The Cliff Dweller Guide to Mountain Biking the North Shore
August 2025
Welcome to your trail-ready guide to biking the North Shore, brought to you by Cliff Dweller, a serene lakeside escape perched right above the powerful waters of Lake Superior. Here, you’ll trade in city clamor for crashing waves, rustling birch leaves, and unbeatable access to the North Shore’s most scenic biking adventures.
Cliff Dweller sits directly on the paved Gitchi-Gami Trail and within easy reach of Minnesota’s most beloved mountain biking trails. Whether you’re pedaling through poplar-lined singletrack or coasting along shoreline paths, this is your basecamp for riding, relaxing, and reconnecting.
Top Mountain Biking Trails by Region
1. Grand Marais – Pincushion Mountain Trails
Just a short drive north of Grand Marais, Pincushion offers 10–13 miles of forested singletrack. Riders can explore varied terrain with trails like Talus and Rift, perfect for intermediate and advanced bikers.
2. Lutsen–Tofte Area: Britton Peak / High Climber / Jackpot
These interconnected trails are very close to Cliff Dweller and deliver some of the best riding on the North Shore:
Britton Peak: Beginner-friendly loops like Short Stacker and Skookum.
High Climber: Five miles of scenic climbing through maples.
Jackpot: A 9-mile thrill ride with granite views and technical flow.
3. Beaver Bay – Split Rock Wilds Trail System
For the experienced mountain biker, this black diamond system features exposed rock ridgelines and punchy climbs. One of the most technical systems in Minnesota.
Scenic Touring: Gitchi-Gami State Trail
Right outside our door, this 36-mile paved trail rolls past waterfalls, forest, and dramatic shoreline views. Perfect for families, casual riders, or anyone on an e-bike. Hop on the trail directly from Cliff Dweller for a stress-free, car-free adventure.
Remote Adventures: North Shore State Trail & Gravel Roads
For gravel riders and bikepackers, this 70-mile natural surface trail offers solitude and backcountry beauty between Finland and Grand Marais. Forest roads nearby provide peaceful routes through Superior National Forest.
Hidden Gems & Off-the-Radar Rides
Lake County Demonstration Forest: Eight miles of quiet, beginner-friendly trails that connect to the Superior Hiking Trail.
Lester River Trails in Duluth: Gentle and scenic, ideal for a laid-back day trip.
Fat Biking: Come winter, Gooseberry Falls, Pincushion, and Split Rock Wilds offer groomed fat-bike routes with snowy shoreline views.
Top Trail Tips for Cliff Dweller Guests
Pack essentials: water, snacks, repair kit, and weather gear.
Let someone know your route, cell service can be limited.
Always check trail conditions, especially after heavy weather.
Be kind to the land: follow signage and respect private property.
Why Stay at Cliff Dweller?
Lakeside Peace & Quiet: Fall asleep to the sound of waves and wake to a Lake Superior sunrise.
Direct Trail Access: Jump on the Gitchi-Gami right from the property.
Nature-Focused Comfort: Every room includes a balcony and unmatched lake views, perfect for unwinding after a day on the trails.
Central Location: Minutes from Lutsen, Tofte, and Grand Marais biking zones.
Whether you're seeking quiet pedal-powered journeys or heart-pumping technical rides, Cliff Dweller places you in the heart of the North Shore’s mountain biking paradise. Come for the trails, stay for the views, and find your peace by the lake.
Ready to ride? Book your stay at Cliff Dweller today.
