Superior National Forest, Arrowhead Region Travel Guide

Getting There

• Car

  If you are traveling by car, start your journey from the nearest city in the Arrowhead Region. For example, if you're in Ely, MN, head northwest on MN-1 W for about 23 miles until you reach the junction with MN-61. Turn left onto MN-61 S and continue for approximately 50 miles. After passing through the town of Two Harbors, keep following MN-61 S. Eventually, take a right onto MN-1 S, which will lead you directly into the Superior National Forest area. Look for signs indicating entry points to the forest.

• Public Transportation

  For those using public transportation, take a bus from Duluth to Two Harbors through the Arrowhead Transit service. Once in Two Harbors, you can take a taxi or rideshare service to reach the nearest entry point of Superior National Forest. Be sure to check the Arrowhead Transit schedule, as services may be limited on weekends. The taxi ride from Two Harbors to the forest entrance may cost around $30-$50, so budget accordingly.

• Bicycle

  For the more adventurous, biking to Superior National Forest can be a rewarding experience. From Duluth, take the scenic Lakewalk trail to reach the North Shore Scenic Drive (MN-61). Follow MN-61 N for about 50 miles, enjoying the beautiful views along the way. This route is suitable for experienced cyclists and may take several hours, so plan for rest stops and bring plenty of water and snacks.

• Hiking

  If you are staying close to the forest and want to hike, consider starting from a nearby trailhead. For instance, from the city of Ely, you can hike the Taconite State Trail, which connects with various trails leading into Superior National Forest. Make sure to pack essentials like water, snacks, and a map, as this can be a multi-day hike depending on your route.