Biking/In-line Skating

Paved trails provide a safe experience for bicycle enthusiasts and in-line skaters. Trails in the Park Rapids Lakes Area connect communities and a chance to immerse yourself in the countryside. Users will see wildflowers, birds and, occasionally, wildlife as they enjoy their travel. Bring a picnic lunch and relax at one of several parks located along the Heartland State Trail or stop in one of the friendly communities along the way for an ice cream cone or meal.

Heartland State Trail, a 49-mile multiple use, paved trail between Park Rapids and Cass Lake. The Heartland Trail was one of the first rail-to-trail projects in the country, an asphalt ribbon laid on a level abandoned railroad grade. Trail users pass numerous lakes, rivers and streams. The trail skirts northern hardwood forests and stands of jack, red and white pine, as well as spruce firs. The occasional majestic white pine towers overhead and wildflowers color the trail sides. Riders and hikers may see whitetail deer, raccoon, red fox, porcupine, beaver and muskrat and lucky ones may spot coyote, weasel, mink, bobcat or black bear. Many varieties of birds can be seen along the trail including the bald eagle. Along the 27 miles between Park Rapids and Walker, there is a second grassy treadway for horseback riding and mountain biking. Trail side parks are located at Park Rapids, Dorset, Nevis, Akeley and Walker. For more information see: www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/heartland/index.html

Paul Bunyan State Trail, a 110-mile trail between Brainerd/Baxter and Bemidji. Currently, 69.5 miles of the trail is paved from Brainerd/Baxter to Walker. The region is rich in history, having been inhabited for centuries before French explorers came to the area. Thirteen recorded prehistoric sites have been identified near the Paul Bunyan State Trail. The Ojibwe and Dakota were present in the area until explorers entered the region and the logging and railroad industry took over. Most towns along the trail have a rich railroad and logging history. Now they are popular vacation destinations and provide trail access points, rest areas and services. They also provide a major part of the regional identity and sites of historic interest. The Heartland Trail and Paul Bunyan Trail connect 3 miles east of Akeley at the Hubbard/Cass line on Highway 34. For more information see: www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/paul_bunyan/index.html

Itasca State Park, 16 miles of surfaced bike trails are located in the park. A 5.8-mile section is marked for two-way bike traffic along the east side of Lake Itasca between Douglas Lodge and the Headwaters area. The rolling trails in the park make for a fun and challenging ride, but offer spectacular views. For a full bicycle tour, continue along Wilderness Drive for another 10 miles, but be aware you share this portion of the ride with motorists. Rentals are available. For more information call (218)266-2100 or see: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/itasca/trails.html

Lake & Pine Country Trails http://www.mnbiketrails.com/main.asp?SectionID=49&SubSectionID=124&AdId=102

Headwaters 100 Bike Ride
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