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Duluth’s natural surface trails closed during unseasonably warm temperatures

[DULUTH, MN] In collaboration with the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA) and the Cyclists of Gitchee Gumee Shores (COGGS), the City of Duluth Parks and Recreation division is recommending closure of all its natural surface (dirt) trails until further notice due to unseasonably warm temperatures. Overnight below-freezing temperatures combined with daytime above-freezing temperatures create wet and vulnerable soil conditions that can damage trails with continued use. Please avoid these trails if the soil is damp or muddy.

“If you see footprints or bike tire ruts in the underlying dirt, then it’s best to turn around and find a different outdoor recreation opportunity,” said Matt Andrews, Parks and Recreation Trails Coordinator. “Until everything is frozen solid again, the trails are highly vulnerable, which could create damage and present erosion issues on the trails.”

The City of Duluth Parks and Recreation division wants to remind the public of winter trail use opportunities. Gravel surface trails will remain open throughout winter, including the Duluth Winnipeg Pacific (DWP) Trail and Waabizheshikana (formerly Western Waterfront Trail). While these trails are open, they will not be plowed. Paved surface trails that include the Campus Connector Trail, Lakewalk, and Cross-City Trail, are cleared of snow and will remain open regardless of weather conditions.

The City of Duluth anticipates fully reopening natural surface trails once the ground has completely frozen and surface conditions allow. To learn more about the City of Duluth’s City of Duluth trails, please visit https://duluthmn.gov/parks/parkstrails-bikeways/

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