. Whether you're exploring the scenic Duluth Traverse or enjoying a post-ride beer at Bent Paddle, this city has something for everyone.
