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United States
Minnesota
Crow Wing County

Nisswa

The best cycling routes around Nisswa

4.8

(5)

46

riders

5

rides

Touring cycling around Nisswa offers extensive paved trails and diverse natural landscapes, characterized by numerous freshwater lakes and pine tree-lined areas. The region is a central hub for prominent cycling routes, including the Paul Bunyan State Trail, one of the longest continuously paved rail-trails in the United States. Cyclists can experience serene lake views, wetlands, meadows, and dense pine forests, with routes often featuring generally level terrain. Pillsbury State Forest, located nearby, provides additional routes through rolling hills and heavily…

Last updated: October 7, 2026

4.7

(3)

18

riders

#1.

Paul Bunyan Trail, Nisswa loop from Northland Arboretum

53.0km

02:58

110m

110m

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

6

riders

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

3

riders

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

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Popular around Nisswa

Road Cycling Routes around Nisswa

Tips from the Community

Vincent Reboul
September 9, 2023, Brainerd

For those who have watched the Cohen brothers' film Fargo, you may recognize certain scenes from this 1996 cinematic hit in Brainerd. I long thought that it was largely filmed in North Dakota in unaware that the film's urban scenes were largely created here. Brainerd, which has a population of 14,400, is crossed by the Mississippi River. The old part of the city which is located east of the river has some interesting buildings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available around Nisswa?

There are 5 touring cycling routes available around Nisswa, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 3 easy routes and 2 moderate routes to explore the area.

What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Nisswa?

The best time for touring cycling in Nisswa is typically from spring through fall. The region is especially beautiful in autumn when the deciduous and coniferous trees in areas like Pillsbury State Forest display vibrant fall foliage. Summer offers pleasant conditions for enjoying the numerous lakes.

Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Nisswa?

Yes, the Paul Bunyan State Trail, which passes through Nisswa, is known for being family-friendly. It offers a generally level and paved surface, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Routes like the Paul Bunyan Trail, Nisswa loop from Jenkins are easy options.

What kind of scenery can I expect on the touring cycling routes?

Nisswa's touring cycling routes offer diverse and picturesque scenery. You can expect serene lake views, wetlands, meadows, and tree-lined paths, particularly through pine forests. The Paul Bunyan Trail winds past numerous lakes, while routes in Pillsbury State Forest feature rolling hills and heavily forested areas.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?

Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, you can try the Paul Bunyan Trail, Nisswa loop from Northland Arboretum, which is a moderate 53 km ride, or the easier Paul Bunyan Trail, Nisswa loop from Lake Edward Township.

Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in Nisswa?

Nisswa offers convenient access to parking for cyclists. The Paul Bunyan State Trail, a major cycling artery, has various access points and parking facilities along its length, including within Nisswa itself. Many local amenities also provide parking for visitors.

What amenities are available along the cycling routes in Nisswa?

Towns along the trails, such as Nisswa, provide convenient amenities for cyclists. You can find shops, eateries for refreshments, and even bicycle and skate rentals. These stops are ideal for breaks during longer rides.

Are there opportunities for wildlife viewing while cycling?

Yes, the natural landscapes around Nisswa offer opportunities for wildlife viewing. The numerous lakes and forested areas are home to various bird species and beaver. Keep an eye out for wildflowers, including the yellow lady's slipper, especially in Pillsbury State Forest.

What is the difficulty level of the touring cycling routes in Nisswa?

The touring cycling routes around Nisswa range from easy to moderate. The Paul Bunyan State Trail is generally level, making it accessible for many. Routes like the Bike loop from Mud Lake offer a moderate challenge with some elevation changes.

What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Nisswa?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paved trails, the scenic lake views, and the peaceful forested sections, particularly along the Paul Bunyan State Trail.

Are there any routes that connect Nisswa to other communities?

Yes, the Paul Bunyan State Trail is a major connector, stretching 120 miles and linking Nisswa to communities from Crow Wing State Park to Lake Bemidji State Park. Additionally, the developing Gull Lake Trail is expanding connections around Gull Lake.

Can I find more challenging routes near Nisswa?

While most touring routes are easy to moderate, areas like Pillsbury State Forest offer routes with more rolling hills and varied terrain through heavily forested areas, which can provide a more challenging experience for touring cyclists.

Most popular routes around Nisswa

Road Cycling Routes around Nisswa

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