Frank’s Gravel Routes: Gravel Riding on Minnesota’s Iron Range

Looking for a gravel ride in northern Minnesota? Ride the Range Ambassador Frank Roark has done a lot of the scouting for you.

Frank has mapped a growing collection of his favorite gravel rides across Minnesota’s Iron Range, pairing each route with the details that can make planning a little easier: where to start, what to expect along the way, places to stop and downloadable Ride with GPS routes.

Use this guide to find your next ride. We’ll continue adding Frank’s latest gravel routes as new recommendations are published.

Explore Frank’s Gravel Routes

Part 1: Echo Trail + Giants Ridge

Echo Trail Gravel starts near Ely and heads into the rolling gravel roads, lakes and rock outcroppings of the Echo Trail area. Expect a longer ride with plenty of climbing and opportunities to make the route your own.

Giants Ridge Gravel offers a shorter option from the Biwabik area, combining rolling gravel roads, climbs and fast descents with an easy start and finish at Giants Ridge.

Explore Frank’s Gravel Routes: Part 1 →

Part 2: McCarthy Beach + Pfeiffer Lake

McCarthy Beach Gravel uses the state park as a starting point for a ride through northern Minnesota forest roads, rolling terrain and stands of red pine, with the added benefit of finishing near the beach.

Pfeiffer Lake Gravel is an out-and-back north of Virginia with plenty of climbing on the return. It is one of Frank’s go-to options when gravel roads begin drying out in the spring.

Explore Frank’s Gravel Routes: Part 2 →

Part 3: Angora

Angora Gravel takes riders north of Virginia and through the Cook area on a roughly 40-mile route that mixes farm country, forest, rivers, rolling terrain and longer climbs and descents.

Cook also gives riders an opportunity to build a stop into the ride or spend a little more time exploring after.

Explore Frank’s Gravel Routes: Part 3 →

Build a Gravel Trip on the Iron Range

Frank’s routes are only one way to explore the Range by bike. Gravel roads stretch between communities, forests, lakes and the region’s other riding opportunities, making it easy to pair a gravel ride with mountain biking, the paved Mesabi Trail or another day of exploring northern Minnesota.

Bring one bike or bring a few. Use Frank’s routes as a starting point and build the trip that works for you.

Looking for more ways to ride? Explore all six Ride the Range bike areas and start planning your trip.

Road surfaces, access and services can change. Review current route information and local conditions before heading out.