U.S. Bicycle Route 41

For Minnesota's vibrant cycling community, U.S. Bicycle Route 41, aptly named the North Star Bicycle Route, represents an extraordinary opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of our state on two wheels. This isn't a traditional "cycling park" with a confined set of trails, but rather a meticulously planned, long-distance bicycle route that weaves its way across 315 miles of Minnesota, from the bustling capital city of St. Paul all the way to the serene Canadian border at Grand Portage State Park. It's an epic journey that combines scenic roadways with dedicated off-road trails, offering a unique and immersive experience for those who love to cycle.

The North Star Bicycle Route is more than just a path; it's a gateway to Minnesota's natural wonders and charming communities. It provides an avenue for multi-day tours, challenging self-supported rides, or simply an opportunity to explore different segments for a day trip. Designed by MnDOT in partnership with various local agencies and advocacy groups, USBR 41 showcases the state's commitment to active transportation and outdoor recreation, making it a proud achievement for our local cycling infrastructure.

While portions are accessible for less experienced riders on paved trails, the route is largely intended for adult bicyclists with several years of experience, emphasizing defensive cycling due to shared road segments. This ensures that those who embark on this journey are prepared for the varied conditions and truly get to appreciate the vast beauty and unique character of Minnesota, from its urban centers to its dramatic North Shore. It's a route that truly allows you to experience the "North Star State" up close and personal.

U.S. Bicycle Route 41, the North Star Bicycle Route, officially begins in Saint Paul at the junction of USBR 45 / Mississippi River Trail. While a specific physical "park" address is listed as 494 Shepard Rd, St Paul, MN 55102, USA, this address serves more as a general reference point for the route's starting vicinity in the capital city. The route itself spans across the entire state, traveling northward approximately 315 miles to its end at Grand Portage State Park, right at the Minnesota/Canadian border.

Accessibility to U.S. Bicycle Route 41 is multifaceted, given its extensive length. In urban areas like St. Paul and Duluth, the route seamlessly integrates with existing city bike lanes and regional trails, making it highly accessible for local residents to join various segments. Many parts of the route are "on existing roads and mixed-use paths and trails," with nearly half of it following "state, regional, and local trails." This means that depending on your starting point, you might access it directly from a city bike path, a state trail, or a designated road shoulder.

For those looking to embark on longer sections, convenient access points are available in numerous towns and state parks along the route. Parking facilities are typically available at trailheads within state parks or in municipal areas that the route passes through. It's important for riders to plan their access points and consider how they will reach specific segments, as the route is designed for continuous travel rather than a single fixed "park" entrance.

U.S. Bicycle Route 41, as a designated long-distance bicycle route, provides a framework for cycling adventures rather than direct "services" in the way a typical park might. However, its design and integration with existing infrastructure offer numerous indirect benefits and access to services for cyclists along its path. These are inherent in its planning and execution:

• Comprehensive Route Mapping and Signage: MnDOT provides detailed panel maps and turn-by-turn instructions (available in PDF format for both northbound and southbound travel) to help cyclists navigate the 315-mile route. The route is also signed, featuring USBR 41 shields (M1-9 signage) to guide riders.

• Connection to Existing Trails: A significant "service" is its utilization of nearly half existing "state, regional, and local trails," including portions of the Gitchi-Gami State Trail. This allows for dedicated off-road riding in many segments, enhancing safety and enjoyment, especially for less experienced riders.

• Access to Amenities in Towns: The route is designed to connect to communities and points of interest, which means riders can access local services such as "lodging/camping, groceries/restaurants, bike shops/hardware stores, libraries, etc." in towns along the way like Hinckley, Duluth, Two Harbors, and Grand Marais.

• Integration with State Parks and National Monuments: USBR 41 passes through or connects to nine Minnesota State Parks (e.g., Gooseberry Falls, Split Rock Lighthouse, Tettegouche, Cascade River State Park) and two national parks (Mississippi National River and Recreation Area and Grand Portage National Monument). These locations often offer camping, restrooms, and visitor services.

• Diverse Riding Surfaces: The route offers a mix of paved surfaces (approximately 94%) and some unpaved sections, providing varied riding experiences. Paved sections include road shoulders (generally 4 feet wide or greater) and dedicated trails.

• Elevation Profile Information: The provided panel maps include elevation profiles, allowing riders to anticipate climbs and descents, which is an invaluable service for planning their ride and managing energy.

The U.S. Bicycle Route 41, or the North Star Bicycle Route, is packed with features and highlights that make it a truly remarkable cycling journey through Minnesota.

• Epic 315-Mile Journey: The sheer length of the route, connecting St. Paul to the Canadian border, is a major highlight, offering an opportunity for an extended and immersive cycling adventure across the state.

• Diverse Landscapes: Riders experience a remarkable variety of Minnesota's natural beauty, from the urban landscapes of St. Paul and Duluth to the scenic North Shore of Lake Superior with its dramatic cliffs, lighthouses, and state parks, and inland through forests and rural areas.

• Combination of Trails and Roads: Roughly half the route is on "state and regional trails," providing comfortable, often flat riding surfaces (many on abandoned railroad grades), while the other half utilizes "shoulders of paved roads or on shared lanes," offering a mix of dedicated paths and road cycling experiences.

• North Shore Immersion: A significant portion of USBR 41 closely follows the North Shore of Lake Superior, incorporating nearly 10 miles of Duluth's city trails and approximately 30 miles of the Gitchi-Gami State Trail. This provides unparalleled views of the largest freshwater lake by volume in the world.

• Connection to Major Attractions: The route strategically passes by or provides access to numerous points of interest, including nine Minnesota State Parks (like Gooseberry Falls, Split Rock Lighthouse, Tettegouche), two National Parks (Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, Grand Portage National Monument), and cultural stops such as the Snake River Fur Post and the Hinckley Fire Museum.

• Gateway to International Connection: The route culminates at Grand Portage State Park at the Canadian border, offering a unique sense of accomplishment and a dramatic endpoint to a long-distance ride, with views of Minnesota's highest waterfall on the Pigeon River.

• Suitable for Experienced Cyclists: While some trail segments are beginner-friendly, the overall route is designed for "adult bicyclists with a driver's license and several years of bicycling experience," ensuring that those undertaking the full journey are prepared for varying road conditions and traffic interactions.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding U.S. Bicycle Route 41 (the North Star Bicycle Route), including detailed maps, route conditions, and planning resources, the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) is the primary authority. They oversee the designation and provide comprehensive information for this U.S. Bicycle Route.

While the route itself doesn't have a direct phone number, general inquiries related to Minnesota's U.S. Bicycle Route System can be directed to MnDOT. The listed address of 494 Shepard Rd, St Paul, MN 55102, USA, is a general reference point in St. Paul, but it's not a visitor center for the route.

It is highly recommended for prospective riders to visit the official MnDOT website dedicated to the North Star Bicycle Route (USBR 41) for downloadable maps, elevation profiles, and important advisories regarding construction or trail conditions. Additionally, organizations like the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota and Adventure Cycling Association often provide supplementary resources and community insights.

U.S. Bicycle Route 41, the North Star Bicycle Route, is exceptionally suitable for locals in Minnesota because it offers an unparalleled opportunity to truly experience the depth and breadth of our home state from the unique vantage point of a bicycle. Unlike a contained "cycling park," this route is an expansive journey that integrates seamlessly with our existing landscapes and communities, providing a rich and rewarding experience for various types of riders.

For the adventurous Minnesotan, USBR 41 provides a significant challenge and an incredible opportunity for multi-day bike touring right in our own backyard. It eliminates the need for extensive travel to distant destinations for a long-distance cycling adventure, making an epic ride achievable and accessible. The diverse terrain, from urban trails in St. Paul and Duluth to the stunning North Shore and serene inland forests, ensures that every mile offers new scenery and a fresh perspective on Minnesota's natural beauty.

While portions of the route are on shared roadways, which require experienced riders, the integration of "nearly half the route" on dedicated state and regional trails makes it approachable for those who prefer off-road sections. This adaptability allows locals to choose segments that match their comfort and skill levels, whether they're planning a challenging bikepacking trip or a leisurely day ride on a paved trail. The connectivity to numerous state parks also means easy access to amenities like camping, picnicking, and additional recreational opportunities, enhancing the overall experience.

Furthermore, the existence and maintenance of USBR 41 reflect Minnesota's commitment to promoting active lifestyles and sustainable travel. It encourages locals to embrace cycling as a means of both recreation and exploration, fostering a stronger connection to our state's geography and history. For Minnesotans, this route isn't just a "cycling park"; it's a testament to our state's natural grandeur and a fantastic invitation to discover it one pedal stroke at a time.

U.S. Bicycle Route 41

494 Shepard Rd, St Paul, MN 55102, USA