Courtesy of Explore Minnesota
For four decades, the Superior Hiking Trail has offered Minnesotans and visitors alike a deeper way to experience the North Shore—one footstep, overlook, and winding forest path at a time. This year, the beloved trail system celebrates its 40th anniversary with a season-long celebration honoring the people, stories, and community that helped shape one of Minnesota’s most iconic outdoor destinations.
The anniversary campaign, titled “Blazing Trail: 40 Years of Connecting Community and Nature,” includes special events, guided hikes, commemorative merchandise, and opportunities for hikers of all experience levels to get out on the trail throughout 2026.
The centerpiece celebration takes place Saturday, June 6, coinciding with National Trails Day. Dubbed the “Ultimate Birthday Celebration,” the event invites participants to hike, run, or simply saunter along designated sections of the trail before gathering at regional celebrations along the North Shore corridor. Organizers describe it as “One Day. One Trail. One Community.”
Beyond the June festivities, the Superior Hiking Trail Association is also encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to participate in the “Hike 40 Challenge,” which asks participants to complete 40 miles on historically significant sections of the trail during 2026. Those who finish receive a commemorative certificate and patch featuring Birchy the Beaver. More ambitious adventurers can take on the End-2-Ender challenge by completing the entire trail over the course of the year.
Additional guided hikes led by Master Naturalists are scheduled throughout the season, offering opportunities to learn more about the ecosystems, wildlife, and history surrounding the nearly 300-mile trail.
Stretching along the ridgeline overlooking Lake Superior, the Superior Hiking Trail has become more than just a recreational resource since its founding in 1986. For many Minnesotans, it represents tradition, solitude, stewardship, and a lasting connection to the North Shore landscape.
More information about anniversary events, registration, and trail challenges can be found through the Superior Hiking Trail Association.
