Exploring Brainerd by Bike: A Guide to the Brainerd/Baxter Area

Nestled in the heart of Central Minnesota, Brainerd offers a biking experience that blends natural beauty with road-cycling trails, mountain biking trails, and gravel grinding. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, the Brainerd/Baxter Area provides diverse routes that cater to all skill levels.

Municipal (City) Trails: Miles of Trails to Explore 

The Cities of Baxter and Brainerd have made significant investments and municipal parks and trails for residents and visitors to enjoy. There are miles of trails and trail connections located within the city limits for cyclists to explore.

  • Baxter Parks and Trail Locator HERE
  • Brainerd Trail Locator HERE
  • Brainerd Parks Map HERE
  • Baxter/Brainerd Cycle Corridor Map HERE
  • East Brainerd Trail Map HERE
  • Whipple Beach (Baxter, MN) Map HERE

Paul Bunyan State Trail: A Scenic Tour Through Minnesota

Stretching approximately 120 miles from Crow Wing State Park near Brainerd to Lake Bemidji State Park, the Paul Bunyan State Trail holds the distinction of being the longest continuously paved rail-trail in the United States. This trail offers a relatively flat and smooth ride, making it accessible for families and cyclists of varying abilities.

Along the trail, riders can enjoy picturesque views of forests, lakes, and wetlands. The trail passes through several charming towns including Nisswa, Pequot Lakes, and Pine River which are on the southern half of the trail and make for a nice half- or full-day cycling trip. For those interested in history, the trail corridor is rich with cultural significance, with numerous prehistoric sites nearby.

Paul Bunyan trail Map (Brainerd to Nisswa)

Paul Bunyan State Trail Map (Minnesota DNR)

Northland Arboretum: Nature and Recreation Combined

Located in Brainerd and Baxter, the Northland Arboretum spans 583 acres and offers nearly 20 kilometers of trails suitable for hiking and cross-country skiing. In 2025, the Arb opened a bike park providing a way for riders to improve skills. It is being built in phases and eventually will include a tot track and a mile of adaptive cycling trails through a newly renovated pollinator habitat—it is expected to be the largest bike park in Central Minnesota. Membership is required and can be purchased annually or a daily pass; please check into the Arb’s Visitor Information Center upon arrival.

Mississippi River Trail: A Mighty Journey Along the Mighty Mississippi

The Mississippi River Trail (MRT) is a designated bicycle and pedestrian trail that traverses the shores of the Mississippi River in the United States. The trail extends from the headwaters at Lake Itasca in Minnesota to near the mouth of the river in Venice, Louisiana. Much of the trail’s 3,000 miles follows roadways used by motor vehicles, although some of the route is on multi-use trails. The segment in Minnesota has been designated as U.S. Bicycle Route 45 (USBR 45), part of the U.S. Bicycle Route System, and is roughly 600 miles long from its start at Itasca State Park to its end at the Iowa state border. This trail runs along the Mississippi River in Brainerd/Baxter as well. Find more information and route maps HERE.

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area: Adventure Awaits

For mountain biking enthusiasts, the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, located just east of Brainerd, boasts over 25 miles of purpose-built trails. These trails, carved through the remnants of former iron ore mines, offer varying levels of difficulty, from beginner-friendly paths to challenging routes with steep climbs and technical features.

The unique red dirt trails, a result of the area’s mining history, provide a distinctive riding experience. Beyond the thrill of the ride, cyclists are treated to stunning views of crystal-clear mine lakes and lush forests, making it a must-visit destination for any mountain biker.

Resources for Planning Your Biking Adventure

Before setting out, it’s advisable to check trail conditions and closures; the weather; find lodging; and plan out your route including dining, recreation, and site-seeing opportunities. Click here to find bike rental, sales, and repair.

  • Crow Wing County: Baxter and Brainerd are located in Crow Wing County which is the heart of Central Minnesota and an outdoor enthusiasts dream. Crow Wing County heavily invests in its parks and amenities providing residents and visitors diverse recreational opportunities that are accessible to people of all ages and abilities. Find more information and maps online.
  • Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Parks and Trails: Find information about state parks, trails, permits and more on the State’s website.
  • Paul Bunyan Cyclists: A cycling club with affordable membership dues open to anyone interested in cycling in the Baxter, Brainer and Brainerd Lakes Area. They host weekly club rides and all skill levels are welcome. Learn more HERE and find a wealth of information about area trails with their maps.
  • Gravel Grinders Club: A cycling club with affordable membership dues open to anyone interested in cycling on gravel roads and routes in the Baxter, Brainerd and Brainerd Lakes Area. They host weekly club rides and all skill levels are welcome. Learn more HERE.
  • Have Fun Biking: This is a great resource for planning a cycling trip. There is a printed booklet (Bike Hike Guide, see pages 62-63 for the Brainerd/Baxter map) which is available at the Visit Brainerd Information Center and a website with a lot of information.
  • Minnesota Trails: This is another great resource for planning a cycling trip. It is a quarterly seasonal printed publication and a robust website with a variety of resources, itineraries, and more. Check out these highlights from their writers:

The Brainerd area stands out as a premier biking destination in Minnesota, offering a harmonious blend of scenic beauty, diverse trails, and welcoming communities. Whether you’re pedaling through dense forests, alongside tranquil lakes, or exploring historic towns, the Brainerd area promises an unforgettable cycling experience.