The best traffic-free bike rides in Pillsbury State Forest

There are 4 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes available in the Pillsbury State Forest area. These routes range from easy to moderate difficulty, offering options for various skill levels.

The no-traffic routes in and around Pillsbury State Forest primarily utilize paved surfaces. This includes dedicated paved bike trails like sections of the Paul Bunyan Trail and the Heartland State Trail, as well as paved loops in areas like East Gull Lake, ensuring a smooth ride away from vehicle traffic.

Yes, there are family-friendly options. Two of the routes are rated as easy, making them suitable for families. For example, the Nisswa Gazebo and City Hall – Paul Bunyan Trail, Nisswa loop from Garden Cottages is an easy 30 km ride, perfect for a relaxed family outing on paved surfaces.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the routes, the scenic views of the lakes and forests, and the opportunity to cycle without the disturbance of car traffic.

The wider Brainerd Lakes Area, which encompasses Pillsbury State Forest, offers several towns with amenities. Nisswa and East Gull Lake are particularly convenient, providing access to cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options close to many of the cycling routes.

The best time for road cycling in Pillsbury State Forest is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the natural scenery, including diverse forests and wildflowers, is at its most vibrant.

While the routes themselves focus on car-free cycling, the surrounding Pillsbury State Forest and Brainerd Lakes Area are rich in natural beauty. You can expect to cycle through diverse forests of aspen, oak, and pine, past numerous lakes like Rock Lake and Shafer Lake, and potentially spot wildlife. The historic Pillsbury Tower also offers panoramic views of the forest.

Yes, several of the no-traffic road cycling routes are designed as loops. For instance, the Roadbike loop from East Gull Lake offers a moderate 54 km circular ride, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your path.

The longest no-traffic road cycling route listed is the Roadbike loop from East Gull Lake, covering approximately 54.5 km (33.9 miles) with a moderate difficulty rating.

Yes, there are two moderate difficulty routes. The Roadbike loop from East Gull Lake is a 54.5 km route, and the Nisswa Gazebo and City Hall loop from North at Grand View is a 20 km route, both offering a good challenge for road cyclists.

Public transportation options directly to Pillsbury State Forest or the specific starting points of these cycling routes are limited. It is generally recommended to access the area by car, especially given the regional nature of the trails.

The elevation gain varies by route. For example, the Roadbike loop from East Gull Lake has an elevation gain of approximately 275 meters, while the Nisswa Gazebo and City Hall – Paul Bunyan Trail, Nisswa loop from Garden Cottages has a more gentle gain of about 82 meters, suitable for easier rides.