Lookout Mountain - Laurentian Divide Fitness Trail
The Laurentian Divide Recreation Area serves as the trailhead for the Lookout Mountain Trail and Laurentian Divide Fitness Trail which includes a 15 mile hiking and skiing trail system and a ½-mile fitness trail with 7 exercise stations.
Additionally, the Lookout Mountain Bike Trails feature 5 miles of dedicated mountain bike single track and over 6 miles of multi-use rideable ski trail.
The recreation area features scenic overlooks, 4 picnic sites, an Adirondack shelter, interpretive signs and restrooms.
Photo Gallery of the Laurentian Divide Fitness Trail Area
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Trail Type
General Information
Trail Conditions
For current mountain bike trail status and conditions, visit our trail partner Iron Range Off-road Cyclists.
Safety
You have the responsibility to be adequately prepared for a trip in the wilderness with
- good footwear,
- ample water,
- emergency supplies, and
- sufficient time to make the trip.
You should be self sufficient: there is no cell phone coverage, and due to the nature of the trail, there is no easy way to get assistance in, nor any easy way to get people out in emergencies.
Travel
- A compass and accurate map are essential.
- Bring reliable maps. Maps can be purchased at some Forest Service offices, area businesses and outfitters, or directly from the map companies.
- If you get lost, don’t panic. Sit down, relax and think. Chances are that you will figure out your location in a few minutes.
- If you plan to use a Global Positioning System (GPS) for navigating, be sure you also bring a map and compass as a back up in case your GPS unit fails.
- Dress in layers and be prepared for every kind of weather situation.
None available.
When visiting, please remember
- Trails are for non-motorized use only.
- Only use facilities that are provided.
- Single file only; stay on the trail.
- Trails are two-way, so beware of oncoming bikes.
- Watch for hikers on the trails.
- Minimize erosion by not using the trails when they are wet.
Address: 318 Forestry Road Aurora, MN 55705
Phone: (218) 453-8650
Hours: October 1, 2025-April 30, 2026, Tuesday-Thursday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov
Getting There
Directions
From Virginia, MN take Highway 53/169 north for 4 miles. The trailhead is located at the Laurentian Divide Recreation Area on the northbound lane.
Additional Information
Operated By
USDA Forest Service
Recreation Opportunities
XC Skiing/Snowshoeing Info
The 15 mile (24 km) cross-country ski trail is open to classic skiing only. The trail is mostly user groomed and maintained. The area between markers 12 and 17 is meant for backcountry and is only user groomed.
Day Hikes Info
Portions of the trail are not intended for hiking because it can be very wet.
Picnicking - Single Info
There are 4 picnic areas located in the Laurentian Divide Recreation Area.
Biking - Mountain Info
The Lookout Mountain Bike Trails feature 5 miles of dedicated mountain bike single track and over 6 miles of multi-use rideable ski trail.
Recreation Groups
The Laurentian Fall Color Tour takes travelers down both larger state and county highways as well as smaller Forest Service roads.