Hitting the Superior trail? Here's what you need to know

Last update: December 4, 2007 - 2:10 PM

SUPERIOR HIKING TRAIL

A 244-mile-long work in progress, the trail has been built mile-by-mile over the past 21 years, mostly by volunteers coordinated by the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA). This summer, the association celebrated completion of the Duluth segment of the trail, running from Jay Cooke State Park into Duluth itself. The last major segment to be completed is between Two Harbors and Duluth. Association director Gayle Coyer predicts it will be finished in 2010. The association publishes a guide to the trail ($15.95), produces the best maps and its website is a handy compendium of practical information. www.shta.org, 1-218-834-2700. E-mail: hike@shta.org.

LODGE LOGISTICS

The lodge-to-lodge program is coordinated by Ted and Barbara Young, who run Boundary Country Trekking. A three-night, midweek package, including lodging, breakfasts and trail lunches, shuttle drop-offs, maps and a membership in the SHTA is a very reasonable $295 per person. It's $15 more per person per night on weekends. Fourteen lodges and inns are included in the program, spanning most of the length of the trail. www.boundarycountry.com or call 1-800-322-8327.

SUPERIOR SHUTTLE

Independent hikers and backpackers can avail themselves of the Superior Shuttle when coordinating their journeys. The shuttle service has varying pickup times and services and operates to mid-October. www.superiorhikingshuttle.com or call 1-218-834-5511.

TRAIL TIPS

There are 81 backcountry campsites along the trail. There are no fees, reservations or permits required to hike or backpack on the trail (though you will need a state park permit if you chose to park or camp in one of the many that abut the North Shore along the trail.) Because of the ongoing drought, campfires are not permitted. Hikers should also note that because of extremely low water levels, some streams have run dry. That means making sure you pump plenty of water when you find it.

ON THE BOOKSHELF

"A Walking Guide to the Superior Hiking Trail" is a painstakingly detailed tome (330 pages) that illuminates the geology and biology of the landscape, mile by mile. Authors Ron Morton (A University of Minnesota-Duluth geologist) and Judy Gibbs (a local naturalist) provide expertise without getting pedantic. For ardent amateur naturalists, it's a gem. (Rockflower Press, $17.95.)

CHRIS WELSCH

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