Construction Updates 10/13/26
Construction Updates for 2026
Aurora to Hoyt Lakes – this project is still in engineering. Tree clearing is currently in progress. When we get State Aid approval, we will advertise for construction to start this year. The plan is to finish this trail segment still this fall, but it may end up pushing into 2027.
The Industrial Park section in Aurora should be finished this spring.
West Two River to Tower – There is a .5 mile of trail not finished. Everything else is done. Proceed with caution along Hwy 135.
Buhl to Kinney – We are pushing forward to reconstruct this section of trail this year. The project is just waiting on environmental sign-off. Tree clearing will begin within the next week or so as there is not much clearing work to do. The trail will be moved off Whiteside Road with this project. This job will be bid for construction later in the spring and reconstruction is anticipated to occur this year.
Giants Ridge – the site behind the Quarry golf course has finally been stabilized. This spring will commence the work to rebuild the trail through that corridor. Ideally, this section will be reopened prior to the main biking season kicking off spring 2027
Kiosk mapping will commence this year. The new maps for each kiosk are in the design phase now and will be installed at each kiosk as they are completed. The maps will highlight the community where the kiosk is located, as well as still show the full trail. Point of interest signs are included in this project. A new design is being created, and new signs will be printed.
Potential upcoming projects –
Reconstructions Needed:
Bovey to Taconite – 3.5 miles – grants are applied for
Eveleth to Gilbert –3.68 miles – grants are applied for
Ely trailhead to kiosk – 0.5 miles – future need
Keewatin to Kelly Lake – 3.03 miles – future need
Relocation projects:
CSAH 102 in Mountain Iron is closing in 2027, and the trail is being rerouted to Hwy 169. Need a pedestrian bridge to cross CN tracks and US 53 into Virginia. Funding has been applied for on this project.
Mile Markers:
Mile markers are still a known need. The project still hasn’t fully come together, but it is under consideration
Road Markings:
Stencils of the MT logo are in the works to repaint the markings on pavement through towns to clarify the bike route.
