The Mesabi Trail is a 132 mile paved bicycle trail running from Ely, Minnesota to Grand Rapids, Minnesota. As of 2008, the trail is still under construction with approximately 97 miles of trail will be complete. The trail goes through the many small towns along it, such as Marble (the town), Keewatin, Hibbing, Mountain Iron, Virginia, and Gilbert. Much of the trail runs along abandoned railroad grade.

Events

As of 2005, the Mesabi Trail hosts a long bike ride every year in mid August. Each stop [usually at a town or every so many miles] has fruit, water, granola, and other snacks. In Buhl, there is ice cream. The refreshments are free, as is the food at the ending destination, but there is a fee to ride in this event. It is worth it though! In 2006, the ride was from Gaint's Ridge Ski Resort to Bennet Park in Hibbing. In 2007, the ride was from Marble to Olcott Park in Virginia. Both rides were about from 45 to 52 miles.

The same route was used during the ride of 2008.

Riding Fees

2007: $35.00 per person

2008: $45.00 per person or $110.00 per family

History Signs

Along the Mesabi Trail there are signs that establish the history along it. Most of the signs notice certain areas as important to the Mesabi Range's early mining economy.

External links

• Mesabi Trail Website