How Many Miles Is the Superior Hiking Trail?

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The Superior Hiking Trail: A 2,630-Mile Adventure

The Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) is a long-distance hiking trail that traverses the Sawtooth Mountains of northern Minnesota. The trail is known for its rugged beauty, challenging terrain, and abundant wildlife. It is also one of the longest hiking trails in the United States.

In this article, we will explore the history of the SHT, the different sections of the trail, and the challenges and rewards of hiking it. We will also provide tips for planning your own SHT hike.

So if you are looking for a challenging and rewarding hiking experience, the Superior Hiking Trail is the perfect trail for you.

Start End Distance
Lake Superior Lake Michigan 2,633 miles

History of the Superior Hiking Trail

The Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) is a long-distance hiking trail in northeastern Minnesota, United States. It is the longest continuous hiking trail in the state, and one of the most popular hiking trails in the United States. The SHT runs for 2,630 miles (4,230 km) from the Canadian border near Grand Portage to the town of Ashland on Lake Superior. It passes through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, the largest wilderness area in the contiguous United States.

The SHT was conceived in the 1910s by a group of hikers and conservationists. The trail was officially completed in 1934. It was designated a National Recreation Trail in 1980.

The SHT is a challenging trail that crosses a variety of terrain, including forests, bogs, lakes, and rivers. The trail is open to hikers of all skill levels, but some sections can be difficult. The SHT is also a popular destination for backpackers, who can camp along the trail in designated campsites.

The SHT is a beautiful and challenging trail that offers hikers a unique opportunity to experience the wilderness of northeastern Minnesota. The trail is also a valuable resource for conservation, providing habitat for a variety of wildlife.

The SHT is now one of the most popular hiking trails in the United States

The Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) is a long-distance hiking trail in northeastern Minnesota, United States. It is the longest continuous hiking trail in the state, and one of the most popular hiking trails in the United States. The SHT runs for 2,630 miles (4,230 km) from the Canadian border near Grand Portage to the town of Ashland on Lake Superior. It passes through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, the largest wilderness area in the contiguous United States.

The SHT is a challenging trail that crosses a variety of terrain, including forests, bogs, lakes, and rivers. The trail is open to hikers of all skill levels, but some sections can be difficult. The SHT is also a popular destination for backpackers, who can camp along the trail in designated campsites.

The SHT is a beautiful and challenging trail that offers hikers a unique opportunity to experience the wilderness of northeastern Minnesota. The trail is also a valuable resource for conservation, providing habitat for a variety of wildlife.

In recent years, the SHT has become one of the most popular hiking trails in the United States. In 2019, the SHT Association reported that over 1 million people hiked at least part of the trail. This makes the SHT the most-hiked long-distance hiking trail in the state of Minnesota, and one of the most-hiked long-distance hiking trails in the United States.

There are a number of factors that have contributed to the growing popularity of the SHT. These include:

  • The trail’s location in the beautiful and rugged wilderness of northeastern Minnesota.
  • The trail’s challenging terrain, which appeals to experienced hikers.
  • The trail’s extensive network of campsites, which makes it easy for backpackers to spend multiple days on the trail.
  • The trail’s close proximity to major cities such as Minneapolis and Duluth, which makes it a convenient destination for day hikers and weekend backpackers.

The SHT is a challenging and rewarding trail that offers hikers a unique opportunity to experience the wilderness of northeastern Minnesota. The trail is also a valuable resource for conservation, providing habitat for a variety of wildlife. If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding hiking experience, the SHT is a great option.

How Many Miles Is The Superior Hiking Trail?

The Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) is a long-distance hiking trail in Minnesota and Wisconsin. It is the longest hiking trail in the state of Minnesota and the second-longest in the United States. The SHT is a popular destination for hikers of all levels of experience.

Physical Characteristics of the Superior Hiking Trail

The SHT is 2,630 miles long. It crosses through a variety of landscapes, including forests, lakes, and mountains. The trail is typically hiked from north to south.

The SHT starts at the Canadian border near the town of Grand Marais, Minnesota. It follows the shore of Lake Superior for about 100 miles before turning inland. The trail then crosses the Sawtooth Mountains and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It ends at the town of Ashland, Wisconsin.

The SHT is a challenging trail. It has a total elevation gain of over 60,000 feet. The trail is also remote, with few towns or services along the way. Hikers should be prepared for long days of hiking, steep climbs, and unpredictable weather.

Challenges of Hiking the Superior Hiking Trail

The SHT can be challenging to hike due to its length, elevation changes, and remoteness. Hikers should be prepared for the following challenges:

  • Long days of hiking: The SHT is a long trail, and hikers should be prepared to spend long days on the trail. The average day of hiking on the SHT is about 10 miles. However, some days may be shorter or longer, depending on the terrain and weather conditions.
  • Steep climbs: The SHT crosses several mountain ranges, and hikers should be prepared for steep climbs. The highest point on the trail is Mount Arvon, which is 2,301 feet high.
  • Unpredictable weather: The weather on the SHT can change quickly, and hikers should be prepared for all types of weather conditions. The trail can be hot and humid in the summer, and cold and snowy in the winter.

The SHT is not recommended for inexperienced hikers. Hikers should have a good level of fitness and experience hiking in remote areas. They should also be prepared for the challenges of hiking the trail.

The Superior Hiking Trail is a challenging but rewarding trail. It is a great destination for hikers of all levels of experience. Hikers should be prepared for long days of hiking, steep climbs, and unpredictable weather. However, the rewards of hiking the SHT are great, including stunning views of Lake Superior, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, and the Sawtooth Mountains.

How many miles is the Superior Hiking Trail?

The Superior Hiking Trail is a 2,638-mile (4,246 km) long hiking trail that runs through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and the Superior National Forest in northern Minnesota. It is the longest continuous hiking trail in the state of Minnesota and one of the longest in the United States.

What are the different sections of the Superior Hiking Trail?

The Superior Hiking Trail is divided into 13 sections, each of which is approximately 20 miles (32 km) long. The sections are:

  • Section 1: Lake Superior to Temperance River
  • Section 2: Temperance River to Poplar Lake
  • Section 3: Poplar Lake to Little Saganaga Lake
  • Section 4: Little Saganaga Lake to Eagle Mountain
  • Section 5: Eagle Mountain to Hay Lake
  • Section 6: Hay Lake to Sonju Lake
  • Section 7: Sonju Lake to Knife Lake
  • Section 8: Knife Lake to Grand Portage
  • Section 9: Grand Portage to Cascade River
  • Section 10: Cascade River to Pigeon River
  • Section 11: Pigeon River to Caribou River
  • Section 12: Caribou River to Lake Superior
  • Section 13: Lake Superior to the Canadian border

How long does it take to hike the Superior Hiking Trail?

The average time to hike the Superior Hiking Trail is 4-6 weeks, depending on your fitness level and the time of year you hike. The trail is typically hiked from north to south, starting at Lake Superior and ending at the Canadian border.

What is the best time of year to hike the Superior Hiking Trail?

The best time to hike the Superior Hiking Trail is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is typically warm and sunny, with mild nights. However, the trail can be very busy during this time, so it is important to plan your hike accordingly.

What are the challenges of hiking the Superior Hiking Trail?

The Superior Hiking Trail is a challenging trail, but it is also a rewarding one. Some of the challenges of hiking the trail include:

  • Length: The trail is long, and it can be difficult to stay motivated over the long haul.
  • Terrain: The trail covers a variety of terrain, including forests, mountains, lakes, and rivers. It is important to be prepared for all types of terrain.
  • Weather: The weather can change quickly on the trail, so it is important to be prepared for all types of weather conditions.
  • Wildlife: The trail is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, and wolves. It is important to be aware of wildlife and to take precautions to avoid encounters.

What are the benefits of hiking the Superior Hiking Trail?

Hiking the Superior Hiking Trail is a challenging but rewarding experience. Some of the benefits of hiking the trail include:

  • Physical fitness: The trail is a great way to get in shape and improve your physical fitness.
  • Mental health: Hiking the trail can be a great way to clear your head and relax.
  • Solitude: The trail is located in a remote wilderness area, so you can enjoy solitude and peace and quiet.
  • Wildlife viewing: The trail is home to a variety of wildlife, so you can enjoy close-up wildlife viewing.
  • Cultural experience: The trail passes through a variety of cultural areas, so you can learn about the history and culture of the region.

What resources are available for hikers on the Superior Hiking Trail?

There are a number of resources available for hikers on the Superior Hiking Trail, including:

  • The Superior Hiking Trail Association: The Superior Hiking Trail Association is a non-profit organization that maintains the trail and provides information and resources for hikers.
  • The Superior Hiking Trail Map: The Superior Hiking Trail Map is a detailed map of the trail that can be purchased from the Superior Hiking Trail Association.
  • The Superior Hiking Trail Guidebook: The Superior Hiking Trail Guidebook is a comprehensive guidebook to the trail that provides information on each section of the trail.
  • The Superior Hiking Trail Website: The Superior Hiking Trail Website provides information on the trail, including current conditions, upcoming events, and resources for hikers.

How can I prepare for hiking the Superior Hiking Trail?

The Superior Hiking Trail is a 2,630-mile long hiking trail that runs through Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. It is the longest continuous hiking trail in the United States. The trail passes through some of the most beautiful and rugged terrain in the country, including forests, lakes, and mountains. The Superior Hiking Trail is a challenging but rewarding experience for hikers of all levels. It is a great way to see the natural beauty of the upper Midwest and to challenge yourself physically and mentally.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.