Nashwauk – Hill Annex Mine State Park loop from Pengilly
Nashwauk – Hill Annex Mine State Park loop from Pengilly
3.3
(13)
78
riders
Nashwauk – Hill Annex Mine State Park loop from Pengilly
06:47
112km
620m
Cycling
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: March 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
6.77 km
Nashwauk
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
17.7 km
US Steel Pipeline Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
40.3 km
Hill Annex Mine State Park
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
48.3 km
View of Iron Range Railroad Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
68.3 km
Western Terminus of the Mesabi Trail
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
71.2 km
Grand Rapids
Highlight • River
Tip by
73.8 km
Grand Rapids
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
82.1 km
Prairie River
Highlight • River
Tip by
112 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
97.1 km
8.23 km
3.24 km
2.34 km
1.04 km
Surfaces
100 km
10.1 km
1.11 km
476 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (450 m)
Lowest point (380 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Wednesday 17 June
14°C
9°C
67 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're seeking a challenging touring cycling adventure that delves deep into Minnesota's industrial past, the Nashwauk – Hill Annex Mine State Park loop from Pengilly is a difficult 69.5-mile (111.9 km) route with 2031 feet (619 metres) of climbing, typically taking around 6 hours and 47 minutes. This route is best suited for experienced cyclists with very good fitness, ready for a demanding day exploring the Iron Range.
What to expect on Nashwauk – Hill Annex Mine State Park loop from Pengilly
This route guides you through a landscape profoundly shaped by iron ore mining, offering a unique journey through history and nature. You'll pass through the historic mining town of Nashwauk, situated between inactive open-pit mines, providing a tangible connection to the region's industrial heritage. While much of the ride is on predominantly paved surfaces, including sections of the well-known Mesabi Trail, be prepared for some potentially unpaved segments that could present difficulties and might require you to push your bike. The scenery evolves from wooded areas to striking lakes that were once mine pits, showcasing a blend of natural beauty and human impact. This is a ride for those who appreciate a hard-earned view and the story behind the landscape.
Planning your visit
A critical planning note for this route is the permanent closure of Hill Annex Mine State Park in 2024 due to resumed iron ore mining. While the physical park is no longer accessible, the route still offers insights into the region's mining heritage. There are no specific warnings about permits or timed entry, but given the length and difficulty, ensure you start early in the day. The best time for touring cycling in the Minnesota Iron Range is typically during the warmer, drier months to avoid adverse weather conditions on potentially unpaved sections.
Trail details
- Distance: 69.5 miles (111.9 km)
- Elevation gain: 2031 feet (619 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 6 hours and 47 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free