Lester River Trail (Duluth Traverse)

Dogs Leashed

E-Bikes Unknown

This is a rolling, bermed, flowing, machine-built stretch of singletrack, generally following the western edge of Lester River.

This trail constitutes the easternmost portion of the "Duluth Traverse", the singletrack trail running from one end of Duluth to the other. The next section, heading southwest is the Hawk Ridge Trail .

This trail is ripping fast both ways: DESCENDING is fantastic and nearly effortless because you can keep your speed through the countless bermed hairpin turns. And if you're ASCENDING (starting from Lester Park), the trail rolls and flows so effortlessly, that you practically feel like you're pumping your way to the top.

As an easy trail, there are no notable riding 'features' and no technical b-lines. But, experienced riders will have tons of fun "narrowing the trail" by simply going faster and riding the roller coaster.

Also, there are several nice scenic overlooks on the east side of the trail, looking down on the Lester River. Especially nearest the bottom, there are a few places where the trail comes close to the edge of the river gorge, which could pose a risk to the very youngest/least experienced riders (however, my 5-yr old handled it just fine by staying slow and in control).

NOTE:
- This is a two-way trail, so watch for opposing traffic
- Also, this is a multi-use trail, so watch for pedestrians

You can make a loop ride by connecting to either Amity East or Amity West trails, or continue across town on the Duluth Traverse.
For less strong, beginner, riders you can climb the very scenic paved road along Amity Creek, called Seven Bridges road. This is far quicker than riding up the trail for a beginner.

Park in the main parking lot at Lester Park to start out with more climbing, or park at the top, where Skyline Parkway intersects Seven Bridges Rd, to start out with more descending.