7
riders
Prairie River – Hill Annex Mine State Park loop from Grand Rapids
03:34
58.0km
390m
Cycling
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: June 1, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
986 m
Western Terminus of the Mesabi Trail
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
6.61 km
Prairie River
Highlight • River
Tip by
21.0 km
View of Iron Range Railroad Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
29.0 km
Hill Annex Mine State Park
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
58.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
55.6 km
2.43 km
Surfaces
58.0 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (450 m)
Lowest point (380 m)
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Weather
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Wednesday 15 July
28°C
19°C
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
The route once known as the Prairie River – Hill Annex Mine State Park loop from Grand Rapids offered a unique touring cycling experience, covering 36.1 miles (58.0 km) with 1294 feet (394 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 34 minutes for a moderate ride. However, as of June 2024, Hill Annex Mine State Park has permanently closed to the public, meaning this specific loop is no longer viable. For touring cyclists looking for similar adventures near Grand Rapids, Minnesota, the extensive network of rail-trails, particularly the Mesabi Trail, provides excellent alternatives.
What to expect for touring cycling near Grand Rapids
While the original loop is inaccessible, the Grand Rapids area still delivers a rich cycling experience. You can expect varied scenery, including tranquil mixed forests, unique tamarack bogs, and areas reclaimed from historical mining operations, all characteristic of Minnesota's Iron Range. Many local trails, like sections of the Mesabi Trail, are former railroad lines, offering smooth, paved surfaces and gentle grades that are perfect for touring cyclists of all abilities. These routes provide a relaxed journey through diverse landscapes, often with scenic views of the region's numerous lakes.
Planning your visit
Given the closure of Hill Annex Mine State Park, your best bet for cycling in the Grand Rapids area is to explore the broader network of state trails. The Mesabi Trail, which runs directly past the former park's location, is a prime example of the region's excellent rail-trail system. These trails are generally well-maintained and offer amenities in connecting towns. Check local resources like visitgrandrapids.com for current trail conditions, access points, and any required trail passes, especially for longer routes like the Mesabi Trail.
Trail details
- Distance: 36.1 miles (58.0 km)
- Elevation gain: 1294 feet (394 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 34 minutes
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