Over the past several years, the Cuyuna Lakes mountain bike trail system has become somewhat of a big deal in my home state. The 50-mile trail system covers over 800 acres in beautiful lake country. Having gone through two years of my college education in the Brainerd Lakes area, I look for any reason to get back up there. So it’s no wonder it was one of the first items I was eager to check out in the list of 50 locations that make up the MN Adventure Bucket List. The scratch off card directs you to Cykel Bike Shop in Ironton, which dang near sits you on the trail system. I arrived shortly after they opened for the day, and the gentleman working was so kind and so helpful. He explained that there are several levels of bicycles available for rent, and suggested I rent the level two bike, even upgrading me to a level three for no additional charge. The man ensured the bike was adjusted properly and explained how to navigate the trail system. He even stepped outside when he noticed me trying to set my camera up to snag a picture and offered to help.
I set out to follow the Galloping Goose trail. Beginning and ending in the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, this six-mile trail provides some spectacular views of Huntington Mine Lake. Don’t let the “easy” rating of this trail fool you, it IS a workout! I’m no Olympic Athlete but working out 3-4 times per week I like to think I’m in ok shape. I was DRIPPING sweat within just a mile or two of this ride. The card suggests a “bonus” of making a swim stop along the route, something I didn’t think I’d partake in. I found myself stripping my shoes off though and dunking my face/hair in the refreshing clean water somewhere just beyond the halfway point though. Having rained the night before, the trails were slick, adding to the adrenaline of the steep declines and switchbacks. Gratefully, I concluded my ride with just a few scratches and bruises. Biking 7.5 miles of the trail took me 1.5 hours and left me with a “runner’s high” feeling that I only get after select workouts. If I ever move back to the Brainerd Lakes area, I will be visiting Cykel again to make my own mountain bike purchase. What an absolute gem for this small town!
