Five of The Best Intermediate Spring Hiking Destinations in the Midwest

Somewhere between the Appalachian and the Rocky Mountains lies the Midwest: an area of serene beauty, unpredictable weather, and hiking destinations that rival any in the continental U.S. In the upper Midwest, you’ll find thick forests full of wildlife and, in the warm season, complete with a lush green landscape. Near the Mississippi River, you’ll find rolling hills, cliffs, and ledges. Just as the Midwest is an unpredictable landscape ranging from lakeside dunes and flatlands to ambitious inclines, the range of hiking opportunities is wide and versatile. Below, are five of some of our favorite hiking destinations in the Midwestern United States.

1. Superior Hiking Trail, Minnesota

It’s not just the name that makes this hiking trail superior—it’s the view. Though the entire trail goes for some 300 miles, you’ll have a fantastic time starting at Duluth, MN to Lismore Road. Duluth’s view of Lake Superior includes a view of ponds and mixed forestry which means a wide degree of wildlife, from shrubs to towering trees. The flat lakeside land here makes for a quick pace that will allow you to move on for a greater challenge.

Pros: View, Challenge, Variety

Cons: Weather (in off-season)

Congestion: Low

Ideal Time of Year to Hike: Spring, Summer

Total Distance and Duration: ≈300 Miles, 6.9 miles from Duluth to Lismore Road

Trail Uses: Hiking, Running

Dogs Allowed? Yes

Recommended Gear: Day pack, Hiking boots, Ice Ax and Winter Gear in cold months

Elevation at Trailhead: ≈702’ at Duluth, MN

Costs: None

Directions: From website: “From I-35, take 21st Ave. East Exit #258. Turn left on 21st Ave. E. and go 0.7 miles up hill. Turn right on Woodland Ave. and go 1.2 miles. Turn right on Snively Rd. and go 1.0 miles to intersection with Jean Duluth Rd. Continue straight on Jean Duluth Rd. and go 1.9 miles. Turn left on Martin Rd. and go 1.2 miles to trailhead parking lot on left. Overnight parking okay, outhouse at trailhead.”

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