Filled with tempting trails and intriguing trailside lore, this comprehensive guide introduces hikers of all abilities to the unique natural beauty of northeastern Minnesota. Choose a hike to match your mood, time frame, and skill level.

Over 225 miles of spectacular scenery to choose from: Lake Superior vistas, woodland trails, hidden waterfalls, rocky outcroppings, wildly dashing rivers.

Trails in six counties: Pine, Carlton, Aitkin, St. Louis, Lake, and Cook.

Each hike is a loop (or circuit): every step takes you to new territory; no cars to jockey between start and finish points.

Hikes for all ages and abilities: families, weekend walkers, hard-core hikers.

From quick strolls (30 minutes) to all-day outings; mostly in the 1-3 hour range.

Whether it's a wilderness trek or a city trail, each walking adventure in 50 CircuitHikes is outlined with superb detail:

Ratings for length and difficulty: 10 easy hikes, 18 moderate, 12 difficult, 10 strenuous.

Detailed maps including complete directions to the trailhead (with GPS coordinates) and parking facilities.

Stride-by-stride milepost information accurately describing landmarks so you can easily keep your bearings.

For pre-hike preparation or on-the-trail exploration: a wealth of natural history information on geology, plants, and animals you're likely to see; guidelines for safe hiking, plus points of special interest.