Brian Fanelli 2021-12-15 10:55:27
"Once the site of an iron ore mine, Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area has become one of the best mountain bike trail centers in the entire country, attracting 160,000 cyclists annually." With the recent expansion of the North Mahnomen Unit, the recreation area now includes more than 50 miles of singletrack trails spread across 800 acres. Designed by mountain bikers for mountain bikers, the trails wind through the woods and up to elevated areas offering outstanding views of the landscape’s many pit mines-turned-lakes. From the beginner-friendly Galloping Goose to the more advanced Bobsled, the trails cater to all skill levels. “I’d say about 80% of the trail system is pretty family friendly, and there isn’t really any way to accidentally ride a skill level you’re not ready for. It’s pretty clearly marked,” said Patrick Stoffel, co-owner of Red Raven, a bike shop and cafe in Crosby. Those who desire an adrenaline rush will nevertheless find it in the Yawkey Unit, where Bobsled and some of the other most popular trails can be found. Bobsled starts with a short but steep climb up the ridge overlooking Yawkey Mine Lake. It then heads into the woods for a breakneck-paced, berm-filled, adrenaline-fueled rocket ride back down to the bottom, leaving no doubt about where it got its name. WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK NEARBY In refurbished red-brick storefronts across downtown, places like Cuyuna Brewing Co., Red Raven and the farm-to-table Iron Range Eatery have injected new life into the town’s dining options. Nothing tastes better after a long day of riding than a perfectly balanced Yawkey Ale from Cuyuna Brewing, and there’s no better place to rest your legs than the patio at Iron Range Eatery. ABOUT 80% OF THE TRAIL SYSTEM IS PRETTY FAMILY FRIENDLY. Meanwhile, long-standing businesses like North Country Cafe and Spalding House Bar continue to serve up old-school tastes and traditions that never go out of style. These are places where you can fuel up in the morning with the biggest pancakes you’ve ever seen and wind down in the evening with a stiff drink and a meat raffle. They’ve been here since before the trails, and there’s nothing like pulling up a barstool at these venerable Crosby institutions and biting into the town’s history. WHERE TO STAY One of the more eye-catching places to stay in town is True North Basecamp, which has made a splash online with its endlessly Instagrammable “north woods industrial” rental cabins. Each of the six, 275-square-foot cabins has one full-and three twin-sized beds, high-speed internet access, integrated USB charging ports and temperature control for year-round comfort— the perfect blend of wilderness and Wi-Fi. For a more rustic stay, book a campsite in the Portsmouth Campground or reserve one of three yurts overlooking Yawkey Mine Lake. The round insulated canvas yurts sleep seven in bunk beds and a futon. Other furnishings include a table and chairs and a wood stove. Reservations can be made up to 120 days in advance at mndnr.gov/reservations. WINTER FAT BIKING If you’re looking for a fun new way to embrace the Minnesota winter, riding a fat bike will put a smile on your face that’s even bigger than your tires. Most mountain bike trails in Minnesota are groomed for winter, and wide tires will make you feel ready to ride through anything. In addition to Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, notable winter fat biking trail destinations in Minnesota include Theodore Wirth Park in Minneapolis, Detroit Mountain in Detroit Lakes and Spirit Mountain in Duluth. MORE BIKE TRAILS Gear up for adventure on Minnesota’s extensive paved and off-road bike trails! ExploreMinnesota.com/Biking
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