The Journey to Redhead Mountain Bike Park: A Decade of Persistence and Vision
The past couple of years have blessed me with unfathomable opportunities to connect with outdoor enthusiasts from across the United States through Minnesota’s outdoor activities. Oh yeah, and I’ve met some of my favorite people during that time; I truly enjoy sharing everyone’s voice. Most mountain bikers find they are looking for something unique, and each has their own reasons for riding. John from Nebraska shared: “The chance to fuse the peace of the Northwoods with the pace of a mountain bike ripping over rock and dirt is what makes riding the Range so unique. And while the scenery can catch your eye, the trail commands your undivided attention. Sharing this experience invariably makes it more fun, as you are naturally challenged to keep moving—and motion equals life.” My role as a Ride the Range ambassador is about more than just promoting current trails and activities; it is also to remind everyone just how far Redhead MTB Park has advanced in a short time. None of our trails would exist for summer hiking, biking, or winter activities without the persistence and commitment of people with transformative and innovative ideas.
Below is a personal reflection from Jim Plummer, one of the innovators and catalysts for the trails we explore throughout the year.
A Vision Takes Root
“In 2009, while working in economic development for Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation (IRRR), I was approached by my friend and engineer, Pete Kero, with an idea that would later become a game-changer for Chisholm, Minnesota: a mountain bike park built on reclaimed mineland.
Pete had a vision of transforming inactive mine lands into something beautiful and productive. We both agreed it had real potential, sparking the beginning of a decade-long journey to bring Redhead Mountain Bike Park to life.
A Setback, Then New Hope
We first set our sights on a location overlooking Hibbing Taconite—a stockpile site we thought would be perfect. After two years of discussions with the City of Hibbing and other local stakeholders, we received permission to develop nine miles of trails on the 80-acre site. The IRRR awarded the project a $250,000 grant to get the ball rolling.
However, as soon as we were ready to break ground, an unexpected roadblock arose: the site’s minerals had been leased to a scrap mining operation. Our project could no longer move forward there. It was a major setback, but as is often the case, this disappointment turned into an opportunity. We didn’t give up; we pivoted and began exploring alternative sites. The more we looked, the more we realized that the Iron Range had a treasure trove of underutilized, inactive mine lands. The dramatic topography, red cliffs, lakes, and well-drained soils were exactly what we needed. Eventually, we discovered the perfect location: a vast pit behind the Minnesota Discovery Center in Chisholm.
Overcoming Legislative Hurdles
The new site spanned 750 acres and was conveniently owned by my employer, the IRRR. Most of the surrounding land was St. Louis County tax-forfeit property, creating a perfect canvas for a world-class park. While we initially had modest plans for 10 miles of trail, we quickly realized the logistical challenges ahead. One major hurdle was Minnesota’s ‘mine fence law,’ which prohibited recreational use of land behind mine fences. We worked with the IRRR, St. Louis County, and local officials to change the law, which required legislative approval. Unfortunately, our first attempts during the 2016 and 2017 legislative sessions failed. Despite these setbacks, the Range legislative delegation didn’t give up. In 2018, after three years of effort, we succeeded in getting the legislation passed. This was the milestone that turned Redhead into a reality.
Community and Advocacy Support
Throughout this process, it became clear that Redhead wasn’t just a small group mission; it was a community effort. Numerous organizations rallied behind the project, from the City of Chisholm and the Minnesota Discovery Center to Iron Range Off-Road Cyclists (IROC) and the Mineland Vision Partnership.
Their support was crucial in addressing concerns regarding liability and building on iron formations where future mining was possible. Thankfully, solutions were found, hope was restored, and Redhead was back on track. In 2018, we hired mountain biking expert Jeff Schoenbauer to conduct feasibility studies. The studies were positive, and in January 2019, I made a formal request to our Board for $5.4 million to fund the development of Redhead, Giants Ridge, and Tioga. The Board approved the funding, and the IRRR stepped up to act as the developer. Jeff became our consultant and owner’s representative. He was adamant about his philosophy: quality over quantity. That message resonated through every design meeting and construction phase.
The Final Hurdles
The final obstacle was land ownership. Superior Minerals, Inc. controlled a crucial 120-acre parcel on the west side of the property. Without approval to cross this land, iconic trails like Fractured Falls, The Glen Line, Secret Garden, and Weeper would have been impossible. Negotiating was challenging due to liability concerns, but after agreeing to increase our insurance coverage from $1 million to $2 million, we secured their approval. Construction finally began in the summer of 2019.
Bringing Redhead to Life
By June 2020, over 15 miles of purpose-built trails were open to the public. The official grand opening took place in 2021 with 25 miles of trail on the ground. The timing was unexpected; while we feared the COVID-19 pandemic might dampen attendance, the opposite happened. People flocked to Redhead to experience the outdoors. Visitors were drawn to the rugged red cliffs, the turquoise waters of the old mine pits, and the sense of adventure.
Ongoing Growth
The IRRR continued its support in December 2024, providing another $1 million grant to build a pump track and skills area. An unexpected surprise was the influx of hikers; although designed for bikes, the trails proved beautiful and challenging for those on foot. Today, both groups share the trails in harmony. Looking back, it’s hard to believe it took over 10 years from concept to grand opening. There were many moments when we could have given up, but through sheer determination and community support, we persisted. Redhead Mountain Bike Park is now a world-class destination. We built more than just a park; we built a legacy for the Iron Range—a place where people can experience the rugged beauty of Minnesota’s minescape and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime.”
A Decade of Dedication
Looking back, it’s hard to believe it took over 10 years from concept to grand opening. There were many moments when we could have given up, but through sheer determination and community support, we persisted. Redhead Mountain Bike Park is now a world-class destination. We built more than just a park; we built a legacy for the Iron Range—a place where people can experience the rugged beauty of Minnesota’s minescape and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime.”
Prepared by:
Guy Thompson
Redhead Ambassador