It’s not often that a state trail is beloved by a national publication.
But the Geechee-Gami State Trail deserves praise, according to USA Today’s 10Best Series Readers’ Choice Poll, which recently began voting for America’s best recreational trails.
The Gitchi-Gami Trail is a finalist for the award, with USA Today editors praising the (currently) 36-mile trail for its scenic beauty, access to historic sites and rest stops at five state parks, including Gooseberry Falls State Park and Split Rock Lighthouse State Park.
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Gooseberry Falls Photography: Melissa Turtinen (Photo by Melissa Tutinen)
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says when the remaining portion of the trail is completed, it will connect the two ports to Grand Marais via 86 miles of paved trails.
“It’s already incredibly impressive,” reads the Ten Best ads, “with stunning views of Lake Superior, as well as the Temperance River Gorge, Beaver Bay Bridge, the North Shore Mining Railroad, Grand Marais, and more.”
Voting for the best recreational route will open at noon on Monday, April 6, with final rankings announced on Wednesday, April 15.
This article was originally published by Bring Me The News on March 11, 2026, and first appeared in the Minnesota Lifestyle section. Click here to add Bring Me The News as your preferred source.