Lester Park Trailhead – Congdon Park Waterfalls loop from University of Minnesota Duluth

If you're looking for a solid touring cycling route that offers a good workout without being overly strenuous, the Lester Park Trailhead – Congdon Park Waterfalls loop from University of Minnesota Duluth is a moderate 14.5-mile (23.4 km) ride with 628 feet (191 metres) of climbing, typically completed in about 1 hour and 28 minutes. It's a great option for cyclists who want to explore Duluth's parks and natural areas on two wheels.

What to expect on Lester Park Trailhead – Congdon Park Waterfalls loop from University of Minnesota Duluth

This touring cycling route takes you through the areas around Lester Park and towards the Congdon Park Waterfalls, offering a pleasant journey. You'll cover a good distance with some rolling terrain, but the 628 feet (191 metres) of elevation gain spread over 14.5 miles (23.4 km) means there are no exceptionally steep or prolonged climbs. It's a route well-suited for cyclists looking for a scenic and accessible ride, perhaps as a longer morning or afternoon outing.

Planning your visit

This loop starts from the Lester Park Trailhead, which is a convenient access point for the area. As no specific warnings or permit requirements are noted, you can generally plan your ride around your schedule. However, like any popular area, arriving earlier in the day might help with parking, especially on weekends. The route is designed for touring bicycles, suggesting paved or well-maintained gravel surfaces.

Trail details

• Distance: 14.5 miles (23.4 km)
• Elevation gain: 628 feet (191 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 28 minutes