Biking the Paul Bunyan State Trail: A Fall Guide Near Crosslake

When the first crisp mornings arrive on the Whitefish Chain and the maples along the shoreline start to turn, there is one activity lake home owners near Crosslake reach for again and again: a bike ride on the Paul Bunyan State Trail. Minnesota's longest state trail and one of the longest continuously paved rail-trails in the country threads through the heart of the Brainerd Lakes Area, and it happens to sit just minutes from the Crosslake and Whitefish Chain community. Here is everything you need to know to get out and ride it this fall.

What Is the Paul Bunyan State Trail?

The Paul Bunyan State Trail runs roughly 115 to 120 miles from Crow Wing State Park near Brainerd and Baxter in the south all the way north to Lake Bemidji State Park. It follows a former railroad grade, which means it is fully paved, essentially flat, and wonderfully easy for riders of every ability. That gentle grade is what makes it such a favorite for families, casual riders, and anyone who wants to soak in the scenery without grinding up hills. In summer it is a top biking and in-line skating route, and in winter the same corridor becomes a groomed snowmobile and cross-country ski trail.

Because the trail passes through Baxter, Nisswa, Pequot Lakes, Jenkins, Pine River, Backus, Hackensack, and Walker on its way north, it links the region's lake towns together. You can park in one town, ride to the next, grab lunch, and ride back. There is no trail use fee beyond a state park vehicle permit if you choose to park in a state park lot.

Getting on the Trail From Crosslake

A common question I hear is whether the trail runs through Crosslake itself. It does not pass through town, but it is remarkably close. The two most convenient trailheads for Crosslake and Breezy Point residents are Pequot Lakes to the west and Merrifield to the south, each a short drive from the chain.

• Merrifield trailhead. From Breezy Point or Crosslake, take County Road 4 south to the marked trailhead parking on the right. It is the closest access for much of the chain.
• Pequot Lakes trailhead. Head west on County Road 11 to Pequot Lakes, then turn on Government Drive to the marked trail parking lot. This puts you in a great spot for a ride south toward Nisswa or north toward Jenkins.
• Nisswa and Pine River trailheads. Both have convenient parking and put you right on the trail with easy food stops nearby. The Nisswa lot sits near City Hall Street and the Pine River lot on Barclay Avenue.

The southern segments through Nisswa and Pequot Lakes are among the most scenic on the whole trail, with lakes, forest, and classic North Woods towns along the way. It is an ideal distance for a morning or afternoon ride.

Rides Close to the Whitefish Chain

You do not have to drive to a trailhead to enjoy a bike ride on the Whitefish Chain. There are excellent loops right in the Crosslake area for when you want to stay close to home.

• Crosslake City Trail. A paved 3.7-mile loop at the Crosslake City Trail and Campground, perfect for a short family ride without leaving town.
• Breezy Point / Crosslake / Mission loop. A roughly 41-mile ride along Pelican Lake and Cross Lake for riders who want a real distance day with lake views throughout.
• West Shore Drive path. A paved path runs along the west side of Cross Lake for pedestrians and cyclists, offering calm water views right near town.
• Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway connection. The byway forms a scenic loop between Pequot Lakes and Crosslake that links up with the state trail for longer point-to-point adventures.

Why Fall Is the Best Season to Ride

Summer on the trail is lovely, but fall is where it shines. Late September and early October bring peak color to the Brainerd Lakes Area, and the flat, open rail-trail is one of the best ways to see it. The canopy of maples and oaks arches over the path in orange, red, and gold, and the crisp air keeps the ride comfortable even at midday. Because the trail is built on an old railroad bed, the gentle grade means you can cover real distance while keeping your eyes on the colors instead of the pedals.

Fall also means lighter traffic than the peak summer weeks. Families are back to school, and the trail quiets down just as the scenery peaks. It is the perfect season for a long, unhurried ride followed by a hot lunch in Pequot Lakes, Nisswa, or Jenkins.

Practical Tips for a Fall Ride

• Start mid-morning so the trail warms up and the low fall sun stays at your back as you ride south.
• Dress in layers. A morning start in late September can be in the 40s, warming to the 60s by afternoon. A light windbreaker packs easily.
• Watch for fallen leaves on the pavement, especially after a rain. They can be slick on the downhills and corners.
• Bring water and a snack. Trail towns have food stops, but they are spaced out, so plan your ride around where you will stop.
• Pack a small pump and a patch kit. A flat tire on a long ride is a minor detour with the right gear, a long walk without it.

A Trail That Works All Year

One of the great things about living near the Whitefish Chain is that the Paul Bunyan Trail is not a one-season amenity. In fall it is a golden corridor through peak color. In winter the same stretch becomes a groomed snowmobile and cross-country ski route. In spring and summer it is back to bikes, skates, and strollers. Whether you ride it weekly or just once during peak foliage, it is one of the best recreation assets in the entire Brainerd Lakes Area, and it is practically in our backyard.

If you are thinking about buying a lake home on the Whitefish Chain, the recreation is a big part of the appeal. From your dock on the water to a paved rail-trail a few miles away, the area is built for an active, outdoors-focused life in every season.