The Centennial Trail is a 3.3 mile loop hike located right off the Gunflint Trail. This trail was built in 2009 to honor the Superior National Forest’s 100th anniversary. The Centennial Trail takes you on a path through history as you explore the remnants of the Western Railroad, Gunflint Iron Company, and failed Paulson Mine.
While this hike can be done in either direction, it is recommended to hike it counterclockwise. By doing so you will start on the Kekekabic Trail, a 40 mile hiking trail that connects the Gunflint Trail to Ely. After a little more than a mile, you will turn left to loop back around on the Centennial Trail proper. The Centennial Trail terminates on Round Lake Road. From here, you will walk along the road a short distance to the snowmobile trail crossing. Jump on the snowmobile trail for a few hundred feet then finish the last 1/4 mile along the shoulder of the Gunflint Trail.
When starting this hike from the Kekekabic trailhead, you will quickly come across several original mining test pits from the late 1800’s. Five test pits were opened in this area. They were used to evaluate the purity of iron deposits here. In the end, it was a complete failure, as only one car load of ore was ever removed. As you traverse to the south side of the loop, you will walk the rock cuts and rock trestles created for the railroad. No wooden trestles remain today, but you can still imagine what this railroad could have looked like! The views over the gorge are beautiful, and moose like to frequent the small lake below. Keep an eye out for photo opportunities!
The Centennial Trail is especially beautiful in the fall! From a difficulty perspective, this loop is pretty moderate. There is one steep section on the south side with a slight rock scramble. If you go counterclockwise, you will descend this section.
Route Map
Map directs to trailhead parking.