Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, State recreation area in Crow Wing County, Minnesota.
Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area is a state recreation area in Crow Wing County, Minnesota, built on the grounds of former iron ore mining. It offers a large network of trails designed primarily for mountain biking, alongside several mine pit lakes scattered across the land.
The land was part of the Cuyuna Iron Range, a major iron ore mining district that operated through much of the 20th century. After mining stopped, the site was converted into a state recreation area in 1993.
Mountain bikers of all levels ride trails sorted by difficulty, and this has built a strong community around the sport over the years. The area draws groups and families who come together to cycle through open natural surroundings.
A Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is required to enter and can be bought online or at the entrance. Some trails close during deer hunting season in early to mid-November, so it is worth checking current conditions before you go.
The Portsmouth Mine Pit Lake formed in an abandoned mining pit and is considered the deepest lake in Minnesota. It sits right in the middle of what was once an active industrial site, which makes its clear water all the more unexpected.
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