The Gitchi-Gami State Trail has officially secured a spot among the country’s top 20 recreational destinations, earning a prestigious nomination in the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Recreational Trail.
This 36-mile paved pathway, which traces the rugged beauty of Lake Superior’s North Shore, is now competing for the title of the best trail in the United States.
According to an article by The Rock of Rochester, public voting opened on March 9, 2026, and will remain active through April 6, 2026, allowing supporters to cast one vote daily throughout the four-week period to help the trail claim the number one ranking.
Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Gitchi-Gami State Trail offers a world-class experience for cyclists, runners, hikers, and skaters.
The route showcases some of the most dramatic scenery in the Midwest, including sweeping views of Lake Superior, the Temperance River Gorge, and the Beaver Bay Bridge.
Beyond the views, the trail is designed for a seamless outdoor experience, featuring bike maintenance stations, interpretive kiosks, and rest stops that cater to visitors exploring the North Shore landscape.
The current 36-mile trail serves as a critical connector for outdoor enthusiasts, linking five state parks, four scientific and natural areas, and the vibrant lakeside communities of Silver Bay, Schroeder, Lutsen, and Grand Marais.
This connectivity allows visitors to plan multi-day excursions with easy access to local amenities and diverse recreational options.
As the trail gains national recognition, it continues to draw travelers seeking a high-quality, accessible way to immerse themselves in the unique terrain where solid rock meets the Great Lakes.
This nomination highlights the long-term vision for the Gitchi-Gami, which began in the late 1980s as a grassroots effort to create a safe, paved alternative to the narrow shoulders of Highway 61.
While 36 miles are currently complete, the project uses a phased “pearl necklace” approach with the ultimate goal of creating a continuous 86-mile route stretching from Two Harbors to Grand Marais.
As new segments open, the trail increasingly positions the North Shore as a premier national destination for eco-conscious travel and sustainable outdoor recreation.