2 weeks Ago By Zach White
For those looking to hit the trails this spring, you'll need to put a temporary pin in your dirt-path adventures. In a recent announcement, the City of Duluth Parks and Recreation division has put the kibosh on all natural surface trails due to the spring thaw cycle making them exceptionally vulnerable. The soil, currently as impressionable as wet clay, can't handle the stress of boots and bike tires without risking serious damage.
Notably, these closures encompass popular spots like the Duluth Traverse and the Superior Hiking Trail. The City has made it clear that they intend to fully re-open these trails for public use but only when conditions are no longer a threat to their integrity. Until then, trail enthusiasts are strongly advised to respect the closure signs dotted across these fragile areas.
We all should try to collectively prevent further trail erosion or infrastructure damage - even if that means temporarily curbing our appetite for the great outdoors. But it's not all doom and gloom for outdoor aficionados; select trails are still fully operational. Your hiking boots might be in temporary retirement, but your bike tires or walking shoes can still find the pavement on trails such as the Willard Munger State Trail or the Marten Trail.
These sturdier surfaces are designed to withstand Minnesota's fickle spring whims and remain open to all. Winter sports enthusiasts can breathe a sigh of relief, too. Cross-country ski trails across the city are holding their own, with enough snow coverage to keep them open for skiing.
However, hikers should note that whiling away on ski trails with boots rather than skis remains strictly off-limits. This is to ensure skiers can continue to safely enjoy the tail ends of winter. Those eager to embrace the chillier pastimes should absolutely take advantage before the snow waves farewell.
In the interim, Duluthians and visitors alike are encouraged to enjoy the paved and gravel paths that wind through the city. Notable mentions like the Cross-City Trail and the Duluth Lakewalk beckon with open arms. While waiting for mother nature to firm up the dirt paths, these alternative routes offer a respite from the muddy season and a slice of the outdoors.
For the full breakdown of closures and open trails, the City's statement can be found in detail on their website ..
