The best walks and hikes in St. Louis County

Embark on the Lift Bridge to Enger Tower Trail, a moderate hike spanning 5.8 miles (9.4 km) with an elevation gain of 594 feet (181 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 37 minutes to complete. You begin with a pleasant, flat walk along paved paths in Canal Park, offering expansive views of the waterfront and the Great Lakes Aquarium. As you continue, the route transitions into a wooded, single-track path, becoming quite steep for about a mile as you ascend towards Enger Tower. Your effort is rewarded with a stunning 360-degree panoramic vista from the 80-foot Enger Tower, showcasing the iconic Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge, the vast expanse of Lake Superior, and the surrounding cityscape.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail presents varied terrain, from smooth paved sections to challenging steep, gravel climbs, so wearing appropriate footwear is essential for comfort and safety. You will find general parking available near both Canal Park and Enger Park, providing convenient access to either end of the route. This trail is a popular choice, so consider starting earlier in the day to enjoy a more serene experience, especially during peak seasons.

This route offers a unique blend of urban exploration and natural beauty, connecting the lively atmosphere of Canal Park with the tranquil, elevated landscapes of Enger Park. The trail is notable for its dramatic change in scenery and elevation, providing a comprehensive experience of Duluth's diverse environment. It stands out as a prime way to experience both the city's waterfront charm and its elevated scenic overlooks, making it a memorable adventure for any hiker.

Embark on an easy hike along the Elys Peak via Superior Hiking Trail, a route that guides you through a mix of deciduous and pine forests. This 3.3-mile (5.3 km) journey involves a gentle ascent of 359 feet (110 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 29 minutes to complete. As you progress, you will discover unique rock formations and enjoy expansive views of Duluth and the St. Louis River valley from Ely's Peak, offering a rewarding experience without strenuous effort.

When planning your visit, remember that the trail is accessible year-round, making it suitable for winter hiking or snowshoeing if you are prepared for colder conditions. While generally considered easy, some sections can be rocky or steep, so wear appropriate footwear. If you intend to explore the historic railway tunnel, be sure to bring a flashlight to navigate its 520-foot length safely.

This route is nestled within the scenic Magney Snively Natural Area, providing a rich natural backdrop for your adventure. A distinctive highlight is the abandoned Duluth, Winnipeg and Pacific (DWP) Railway tunnel, a unique feature you can walk through. You will also encounter picturesque vistas of the St. Louis River Estuary, adding to the diverse scenery that makes this trail a local favorite.

Embark on the Big Aspen Trail for an easy hiking experience through the Superior National Forest. This route spans 4.4 miles (7.1 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of 131 feet (40 metres), making it perfect for a relaxed outing. As you hike, you will pass through diverse landscapes, including impressive pine and hardwood forests, with scenic vistas overlooking the reforested Rice River Valley.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is well-suited for hikers and their leashed dogs. You can expect to complete the entire loop in about 1 hour and 50 minutes at a comfortable pace. Maps are readily available throughout the system to help you navigate, and two Adirondack-style shelters provide convenient spots for a break or to enjoy the surroundings.

The Big Aspen Trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical pathways, often following old logging roads and abandoned railroad grades. This creates a varied terrain with both singletrack sections and wider paths. It is a multi-use system, highlighting the region's commitment to outdoor recreation and conservation, particularly in the reforested areas.

Embark on The Lakewalk, a moderate hiking route spanning 11.8 miles (18.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 250 feet (76 metres), typically completed in about 4 hours and 51 minutes. This paved path offers continuous views of Lake Superior and the bustling Duluth harbor. As you hike, you can watch large lake freighters navigate the waters and get close-up views of the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge. The route blends urban waterfront scenery with more tranquil, wooded sections, passing by landmarks like Canal Park and the Duluth Rose Garden.

The Lakewalk is a multi-use paved path, making it accessible and enjoyable throughout the year. You will find numerous access points along its length, offering flexibility for where you begin your hike. Even during winter months, the trail is regularly cleared of snow, ensuring it remains a popular option for outdoor activity. Plan your visit knowing that amenities are readily available along the route.

This trail stands out for its unique combination of natural beauty and urban convenience, allowing you to experience the vastness of Lake Superior alongside city landmarks. It provides an excellent opportunity to observe the maritime activity of the Duluth harbor up close. The path's design ensures a varied experience, moving between open waterfront and more sheltered, green spaces.

Embark on the Superior Hiking Trail and Deerslayer Trail Loop, a moderate hiking route that offers a diverse experience. You will cover 4.7 miles (7.5 km) and gain 726 feet (221 metres) in elevation, typically taking about 2 hours and 11 minutes to complete. Expect to traverse rugged terrain, including rocky ridges and dense forests of birch, aspen, and pine, with continuous views of Lake Superior from the ridgeline.

When planning your visit, be aware that sections of the Superior Hiking Trail can become muddy and wet, particularly during spring, so selecting appropriate footwear is advisable. The trail is generally well-marked and maintained, making navigation straightforward. This loop is also dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your canine companion along for the adventure.

This route combines a segment of the well-known Superior Hiking Trail with the distinct features of the Deerslayer Trail, which includes specific singletrack elements like bridges and natural rock faces. It provides a great opportunity to explore the varied landscapes within Brewer Park, offering a blend of challenging ascents and scenic overlooks.

Embark on an easy hike along The Lakewalk: Brighton Beach Park, a short and accessible route that offers continuous views of Lake Superior. This pleasant stroll covers 0.9 miles (1.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 36 feet (11 metres), making it perfect for a quick outing. You can expect to complete this hike in about 23 minutes, enjoying the fresh air and the expansive water. Look out for the platforms that extend over the water, providing closer views of the lake and any passing lake freighters.

This segment of the Lakewalk is located within Brighton Beach Park, ensuring easy access for your visit. The trail is primarily paved, offering a smooth surface for hiking, though you can explore more natural, unpaved areas if you venture directly onto Brighton Beach. Parking is generally available at or near Brighton Beach Park, and you won't need any specific permits or have to pay fees to enjoy this route.

The Lakewalk: Brighton Beach Park is a notable part of the larger Duluth Lakewalk system, providing a serene escape right within the city. It's a multi-use path popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists alike, highlighting its accessibility and broad appeal. The constant presence of Lake Superior and the opportunity to observe the Duluth harbor make this a distinctive and refreshing outdoor experience.

Embark on the Redhead Mountain Bike Loop, a moderate hiking route spanning 10.3 miles (16.5 km) with an elevation gain of 577 feet (176 metres). As you hike, you will discover a landscape shaped by its mining past, featuring exposed iron-red bedrock and deep blue lakes nestled against towering cliff faces. Plan for approximately 4 hours and 23 minutes to complete this trail at a steady pace, allowing you to fully appreciate the unique scenery.

This trail is part of a public, multi-use system, welcoming both hikers and bikers without any fees or permits. You will find parking generally available at the trailhead, making access straightforward for your visit. The Redhead Mountain Bike Loop is accessible year-round; during the winter months, the trails are groomed, offering excellent conditions for snowshoeing.

The Redhead Mountain Bike Loop offers a distinctive experience within the Redhead Mountain Bike Park in Chisholm, Minnesota. It winds through a landscape carved from an abandoned, water-filled mine pit, creating a striking blend of natural beauty and industrial history. Along the way, you can spot historical remnants from the mining era, adding a layer of intrigue to your outdoor adventure.

Embark on the Ely's Peak Loop Trail for an easy 1.2 miles (2.0 km) hike through diverse landscapes, where you will gain 199 feet (61 metres) in elevation. The route winds through beautiful forests and rocky sections, leading you to a summit with 360-degree panoramic views. From this vantage point, you can take in the expansive St. Louis River valley, the city of Duluth, and the historic Oliver Bridge, all within an estimated 36 minutes of walking.

This popular local trail is accessible year-round, making it a great option for hiking during warmer months or even snowshoeing in winter. The trailhead is easy to reach, and you will find the path well-marked with blue blazes for the main Superior Hiking Trail segments and white blazes for any spur trails you might encounter. Plan your visit to enjoy the trail's natural beauty.

Beyond the scenic vistas, a unique feature of this loop is the fascinating 520-foot abandoned railroad tunnel you can explore along the way. The trail is particularly stunning in autumn, when the trees burst with vibrant fall colors, adding another layer of beauty to your outdoor adventure in the Magney-Snively Natural Area.

Embark on an easy hike along Waabizheshikana: The Marten Trail, a route that offers picturesque views of the St. Louis River. This trail is a gentle 1.5 miles (2.5 km) long, with a minimal elevation gain of just 23 feet (7 metres), making it accessible for most. You can expect to complete this pleasant walk in about 38 minutes, enjoying the changing landscape and the chance to spot vibrant wildflowers, especially during midsummer.

When planning your visit, note that the trail features a wide, gravel surface. While generally easy to navigate, wearing good shoes is recommended due to the sharp gravel underfoot. Seasonal restrooms are conveniently located near the parking areas, ensuring comfort during your outing. This route is ideal for a quick nature escape without requiring extensive preparation.

The Marten Trail is a unique part of the St. Louis River Estuary National Water Trail, showcasing one of the world's largest freshwater estuaries. As you hike, look for distinctive interpretive panels that feature Ojibwe words and laser-cut stainless-steel animal sculptures, celebrating the area's rich heritage and natural history. These artistic elements provide a deeper connection to the local environment and culture.