The Northwoods Route
Before the first snows of winter blanketed the Upper Midwest in the fall of 2019, we investigated more than 800 miles of potential options for the Northwoods Route. And in 2020, more than 40 volunteers rode the route to provide feedback and help with further research. When completed in 2021, this route will be roughly 700 miles in length, primarily following gravel roads and relatively smooth two-tracks through thick forests along countless lakes of all sizes. Singletrack networks along the way will add options for riders looking for more technical riding opportunities.
The diversity of land use, scenery, and riding across northern Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan is magnificent. The small communities and both new and established trail systems along the way all have very unique flavors. And combined conservation and recreation visions in some areas along the way are heading in a new direction that addresses the spectrum of stakeholder needs and desires.
What's the ideal time of year to ride?
The full loop can be ridden from mid-May until late September. Sections of the route could be rideable earlier or later in the season, but the ferry connection required for the full loop only runs from late spring until mid autumn.
The diversity of land use, scenery, and riding across northern Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan is magnificent. The small communities and both new and established trail systems along the way all have very unique flavors. And combined conservation and recreation visions in some areas along the way are heading in a new direction that addresses the spectrum of stakeholder needs and desires.
What's the ideal time of year to ride?
The full loop can be ridden from mid-May until late September. Sections of the route could be rideable earlier or later in the season, but the ferry connection required for the full loop only runs from late spring until mid autumn.
