Iron Mines Turned Into Outdoor Gems
By: Maria Hileman
A new trail has been blazed in the form of 112 miles of high-caliber riding. The mining history of the Iron Range left behind terrain perfect for mountain biking. The deep mine pits filled with crystal-clear water and the red dirt carved into a world-class trail system offer an elevated experience like nowhere else.
Ride the Range is a partnership between four northern Minnesota mountain biking destinations: Giants Ridge, Redhead, Tioga and Cuyuna. These destinations offer the best mountain biking the Upper Midwest has to offer. Each place offers something unique to riders of all ages and skill levels.
Relax on a chairlift ride up to eight purpose-built gravity trails carved from picturesque alpine forest terrain and 9.2 miles of cross-country trails tucked away in the Superior National Forest.
Experience 25 miles of trails on a landscape cratered with deep blue lakes and featuring expansive overlooks, towering cliff faces, rugged bedrock and rich iron-stained dirt.
Twist through more than 30 miles of rock-studded landscape, from family-friendly loops to heart-pumping double-blacks. There are jump lines, skills tracks, tech trails and miles of cross-country trails expertly maintained and ready to explore.
Explore 55 miles of single-track trails with unmatched scenery. This IMBA Silver Ride Center offers trails for all skill levels — from beginner to expert, easy to technical, surrounded by 600 acres of reforested mine lakes.
Plan your next mountain bike adventure at ridetherange.com.
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Read more of our stories in Issue 22 of Lake and Company.