The Best Hiking Trails in Duluth, MN in 2024
Duluth has some amazing hiking opportunities. From Chester creek and Park point to Elys Peak Trail and Jay Cooke State Park. This is one of my favorite things to do in Duluth.
Really, all the hiking trials in Duluth are amazing. Whether you are looking for a day hike or an overnight adventure, you’ll fall in love!
Elys Peak Trail
Difficulty: Strenuous
Length: 2 Miles
Trailhead: 123rd Ave W.
Have you ever hiked up Ely’s Peak on the Duluth Hiking Trails in MN? Let me tell you, it’s a must-do if you’re looking for some adventure! The trail offers stunning panoramic views of the city and Lake Superior, and the overlook is every hiker’s dream.
Don’t forget to look for the old concrete building foundations from the early 20th century on your way up. It’s a cool part of history.
Plus, if you’re looking for more hiking options, the Park Point Trail is just a short drive away. So grab your hiking boots, pack some snacks, and get ready for a good leg workout. Trust me, the views are totally worth it.
Lakewalk
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 8 Miles
Trailhead: Canal Park
Located in the heart of Duluth, Minnesota, the Lakewalk is a must-visit destination for travelers and locals alike. This picturesque trail spans for miles along the shores of Lake Superior, offering stunning views of the waterfront and nearby attractions such as the Lift Bridge.
As you wander along the paved path, you’ll encounter peaceful green spaces such as the Rose Garden, perfect for taking a relaxing break.
Whether you’re looking for a sunny place to bike or jog, or simply want to soak in the beauty of the downtown Duluth area, the Lakewalk is the perfect place to do so.
A visit to this popular spot guarantees an unforgettable experience filled with serene nature and breathtaking lake superior views.
Hartley Nature Center Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 3.5 Miles
Trailhead: 3001 Woodland Ave
Have you ever checked out the Hartley Nature Center Loop? It’s a sweet spot for any hiker or biker, whether you’re into mountain biking or just cruising around.
The nature center itself is pretty chill, with all sorts of cool exhibits and educational stuff. But the real magic is the loops. They’ve got a few different trails to choose from, so you can make things as challenging or as easy as you want.
Grab a map at the visitors center and pick a route that sounds fun. Or download it to your phone!
If you’re a biker, there are some killer downhill runs that’ll get your heart pounding.
For hikers,
And if you’re just out for a leisurely stroll, you’ll love the peaceful woods and scenic views.
Lester River Trail and Amity East
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1-7 Miles
Trailhead: Lester River Rd
Have you ever checked out the Lester River Trail in Amity East? Let me tell you, it’s a great spot for a hike or a ride on your mountain bike.
The trail follows the Lester River and there’s even a waterfall to check out. But that’s not even the best part – the breathtaking views from the top of the trail give you a killer view of Lake Superior.
Start off by crossing a foot bridge over Lester River and walk east for 50 yards until you reach the creek. Turn right and follow the trail to the bridge and you’ll reach the trail map.
It’s one of the most beautiful sights you’ll ever see. Plus, if you’re a hiker, you’ll be happy to know that the trail is pretty easy and not too steep.
But watch out for those mountain bikers – they come flying through!
Willard Munger Trail: Duluth to Carlton
Have you heard about the Willard Munger State Trail from Duluth to Carlton? If you’re looking for a great place to go for a ride or a walk, this trail is a must-visit.
With the trail nicely paved, it’s perfect for bikers and hikers. It’s 63 miles long, so you can take your time and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
Superior Hiking Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 300 Miles
Trailhead: Rose Garden Trailhead – London Rd. and S. 14th Ave. E. From I-35, take 21st Ave. E.
For the outdoor enthusiasts that love to hike, the Superior Hiking Trail in Northern Minnesota is another trail that is simply breathtaking. The trail boasts over 300 miles of hiking with spectacular views of Lake Superior and its surrounding wilderness.
The trail starts at the Canadian border and ends at the Wisconsin border, where hikers can venture into Duluth Section for more incredible scenery.
There is a great section in Duluth you can do too. My favorite is to park at the Rose Garden Parking lot at London Road and S 14th Ave. They offer 3 hour parking which is perfect for a day hike.
The Superior Hiking Trail provides a wide range of terrains from easy to challenging, which caters to hikers of different levels. For nature lovers seeking a challenging and exciting experience, the Superior Hiking Trail is a must-hike!
Lincoln Park Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 2 Miles
Trailhead: Lincoln Park Dr
The Lincoln Park Trail in Duluth is a great spot for a hike or mountain bike ride. The park trail winds through some seriously lush forest, and every now, and then you get an epic view of the city below.
The hike isn’t too tough, so it’s perfect for all levels of hiker.
But don’t worry, if you’re a bit more experienced, this trail takes you up and down some inclines that’ll get you sweating. And watch out for those mountain bikers! They’re always flying by, so make sure you keep an eye out.
Starting at the playground, walk up Lincoln Park drive and cross Miller Creek. Follow the trail around past to waterfalls, and Elephant Rock!
Oh, and there’s a legit waterfall on this trail, too.
Bagley Nature Center Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 1.6 Miles
Trailhead: 631 W St Marie St, Duluth, MN 55811
The Bagley Nature Center Trail is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts who love to hike.
Hikers can enjoy the scenic views of the Lake Superior and the wildlife that inhabits the region. The trail is well-maintained and provides easy to moderate hiking opportunities for both beginners and experienced hikers.
The Bagley Nature Center Trail is a part of the superior hiking trail, which is a further attraction for hikers who want to experience a challenging and rewarding hike.
Chester Park Trail
Difficulty: Strenuous
Length: 4 Miles
Trailhead: 1329 E 4th Street.
So, have you ever been to Chester Creek Park Trail? If not, you’re missing out! This hidden gem in Duluth offers some of the best hiking trails around. With Chester Creek flowing alongside the park trail, you’ll feel right at home in nature. The trail is a moderate four-mile hike through Chester Park, making it accessible for different skill levels.
The best part? The waterfall at the end of the trail. It’s the perfect spot for a photo op, a picnic, or just to sit and take in the view. Trust me, this is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Duluth.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a newbie, the Chester Creek Park Trail has great views everyone will love. So grab your boots, pack some snacks, and get ready for a day of adventure, my friends!
Congdon Park Trails
Difficulty: Moderate
Miles: 1.5 Miles
Trailhead: 3290 E 1st Street
So, have you heard about Congdon Park Trails? Let me tell you, they are totally amazing.
Congdon Park is a gem in itself, but the park trails take it to another level. The park is situated in Duluth, Minnesota and is surrounded by lush greenery.
The park trail runs along the valley of Fischer Creek and leads to a stunning waterfall, which is absolutely breathtaking.
I mean, just the sounds and sights of the waterfall alone are worth the visit to Congdon Park.
The park trail offers some of the best views of nature that you can witness in Minnesota. You can take a leisurely stroll along the trail, taking in the fresh air and enjoying the beauty of nature.
Honestly, it’s hard to describe the beauty of Congdon Park Trails in words. You just have to visit it yourself to believe that it is indeed a great place to explore.
Western Waterfront Trail
Difficulty: Easy Length: 4.3 Miles Trailhead: 7060 Grand Ave
Have you checked out the Western Waterfront Trail? It’s such a rad spot for a hike with some serious views of the waterfront on the St. Louis River and Lake Superior.
Starting at Munger, the trail runs all the way to Jay Cooke State Park.
You can explore the lush forests and rolling hills while passing by streams and waterfalls on this 4-mile trek. The trail is totally chill and perfect for a laid-back day out, whether you’re hiking or biking.
Plus, the sights are totally Instagram-ready so make sure to snap some pics while you’re there. If you’re looking for a little adventure without going too far out of town, the Western Waterfront Trail is the place to be.
Brewer Park
Difficulty: Moderate
Length 3.5 Miles
Trailhead: 2588 Haines Road
Brewer Park is a popular spot for Mountain Biking and Scenic Overlooks.
To start, walk under the Haines Road underground walkway. When the trail levels out, take the path to the right. It will intersect with the Superior Hiking Trial. Turn left and follow the trail back to the starting point.
You’ll get to see the St Louis River and the Duluth Superior Harbor along the way.
Enger Park
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 1 mile
Trailhead: 1461 W Skyline Parkway
Walk through the Japanese gardens and find the Japanese Peace Bell. Take the dirt trail leading up to Enger Tower. It’s a 80 foot tall tower that rises five stories above Duluth.
In March – April, you’ll see hundreds of migrating raptors.
Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 4 Miles
Location: E Skyline Parkway
The Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory is located on Skyline Ridge. This hiking location is a favorite during the bird migration season.
It get’s it name do to the large number of birds that migrate through the area.
The trail is a mix of woods, grass and rocks. It’s a fun one for the entire family.
Split Rock Lighthouse Trail
Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
Length: .7-5 Miles
Trailhead: 3713 Split Rock Lighthouse Rd, Two Harbors
Have you checked out the Split Rock Lighthouse Trail yet? It’s the spectacular! This trail is located north of Duluth and takes you straight to the lighthouse. Along the way, you’ll come across some killer walking trails that offer stunning views of Lake Superior.
There are a couple of trials but the most popular is the Loop through the park. It takes you to both ends, all along Lake Superior. You can do the spur trial to Day Hill Hike for some extra fun!
It’s a great spot to have a picnic and just chill with your friends.
Gooseberry Falls
Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
Length: .7-5 Miles
Trailhead: 3206 MN-61, Two Harbors
Okay folks, let me tell you about the Gooseberry Falls section of the Superior Hiking Trail. It might be little north of Duluth but still just a short drive away.
You’ll wind your way along the river and get a glimpse of the mighty Lake Superior. And let’s not forget about the Gooseberry Falls Waterfall. In the spring its really roaring. In the Fall it’s breathtaking. And in Winter, it’s an ice climber’s paradise. It’s a sight to behold.
What Duluth hiking trail will you do first?
Whenever I visit Duluth, I always make sure to check out a great trail. That’s because there are so many great ones.
Looking for more great opportunities to hike? Pick up a copy of Hiking the North Shore. They have 50 fabulous days hikes you can do all along the shoreline.