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Minnesotans, living in a state known for bitter winters and short summers, have learned to enjoy their summers to
the fullest. In a state covered with a web of bike trails, the Paul Bunyan Trail stands out for its beauty, wildlife and
accessibility.
The Paul Bunyan Trail winds for 100 miles through the lake country between Baxter and Bemidji. This trail runs
through forested areas between small communities. In an area inhabited by both woodland wildlife and waterfowl,
the cyclists are certain to see a wonderfully diverse collection of creatures as well as breathtaking lake views.
Abandoned rail lines serve as the basis for the Paul Bunyan Trail. Conservationists from the Department of Natural
Resources have transformed the old rail beds into pleasant trails accessing secluded areas between communities.
This allows hikers and cyclists to see natures beautiful scenery and wildlife in its own habitat.
Summer on the Trail
Cycling on the Paul Bunyan Trail begins in April and continues until snow fall, usually in late October. Trail users will
find the woods coming alive in April and May, with an abundance of wild flowers and young wildlife. June through
July provides warm days and cool evenings to explore the lake country, perhaps stopping to pull in a walleye and
pan fry lunch at one of the many camp sites along the trail. Fall brings the wonder of color to the woodlands. Oak,
maple, birch and ash all display the brilliant colors of fall.
SPECIAL NOTE: Fishing licenses for one day are available through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
for $8.50. Fishing licenses must be purchased in advance and be carried on your person while fishing.
Fishing gear is available for rent at several locations along the trail.
Trail Difficulty and Safety
The Paul Bunyan Trail is built on an older rail line, meaning that the trail is relatively flat with most sections having
a grade of no more than 3%. This makes for an easy trail for most to ride. Depending on the levels of spring
runoff, the trail at Hackensack may be detoured through the community if the trail is too wet for safe travel. This
will mean sharing the road with motorized vehicles.
BICYCLING SAFETY & YOUNG CHILDREN
Children who are riding on their own bikes should be at least 8 and able to ride ten to twelve miles between
communities. We recommend renting a third wheel for children who may tire too quickly. Helmets are strongly
recommended for all bikers. On escorted tours, helmets and water bottles are required and provided as part of
Minnesota Cycling tour services.
Bike Tour Options at Minnesota Cycling
DAY TRIPS
The most popular one day tour is from Walker to Bemidji. This trip is 37 miles and usually takes six hours to
complete. We start at Walker and enjoy the scenic overlooks, stopping for a break and snack at LaPorte. After
another 7 miles we will be arrive in Guthrie where we will find a hot meal ready for us. Our lunch spot is on the
shores of Bauer Lake, a small quiet lake nestled in a birch grove. From Guthrie the trail takes us to Bemidji through
oak and maples, across bridges and plains. Well find cold beverages awaiting us in Bemidji and tour members can
ride back to their vehicles in Walker.
MULTI-DAY TRIPS
The most popular multi-day trip is a round trip from Walker to Pequot Lakes, a total of about 60 miles, with a
lakeside camp at Pequot Lakes for the evening. However, with 100 miles of trail to explore, their are many ways to
enjoy a multi-day trip. Call Minnesota Cycling for assistance with planning an overnight cycling adventure.
Trail Mileage
This reference chart shows the most popular tours. Please note that Time Required to complete a trip can vary
due to the weather conditions, and the speed and skill of the cyclists.
Bike Tour
# of Miles
Time Required
Baxter to Nisswa
12 miles
1 to 2 hours
18 miles
2 to 2.5 hours
Baxter to Hackensack
47 miles
5 to 8 hours
Walker to Bemidji
37 miles
4 to 6 hours
Brainerd to Bemidji
104 miles
Baxter to Walker
62 miles
Bike Rental
BIKES & EQUIPMENT
Road, mountain and tandem bikes, as well as third wheels, are available for rent at all locations. Helmets and
sterilized water bottles are included in your rental.
WHICH BIKE IS FOR YOU
Bike mechanics are available to fit bikes for you. They will also assist you in deciding on the style of bike that is
best for your purpose. Tandems are good for two bikers who both contribute to the pedaling, while third wheels are
better if the second rider does not contribute.
Recumbent bicycles and tricycles are available for rent only at the Baxter location. The tricycle is an interesting
alternative to bicycling. Helmets and water bottles are included with these also.
Groups who are going to travel together should be using similar style of bikes, since the speed you travel is
somewhat controlled by the gearing of the bike. The weather also can influence the choice of bike, since some road
bikes are not good on wet surfaces.
Trip Dates &Starting Points
DAY TRIPS
Guided trips start at 10:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m. and 6 p.m. on weekends from April 15 through October 15
and daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Bike rentals are available for self guided trips from 8 a.m. in April and
October, and from 7 a.m. from May through September. Since the summer weekends are the busiest time,
reservations are recommended.
Pickup for cyclists and bikes are available from noon to 10:00 p.m. each day. Leave an itinerary and pick up a
signal transmitter as you leave our shop. This will allow you to let us know you are ready for pickup in an area with
minimal cell phone service.
Trash & Other Regulations
FEES: Vary from $15.75 to $49.50 per night, depending on services and time of week.
SERVICES: Tent sites have a fire pit or fire grate, picnic table, electricity and water; sites for trailers include sewer
hook-up. Campgrounds have pay shower, phone access, laundry and various types of activities including boat
rentals and hay rides.
RESERVATIONS: The campsightscampsites can be reserved by phoning the site. Late comers are welcome if space
remains.
CAMPING ALONG THE TRAIL: Backcountry camping is permitted on state lands. This type of camping is the
ultimate wilderness experience. However, it requires knowledge of the wildlife and should not be attempted by a
first time camper. Contact the Minnesota DNR for backcountry camping tips. Remember that this is bear
country.
Plan Your Trip Now!
Pick your options from the chart below: (Personalized itineraries are available.)
Starting
Point
Ending
Point
Number of
Hours/Days
Guide
(up to 8
people)
Rental
Road,
mountain
Rental
Tandem,
recumbent
Third
Wheel
Baxter
Nisswa
4 hours
$50
$25
$45
$10
Year
Walker
Bemidji
6 hours
$65
$35
$55
$12
Brainerd
Bemidji
2 3 days
$150
$75
$120
$40
Baxter
Pequot
Lakes
3 hours
$40
$20
$35
$10
Baxter
Walker
1 day
$75
$40
$60
$15
Home Address
City
Names of People in
Your Party
Ag
e
State
Zip Code