If you are new to trail running, or simply looking to expand the options in your current runners tool belt, the Duluth Trails Highlight articles will help on your journey to explore the many (amazing) trails Duluth has to offer.

Today’s post will feature my other go-to trail system for a lunch run, as it’s only one mile from the Lake Ave & Superior Street intersection. The Enger & Lincoln Park trail systems are two of my favorite in town! I’m combining them for today’s post as I like to link them together for a fun and challenging run.

I get on the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) right near the M&H gas station near the stop sign below – you can see the trail heading up into the woods…

From here it’s basically one steady climb up to Twin Ponds and Enger Park – about one mile from Michigan Street to the peace bell (feel free to give it a ring once you arrive)! There are several street crossings to be aware of, with one being a bit tricky to find the trail if it is your first time in the area. I took a picture to help you out!

You’ll split those rocks, head up the pictured driveway, cross the street, and about 20 yards or so after you’ll see a little foot bridge on your left – you’re back on the trail! After some more climbing you’ll eventually reach the previously mentioned peace bell!

From there you get a little bit of a break from the uphill and enter one of my favorite types of running surfaces…soft, cushy pine needles!! The smell during summer reminds me of being out West in the mountains of Glacier/Rocky Mountain/Banff National Parks. I could run on this stuff all day!

After another mile or so, you will eventually pop out near Skyline Parkway heading down towards 24th Ave West. Follow the path and SHT blue blazes, crossing over Hwy 53.

Immediately after crossing Hwy 53, there will be a little parking lot to your left, along with a worn footpath down the hill.

Take that footpath, cross the parking lot, and head towards the upper entrance of Lincoln Park (on the other side of 24th Ave West).

I have really enjoyed Lincoln Park over the past several years. Running alongside Miller Creek the entire time is amazing! If you want to continue on with the SHT, take a right over the bridge just after entering the park. Otherwise you can continue on down the East side of the hill and remain in Lincoln Park – this is what I typically do unless I’m out for a longer AM run before work.

After some fun, varying terrain running following the creek, eventually you come out onto a road within the park (Elephant Rock will be on your right across the creek). Continue down this road until you reach the main bridge – this is a great spot to take in the view while listening to some rushing water beneath you!

Now it’s time to turn around for the return trip. As I mentioned earlier, there is a good amount of elevation change on the route, so be prepared. With that said, it is well worth it and a great training run for any trail races you may have on the calendar!

Every now and then it’s fun to veer just a bit off course and take in one of my favorite views in all of Duluth from the gazebo back in Enger Park…

Another great part of the detour was coming across this gem – if you don’t already know, I’m moderately obsessed with camping/traveling/etc. and therefore LOVE the idea of traveling around in a camper van someday – the people having lunch inside were probably wondering who the weirdo runner was snapping a pick of their adventure wagon!

After a somewhat technical descent back down to Michigan Street, the only thing left is a flat stroll back into downtown where the run began.

I’m very thankful that Duluth has so many options to get off the pavement if that’s what you’re looking for – especially within striking distance of downtown! So there are no excuses! Get outside and start enjoying all of the fantastic parks and trails Duluth has to offer! See you out there 🙂