Duluth: Your next hiking destination
If you’re looking for a place to hike, Duluth, Minnesota, should be on your radar. The city is uniquely situated on Lake Superior and surrounded by forests, making it a beautiful place to explore nature.
This guide will take you through some of the best hiking trails near Duluth. Whether you want an easy stroll or a challenging climb, we’ve got you covered.
Before you head out, remember to follow Leave No Trace principles. These principles are there to help preserve the beauty of Duluth for future generations.
What to know before you hit the Duluth trails
Duluth has trails to suit every fitness level, from the casual walker to the serious long-distance hiker. Here’s some information to help you choose the trail that’s right for you.
Understanding trail difficulty
Hiking trails are typically classified as easy, moderate, or challenging.
- Easy: These trails are generally shorter, flatter, and well-maintained. These are perfect for beginners and families.
- Moderate: These trails may have some hills and uneven ground.
- Challenging: These trails are longer and steeper and may require some experience and physical fitness.
Preparing for your hike
A little preparation can help ensure you have a safe and pleasurable hike.
Essential gear and clothing
Even in summer, it’s best to dress in layers, so you can adapt to changing weather conditions. You’ll also want to bring hiking boots, a raincoat, water, snacks, and a map.
Safety considerations
Before you head out, check the weather forecast and trail conditions. Be aware of the potential for wildlife encounters, slippery rocks, and changing water levels.
Exploring Trails Within Duluth City Limits
You don’t have to travel outside the city limits to find some great hiking in Duluth. Here are some trails within the city that are worth exploring.
The Lakewalk
Duluth’s Lakewalk is a 7.5-mile paved path that runs right along the shore of Lake Superior. The Lakewalk gives you gorgeous views of the lake and the city skyline, and because it’s paved, it’s great for walking, running, biking, and even rollerblading. You can hop on and off the Lakewalk at multiple access points along the route.
Popular spots along the Lakewalk include Canal Park, the Aerial Lift Bridge, and all the restaurants and shops along the way.
Lester Park Trail
Lester Park offers a variety of hiking trails, from easy strolls to more challenging climbs, so there’s something for everyone. In the winter, Lester Park is a popular destination for cross-country skiers.
Other Notable City Trails
Here are a few more trails that you can find without leaving Duluth:
- Chester Park Trail (4.2 miles)
- Hawk Ridge Trails (5 miles)
- Lincoln Park Trail (0.82 miles)
- Piedmont Trail (3.4 miles)
- Waabizheshikana (Western Waterfront Trail) (3.2 miles)
Venture Beyond: State Parks and Nearby Hikes
Duluth has plenty of places to hike, but don’t forget the state parks and other trails that are a short drive away. Here are a few of my favorites:
Jay Cooke State Park
A short 20-minute drive from Duluth, Jay Cooke State Park has rugged terrain, scenic overlooks, and the very cool Swinging Bridge over the St. Louis River. The park has hiking trails for every skill level, from easy strolls to more challenging climbs.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Gooseberry Falls is another gem right on the shore of Lake Superior. The park is known for its waterfalls that cascade right into the lake, and the coastal scenery is spectacular. You’ll find hiking trails of different lengths and difficulty levels, so you can choose one that suits your fitness level.
Gooseberry Falls is a popular destination year-round, and each season brings its own attractions.
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
Home to the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse, this park offers amazing views of Lake Superior. There are several hiking trails along the shoreline and through the forests surrounding the lighthouse.
Pattison State Park
Just a half-hour drive from Duluth, Pattison State Park features Big Manitou Falls, which is the highest waterfall in Wisconsin. The park has hiking trails, camping, and about 5.5 miles of cross-country skiing trails.
Challenging Hikes for Experienced Adventurers
Looking for a more strenuous hike? Duluth and its surrounding areas offer a few options that will test your endurance and reward you with incredible views.
Bean and Bear Loop
This 7-mile loop is no walk in the park. Expect steep climbs that will get your heart pumping, but the payoff is well worth the effort. The trail offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Superior and the vast forests surrounding it.
Mount Trudee
One reviewer calls this the “Best Difficult Hiking Trail near Duluth.” I’m looking into this one and will share more details as I learn them.
High Falls on the Baptism River
The hike to High Falls is amazing any time of year, but it’s especially gorgeous in the winter, when the surrounding landscape is covered in snow and ice. Keep in mind that the trail is likely to be very icy during the winter months, so wear appropriate footwear.
Easy hikes and hidden gems
If you’re looking for a less strenuous hike with a big visual payoff, these might be right up your alley:
Shovel Point
This short, easy one-mile trail offers stunning views of Lake Superior. The well-maintained trail has very little elevation gain, so it’s suitable for hikers of all ages and abilities.
Lost Creek Falls
This is another shorter, easier hike that will take you to a beautiful waterfall.
Caribou Falls
Caribou Falls is a little further afield, almost an hour and a half from Duluth, but it’s worth the drive.
Final Thoughts
Duluth and the surrounding area offer some of the most gorgeous and varied hiking in the Midwest. Whether you’re looking for a challenging climb, a reflective walk, or a place to bring the family, you’ll find a trail that suits you.
When you’re out on the trails, please remember to Leave No Trace, so that everyone can enjoy the area’s natural beauty for generations to come.
Now, get out there and explore all the trails Duluth has to offer!