Fluctuating weather challenges hikers and runners
By Samantha Church
The never-ending hiking trails in Duluth have captivated many residents of the city. The long footpath that surrounds the lake from Duluth to Canada attracts people from around the world.
The closest trail to campus is Bagley Nature Area. This trail offers a variety of entertainment besides walking, including cross-country skiing. The ski trails are groomed by Recreational Sports Outdoor Program for classic style skiing.
This trail is close to one of the most popular trails in Duluth, the Superior Hiking Trail. The trail travels along the lake’s ridgeline up to the North Shore.
The closest entrance into the Superior Hiking trail to UMD is the trail at Hartley Nature Center. The trails are easily accessible for hikers from UMD, just a walk or drive up Woodland Avenue. Camping is not allowed at the park, but people often pack a lunch and hike the park for a day trip.
“The melting snow has re-frozen into a layer of ice, making travel more difficult and dangerous,” according to the Superior Hiking Trail Association’s website.
Members of the association recommend that hikers go to Gooseberry Falls in Two Harbors this time of year. The paved trail conditions at this park are often easier to keep clean and free of ice. The hike is aso short.
There are many ways to plan a hike during the day. Most of the Superior Hiking Trail is laid out into sections of 3-11 miles. A common plan for a hike is the “out and back.” With this method, hikers start at any trailhead and hike half of the amount of miles they wish to hike then turn around and finish.
Most trails in the Superior Hiking Trail are rugged footpaths and are not paved. For hikers, this means wearing sturdy hiking boots or shoes and carrying a backpack that contains essentials, including a beverage, snacks, rain gear, first aid and an extra layer of clothing.
Once hikers are on the trails, they can find signs that give basic mileage information to track distance. Hikers are recommended to stay on the trails since many trails pass through privately owned land.
It is always recommended to take a map in case of an emergency, and to be aware that current conditions are treacherous. If you plan to hike alone, make sure someone knows where you are.
Graphic by Will Madison
