Minnesota's Best Mountain Biking Destination!
Enjoy over 75+ miles of riding spread across 800 acres of paved and singletrack trails. The trail system is a part of the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area which is adjacent to Crosby and Ironton, MN.
Ore excavation created steep hills; 500-foot-deep pits have turned into emerald lakes; and the trails are some of the most exquisitely flowing stretches of dirt in the Midwest. Stay overnight and get the full experience.
Purchase a park permit today and get a year of unlimited visits to all of Minnesota's state parks and recreation areas.
The Cuyuna Lakes State Trail are miles of paved trail within the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area from Crosby to Riverton. One mile passes through the City of Aitkin along State Highway 169. Abandoned by mining companies more than 35 years ago, the state recreation area contains six natural lakes, plus an additional 15 deep lakes that were former mine pits. Stop to fish, explore the Croft Mine, or ride the single track mountain bike trail system.
Winter Fat Bike Trails at Cuyuna
Miles and miles of multi-use trails are available for fat biking, groomed specifically for a premier fat biking experience. Beginner fat bikers check out the Sagamore Unit on Hwy 52 in Riverton. Sagamore Unit - 2-939 Co Rd 59, Ironton, MN 56455. Google maps will take you right to it! The biking season never ends!!!
Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Trails information and WAY more.
Let's start with Cuyuna Trail Conditions
https://www.cuyunalakesmtb.com/currentconditions
A $35 year-round vehicle permit or $7 / day permit (in 2023) provides unlimited visits to all 75 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas for a full year from the month of purchase. By purchasing a vehicle permit, you help maintain and improve the parks.
https://reservemn.usedirect.com/MinnesotaWeb/Passes/Passes.aspx
Where do I go? I am a beginner or I am taking a friend or child.
Beginners, check out the sagamore unit on Hwy 52 in Riverton.
Sagamore Unit - 2-939 Co Rd 59, Ironton, MN 56455
Google maps will take you right to it!
What bike do I need?
A mountain bike – preferably a quality bike shop knobby tire bike.
Consider upgrading to carbon down the road – more easily damaged & light. Full suspension, potentially heavier & more comfortable. Electric Mountain bikes are more expensive & worth every penny. We testify, it might not be cheating, and people are proving with data that electric bikers are getting just as much if not a multiplication effect of the exercise they used to get on their analog bicycle.
How will you transport your bike/s to the trails?
Anyway, that works, check out our website for bike racks in stock.
Tailgate covers are popular. Hanging racks, tray style hitch racks. Just get there! Where there is a will there is a way. We advise working your way up to a smoothy easy to use solution that keeps you coming back for you best rides possible.
easyridersbikes.com - Car Racks
Apps / Maps
GPS App - DNR
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/mobile/geopdf/index.html
Trail Fork App - Map App
https://www.trailforks.com/apps/map/
Cuyuna PDF Maps
http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/maps/state_parks/sra00302.pdf
Strava - GPS Mapping and Ride Tracking
Ride Spot - People For Bikes
https://ridespot.org/rides/104699
Visit Cuyuna.com for all the details about biking experiences and after biking fun.
Mountain Bike Team Information:
Join the Cuyuna Lakes high school mountain bike team. 6-12th grade.
Get all your questions about the school age mountain bike team by clicking the link below or contacting the coaching staff.
What is the layout of the middle school / high school mountain bike team season?
Practice typically begins the end of July and runs through the end of October. We practice 4:30pm-6:30pm Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays and 9am-12pm on Saturdays. There is no Saturday practice on race weekends
Little Bellas
A mountain bike organization whose goal is to help young girls realize their potential.
https://littlebellas.com/camp/cuyuna-mn-program/
I can mountain bike
You'll learn shifting, braking, body position, basic safety and trail etiquette on a closed skills course, and then hit the trails for a group ride. Small group sizes and experienced instructors will ensure you leave the program with the skills you need to ride the trails on your own. Ages 10 and up.
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/ican/mountain_bike.html
Range Riders
The Cuyuna Ranger Ride, hosted by Crosby-Ironton Community Education (made possible by a Hallett Trust Grant), teaches youth ages 6 to 13 mountain biking skills. After two days of skill instruction, students can attend weekly rides to practice those skills. This 10-week program is designed for beginners and intermediate youth riders. Participants can attend as many (or all!) of the sessions, as they are able. The volunteer ride leaders are passionate about getting kids on bikes, healthy living, and enjoying the outdoors and mountain bike trails of the Cuyuna region.
https://www.facebook.com/rangerridecuyuna
Cuyuna Camp - Crosby Community Ed - Sign up is early spring each year.
https://crosbyironton.cr3.rschooltoday.com/public/costoption/class_id/126
Is my child ready? Getting young people on bikes.
https://www.imba.com/blog/ride-vibes-getting-young-kids-bikes
Join The Crew - Volunteer Opportunities
https://www.cuyunalakesmtb.com
Join IMBA
IMBA Trail Rating System https://imbacanada.com/trail-difficulty-rating-system/
Cuyuna.com (Where to stay, play, eat, work and more.)
https://www.cuyuna.com/cuyunacountrystaterecreationarea/
MN DNR C.C.S.R.A. (Cuyuna Country State Re-creation Area)
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/cuyuna/mtnbiking.html
MN DNR Safety Recommendations
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/biking/safety.html
DNR Overview Map and Brochure
https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/maps/state_parks/sra00302.pdf
Cuyuna Trail Guidelines
https://www.cuyunalakesmtb.com/seasonalguidlines
Events:
Cuyuna Crusher Mountain Bike Race
https://www.mnmtbseries.com/cuyna-mountain-bike-race
Triathlons in the area:
June Triathlon (MTB, Paddle, Run)
https://www.cuyuna.com/off-road-triathlon/
https://lakescountrytriathlon.com/
https://facebook.com/KiwanisKidsTri
Paved trails:
The Paul Bunyan State Trail is 115 miles long, not including a couple of short on-road connections through the cities of Baxter and Bemidji. Extending all the the way from Crow Wing State Park to Lake Bemidji State Park, it is the longest of Minnesota's state trails and the longest continuously paved rail-trail in the country. It connects with the 8 mile Heartland State Trail, and at Lake Bemidji State Park it connects to the Blue Ox Trail, an unpaved motorized trail for snowmobiling and off-highway vehicle riding that extends northeast to International Falls.
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/paul_bunyan/index.html
Ride to Crow Wing State Park
Stretching from the Mississippi to the Boundary Waters, with over 150 miles of paved trail, the Mesabi Trail is like no other in the country. Cutting through the forests of northeast Minnesota, your adventure will take you past lakes, creeks and ponds, by vast red pits of old iron ore mines now filled with emerald green water. You are sure to be greeted by native wildlife during your travels. Pass through 28 communities, stop in at a local attraction to experience the history of the area, learn about our mining and logging legacies, enjoy the local cuisine…try a sarma, a pasty or some potica.
https://www.traillink.com/trailsearch/?mmloc=56401
https://www.leechlakeresort.com/leech-lake-biking
Paul Bunyan Cycling Membership Information
http://www.paulbunyancyclists.com/
Annual membership dues are $20 for a single membership and $30 for family memberships. Our calendar year is May 1 through April 30. Dues are due by May 1 each year. Membership provides support for the club and:
Tour of the Lakes - 1st weekend in June annually:
http://www.paulbunyancyclists.com/tour-of-lakes.html
Gravel / Adventure ride group:
)Group Ride: Sat. 6:30 pm - Ironton, MN (2023 - see link for current info)
https://www.cuyuna.com/cykelsaturdaygroupride/
Women's ride - every other Sunday at 3:30 pm - meet at Red Raven in Crosby, MN. (2023 - see link for current info)
https://www.cuyuna.com/sheredderswomensgroupride/
Winter Adventures:
Cuyuna is open for winter fat biking!!!
Check the trail conditions to see if the fat bike trails are open and in good condition.
Beginner fat bikers check out the Sagamore Unit on Hwy 52 in Riverton.
Sagamore Unit - 2-939 Co Rd 59, Ironton, MN 56455
Google maps will take you right to it!
The Complete Yawkey Unit of Trails is possibly Cuyuna’s best fat biking experience.
https://www.cuyuna.com/fat-bike-yawkey-beginner/
Outdoor Adventures: The Brainerd Lakes Area is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. In Baxter and Cuyuna, you can explore the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, home to pristine lakes, picturesque forests, and a network of world-class mountain biking trails. Whether you're an experienced cyclist or just looking for a leisurely ride, these trails offer a fantastic biking experience. Additionally, this region is perfect for hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife watching. The serene lakes and wooded landscapes create an ideal setting for camping, picnicking, and connecting with nature.
Golfing Enthusiasts: If you're a golfing enthusiast, the Brainerd Lakes Area has no shortage of well-designed golf courses. Baxter, in particular, is home to several premier golfing facilities, allowing you to enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning surroundings.
History and Culture: In Crosby and Ironton, you can delve into the rich history of the Cuyuna Iron Range. The Cuyuna Range Historical Society and the Croft Mine Historical Park provide a fascinating insight into the area's mining heritage. Take guided tours to learn about the mining boom, explore the deep mine pits, and uncover the stories of the miners who once toiled in these iron mines.
Local Events and Festivals: Throughout the year, the Brainerd Lakes Area hosts a variety of events and festivals, celebrating everything from music and arts to local cuisine. These events offer a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the vibrant community spirit.
Family-Friendly Fun: The Brainerd Lakes Area is a family-friendly destination. Families can enjoy activities like mini-golf, water parks, and wildlife encounters. There are plenty of opportunities to make cherished family memories amidst the region's natural beauty.
Winter Wonderland: In the winter, the Brainerd Lakes Area transforms into a wonderland for winter sports enthusiasts. Enjoy activities such as snowmobiling, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing..
Ice Skating: Embrace the magic of winter with ice skating at several local rinks, including Memorial Park with a large hockey rink and a small pleasure rink (all lighted); Bane Park with a large hockey rink (lighted) and a pleasure rink; and Gregory Park with a pleasure rink featuring string lighting around the rink.
Stay cozy between staking bouts in the provided warming houses, which are open during the winter season with flexible hours. Enjoy free ice skates at various locations.
Thursday, December 30: Gregory Park (noon - 8 p.m.), Bane Park (4 - 8 p.m.), and Memorial Park ( 4 - 8 p.m.).
Friday, December 31: All warming houses (noon - 8 p.m. )
We will be open New Years Day: All warming houses (noon- 8 p.m.)
Monday - Friday 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Saturday 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Sunday 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Ice Fishing: Experience the thrill of ice fishing on the frozen lakes of the Brainerd Lakes Area, a favorite winter pastime among locals and visitors.
Downhill Skiing: For the downhill skiing enthusiasts, Mount Ski Gull offers exhilarating slopes and winter fun for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
Cross-Country Skiing: Explore the serene Wolf Lake Trails or the Northland Arboretum XC Ski Trail with Lights. XC ski under the stars and enjoy the tranquility of a winter wonderland.
Sledding: Grab a sled and head to Trinity Church Hill for children under 6 (91420 S 6th St, Brainerd) and Brainerd High School/Brainerd Library Hill for some exciting sledding adventures.
Indoor Activities: For indoor fun, visit Lakes Party & Bounce House, Three Bears & Arrowwood for indoor waterslides, Jay's Pizza Arcade, Pizza Ranch & Arcade, and the Mann 12 Movie Theatre.
Indoor Swimming and Recreation: Enjoy indoor swimming and recreation at the Hallett Center, a great place to stay active and have fun during any season.
Bowling: Visit Cuyuna Lanes in Crosby or Jack's House Bowl for a fun and competitive bowling experience with family and friends.
Sauna Rental: Take relaxation to the next level with a sauna rental experience to unwind and rejuvenate.
Nisswa Waterslides: Head to Nisswa Waterslides for a thrilling day of water slides and aquatic adventures.
Ice Cream: Satisfy your sweet tooth at various Dairy Queen locations in Crosby, Brainerd, and Nisswa. Enjoy a delicious treat and cool off. Coldstone, Baxter. Triangle Ice Cream, Brainerd High Wheel Confectionary, Ironton and many other locations.
Pirate's Cove Mini Golf and Go-Karts: Challenge your family and friends to a round of mini golf and go-karts at Pirate's Cove.
Brainerd International Raceway: For racing enthusiasts, the Brainerd International Raceway offers high-speed excitement and events for all to enjoy.
Escape Room: Test your problem-solving skills at Copper Cate's Escape Room for an exhilarating and brain-teasing experience.
Fishing on Area Lakes: Explore the local lakes and enjoy some quality fishing. The Brainerd Lakes Area is a fishing paradise.
Outdoor Fun: Visit Whipple Beach and Playground with outdoor showers, as well as Pelican Beach for a day of sun, sand, and relaxation.
Parks: Take advantage of the numerous parks throughout the area, including Crosby Park, Oscar Kristofferson Park, Baxter Park, Lauren Thompson Park, Grandma's Park in Ironton (featuring Pickleball and Basketball courts), Lum Park, and many more.
High Wheel Confectionery: Don't forget to visit the High Wheel Confectionery, a delightful candy store that also offers coffee, ice cream, toys, and a cozy spot to sit down and enjoy your treats.
Whether you're seeking indoor or outdoor entertainment, the Brainerd Lakes Area has a wide array of activities to keep you engaged and create lasting memories with family and friends.
Cuyuna Mountain Biking Trailside campgrounds
https://www.redriderresort.com/
https://www.truenorthbasecamp.com/
https://www.ci.cuyuna.mn.us/campground/
https://www.cuyuna.com/sleep/cuyunacovecanvastents/
https://reservemn.usedirect.com/MinnesotaWeb/ Place Name: Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area
to reserve a Yawkey Mine Lake Yurt or Porthsmouth Campground Sites. Pick a day. You'll see available options.
RV Campground: 21704 Dewing Road Crosby, MN 56441
https://cuyunarangecampground.com/book-a-campsite/
Main Street Lofts: The Bike Vault. 101 Main St NW, Crosby, MN 56441
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/36840503?source_impression_id=p3_1665664771_PjvjwMmkfRv7%2FTjz
Boutique Hotels:
https://www.crosbyloftsmn.com/ (Above Rafferty's Pizza in downtown Crosby, MN)
Deerwood Hotel:
https://www.cuyunalakesstay.com/book-now
Cabins
https://www.cuyuna.com/true-north-basecamp/
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/651330634564434565?source_impression_id=p3_1656527436_f3PCWnX5w87zYroe Swan
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/643624264677379362?source_impression_id=p3_1656527488_9sGdBrBhcDDOMrFl Red Wing
https://www.redriderresort.com/
We are the only resort connecting the Cuyuna Rec Area to offer cabins on stilts. Have you ever wanted to feel like your sleeping in a tree house? Then these are the cabins for you with the cable walk bridge 7″ off the ground is a experience you won’t forget. All cabins come with a Fire Ring with a grate for cooking, park style charcoal grill, picnic table and 4 folding chairs for around the campfire. The cabins have a screen porch under them and a bike storage locker.
Want more to explore more mountain bike trails visit:
https://www.ridetherange.com/
Cohasset, Minnesota 55721 (Near Grand Rapids, MN)
https://www.ridetherange.com/locations/tioga/
Chisholm, Minnesota 55719 (Between Hibbing & Virginia)
https://www.ridetherange.com/locations/redhead/
Biwabik, Minnesota 55708 (Near/Past Virginia MN)
https://www.ridetherange.com/locations/giants-ridge
Or go big and visit the mountain biking capital of the world!
Bentonville, Arkansas.
https://www.visitbentonville.com/
Nat Ross - Getting ready to ride.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1svBWmhr-g
Air Pressure. Brake check. Communicated the route. Safety gear. (Knee Pads, glove, helmet) First Aid kit. Tubes/Pump.
Leave no trace. Pack out what you pack in. Be a steward of the trails. Riders yield to hikers/runners and horseback riders. Plan Ahead.
Restaurants and hang outs
https://www.hudson218.com/our-story-1
Bike Shop Restaurant
Other recommended Restaurants:
https://restaurants.subway.com/united-states/mn/crosby/210-w-main-st
https://www.cuyuna.com/macdaddysdonutgarage/
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or prefer indoor activities, the Brainerd Lakes Area, including Baxter, Cuyuna, Ironton, and Crosby, offers an array of winter adventures and entertainment to keep you engaged throughout the seasons.