Superior Hiking Trail in Duluth
One of my favorite things while visiting Duluth is how much access I had to the Superior Hiking Trail without leaving town, and how varied the sections were. Another favorite thing was kayaking in Lake Superior and play with ice… but that’s another story... and you can read about my must-try activities to do while visiting Duluth here.
In the meantime, let me let you about some sections of the Superior Hiking Trail I was able to run on on several visits, at different times of year.
View from the trail at the Rock Hill Overlook, on the University campus.
Here are the sections of the Superior Hiking Trail that I have done in town, from West to East:
Spirit Mountain Recreation Area
Starting at the parking lot of the Spirit Mountain Recreation Area, it is easy to find the trail, and going west will give you beautiful views. These photos are from June, and the trail is pretty lush, as you can see.
This section if moderately difficult, starting downhill and then going back up, but beautiful throughout, with occasional viewpoints overlooking the St Louis River.
After a couple of miles, there is a short section on the road, so be aware of traffic, but then you’re back on the trail for more woodsy adventure!
Brewer Park
Don’t think that just because it’s winter you can’t get on the trail, on the contrary! Bring your snowshoes if the level of snow requires that, or good boots/running shoes and get out there!
There’s a different beauty to the trail when it’s covered in snow, and the views are different than in the summer, as you can see much that was previously hidden behind foliage.
Make sure you’re wearing the proper clothes to stay warm, bring some water, and go explore!
Pictured here is the section going through Brewer Park, on the western part of town. We parked at the Skyline Trailhead and ran east.
Chester Park
I think my favorite thing about this section was following Chester Creek, with the trail sometimes going right next to it, or sometimes allowing you to see a waterfall.
This section is moderately difficult, and very much in the middle of town, though you’d never guess it once you’re inside Chester Park, or even Lower Chester Park.
My second favorite thing about this section was how delicious our meal at Burrito Union was after a long run!
Hartley Nature Center
This section is on the northern side of town, above the university grounds, and because of how high it is, there are several lookout points with neat views of Lake Superior.
There is even a Superior Hiking Trail spur that leads to Rock Knob… if you don’t mind an extra out-and-back section!
Closer to W Arrowhead Rd, the trail is narrow and rocky, but gets wider, especially as you get close to the Nature Center. For this reason in particular, it would make a great segment to explore on snowshoes.
I can’t wait to go back and explore more of the trail. Have you been? Have you done any of the sections above? If so, let me know in the comments below!