13 Easy Hikes You Can Take On Trails In Duluth
Duluth is known for many things. With so many amazing tourist attractions and a location right on Lake Superior, there is no shortage of reasons to get outside and soak it all in.
Another big reason people love Duluth: the hiking trails! There are so many different hiking trails in and around Duluth. The trails run from easy to tough depending on where you are hiking.
Many of Duluth's trails also have sights to see, with sweeping views of the city or Lake Superior. Many trails also have ponds, trees, critters, creeks and more. Whether you are a tourist or a Duluth resident, it's always a good idea to hit the trails.
If you have friends in town, want to get outdoors or just want to take in some fresh air, there are plenty of easy hikes in the Duluth area. Here are thirteen of those easy hikes you can take in Duluth:
13 Easy Hiking Trail Options In Duluth
Hartley Trails
The Hartley Trails are located within Hartley Park, a 660-acre park that has everything a nature lover could ever want: trees, bodies of water, trails and of course, great views. It also has Hartley Nature Center, which makes your experience even better. There are also several different trails you can choose from with a handful of easier routes that range in length. There's something for everyone!
Ely's Peak
Ely's Peak is a popular tourist destination and a favorite for locals. The trail is just under two miles and has incredible views of the city from the top. It is short and sweet and the payoff when you get to the top is incredible.
Chester Bowl Trails
Chester Bowl is located in beautiful Chester Park, a beautiful area nestled right in the heart of the city. There are a bunch of different trails for you to trek in Chester Bowl and within the park, with over six miles of trails for your hiking pleasure. Some of these trails are a breeze, including one of the most popular: the nearly three-mile Chester Park Loop.
Congdon Park Trails
Some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the city can be found in Congdon Park. While the hiking is fun, it's what you will see on your hike that is the real prize: there are waterfalls, bridges and great views of the Glensheen. The trail is about a mile and a half and is perfect for a beginner.
Brewer Park Loop (Superior Hiking Trail)
Brewer Park is located along the Superior Hiking Trail and the views are incredible, as it takes you right above Skyline Parkway. It is easy to follow, as it is just one big loop, and is about three and a half miles. You'll go through it all, including tunnels and forests.
Downer Park Trail (Superior Hiking Trail)
Starting at Vermillion Road, this trail is part of the famous Superior Hiking Trail. The hiking trails run about five miles, including through the park it is named after. It has great scenery, features a river and is pretty much one straight line.
The Lakewalk
This isn't your average hike but it still counts! The Lakewalk is arguably the most famous hike you can take in Duluth. Located in the Canal Park area, you can stroll right along the shores of Lake Superior. The entirety of it is just over seven miles long but you can hike it for as long or as little as you want.
Bagley Nature Center Trails
This scenic hike is pretty straightforward, with a two-mile trail taking you through the Bagley Nature area. There are a few different routes you can take with plenty to see. There is Rock Pond which provides a scenic experience and Rock Hill Observation Point with views of UMD and the lake.
Lincoln Park Trail
Another gorgeous and easy hike can be found in Lincoln Park. The Lincoln Park Trail is easy at just about one and a half miles. You will be hiking along Miller Creek at times and you may even see Duluth's very first playground which is pretty cool!
Park Point Trail
Similar to the Lakewalk, this is another trail that isn't your average hike. Located at the end of Minnesota Avenue, it has views of Lake Superior that can't be beat as you hike right along the shore. You can hike up to four and a half miles!
Lester Park Trail
Lester Park is absolutely beautiful and has over nine miles of trails. There are different routes and loops you can take with views all around. Located between Amity Creek and Lester River, you can also take a little trek down Seven Bridges Road.
Grassy Point Trail
This is one of the easiest hikes on this list! Grassy Point Trail is located along the St. Louis River, which provides amazing scenery. This hike will take you along a boardwalk and as of spring 2022, will be filled with new shrubs, flowers and trees.
Enger Park Trails
Enger Park is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Duluth, thanks in big part to Enger Tower and the American-Japanese Peace Bell. The hiking trails surrounding these attractions and in Enger Park run about three miles and are relatively easy.