Itasca State Park
May 31, 2020
Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Trail System is a relatively new mountain bike trail system in the heart of Minnesota. Since it officially launched as part of the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area in 2011, the Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Trail System has been awarded a Silver Level Ride Center by the International Mountain Biking Association. The over 25 miles of twists and turns through the breathtaking Cuyuna region has trails for beginners, intermediate and advanced riders. The trails are broken into four different categories for difficulty and cover over 800 acres. Trails have excellent marking, convenient parking, and views of the crystal blue waters of Manual Mine Lake and Huntington Mine Lake.
Beginner trails are smooth and kept, with more of a focus on the scenery and shorter distance. The more challenging trails continue to provide eye-catching scenery, but with more heart-pumping twists, turns, climbs and descents. They are certain to challenge the skills of any experienced mountain biker! The signature red clay dirt of the trail adds to the aesthetic nature of the trails, and to the grit and grip of the ride.
No special equipment is required, just your bike and a helmet. You can also rent a ride in town nearby to make it even easier to participate.
And don’t think that these trails are only for the warm months, Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Biking is a year-round sport! Fat biking trails are groomed all winter, with over 20 miles dedicated to their purpose. Don’t have a fat bike? Rent one and try it out, you just might have found your new winter sport! Do be aware that many of these trails cross snowmobile trails, so keep a sharp eye out.
Speaking of keeping an eye out, you are likely to see many types of animals including red tail hawks, bald eagles, beavers, and more! Runners and hikers are allowed on the trails as well, with specific protocols to follow to keep everyone safe.
- MN Department of Natural Resources website here:
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/cuyuna_lakes/mtnbiking.html - Trail map, parking permits, and more here:
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/park.html?id=sra00302#homepage - Not sure how to get there? Follow detailed instructions here:
https://www.brainerd.com/recreation/biking/cuyuna-mountain-bike-trail/
