🌤 Weather at Gitchi-Gami State Trail by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15–60 °F | 49–76 °F | 21–65 °F | 1–24 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Wolf Ridge Elc, 8 mi away, elevation 1,400 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Lake Superior Shoreline Trail — Epic 89-mile paved trail along the North Shore from Two Harbors to Grand Marais
Gitchi-Gami State Trail is one of America’s most spectacular bike trails — an 89-mile paved path tracing the shore of Lake Superior from Two Harbors to Grand Marais. “Gitchi-Gami” is the Ojibwe name for Lake Superior, meaning “Great Sea.” The trail hugs the rocky North Shore coastline, passing waterfalls, lighthouse viewpoints, state parks (Gooseberry, Split Rock, Tettegouche, Temperance, Cascade), and dramatic volcanic headlands. Completed segments offer some of the most breathtaking cycling views in North America.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Two Harbors to Grand Marais, MN |
| Length | 89 miles (paved, some gaps) |
| Fee | Free (no pass required) |
| Name | “Gitchi-Gami” = Ojibwe for “Great Sea” |
| Parks | Gooseberry, Split Rock, Tettegouche, more |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the trail complete?
Approximately 70 of the 89 planned miles are paved and open. Some gaps require riding on Highway 61’s shoulder. Check the Gitchi-Gami Trail Association website for current segment status and detour information.
About Gitchi-Gami Trail
Gitchi-Gami State Trail (named from the Ojibwe word for Lake Superior — “Great Sea”) is an 88-mile paved trail along the North Shore from Two Harbors to Grand Marais. When complete, it will be one of the finest lakeshore trails in the world. The trail hugs the shore of the largest freshwater lake on Earth, passing waterfalls, rocky headlands, and boreal forest.
Things to Do
Biking along the Lake Superior shore, hiking connecting segments, waterfall viewing, agate hunting on cobblestone beaches, birdwatching, fall foliage touring, and cross-country skiing. One of America’s most scenic bike trails.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Ray Berglund State Wayside is a short drive away, and Tettegouche State Park is a short drive away.
🚴 Visit Gitchi-Gami State Trail
“Great Sea” trail — 89 miles along Lake Superior past waterfalls and lighthouses.
Wildlife & Nature
Gitchi-Gami Trail — a planned 89-mile paved trail along Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior — currently has 29+ miles completed. The trail hugs the dramatic volcanic coastline. Moose cross the trail. Bald eagles fish Lake Superior. Common loons call offshore. Lake Superior agates wash up on the beaches.
Nearby Attractions
Two Harbors to Grand Marais — the trail connects North Shore communities. Split Rock Lighthouse — along the trail. Gooseberry Falls — along the trail. Tettegouche SP — along the trail.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Gitchi-Gami State Trail
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in Minnesota state parks and recreation areas as long as they are leashed and personally attended at all times.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash six feet or shorter (or portable enclosure) required at all times.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Only service animals are allowed in beach areas — pets are prohibited on swim beaches statewide.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Only service animals are allowed in state park lodging, camper cabins, yurts and tipis — no pet-friendly cabin program.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Emotional support/therapy animals do not qualify as service animals and are prohibited from park buildings.
Are dogs allowed at Gitchi-Gami State Trail?
Pets are welcome in Minnesota state parks and recreation areas as long as they are leashed and personally attended at all times. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via dnr.state.mn.us. More: Minnesota state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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