From Abandoned Mine to World-Class MTB Gem

Written By Matthias

I wrote a piece on Redhead for the nxrth website - it’s about mountain biking on historic mining land - reclaimed for adventure. Ya’ll need to check it out here! Quick teaser: it contains a list of why Redhead is becoming a bucket-list MTB destination.

In other news - the ground is thawing and the wait for ride season is killer:

The wet and muddy spring transition between winter fat tire biking and summer mountain biking is agonizing for northern Minnesota biking enthusiasts who long for ripping on trails and weaving through the woods on two wheels. Someone experiencing this dilemma could find rideable trails out of the area and take a close gander at your summer riding bike and gear. Area bike shops have more time to look over bikes before trails open, so now is a great time to schedule a spa day for yours. Spring tune-ups provide you with peace of mind that your bike is safe and ready to ride.

I pull all my riding gear out to ensure optimal functioning of my helmets, goggles, shoes, shorts, jerseys, first aid kit, and hydration backpack. Now is also a great time to grab some extra tubes and gear if your go-to items need replacing. Personally, I pack my hydration backpack prior to the ride season with a first aid kit, extra tubes, and my favorite snacks. I find my rides more enjoyable when I know that everything is ready for another summer mountain bike season.

I am personally looking forward to riding my new Transition Smuggler mountain bike from 30 West Bike Shop in Chisholm, Minnesota. After researching  and logging many hours of riding the last two seasons, I decided to upgrade my ride. I’m going from an alloy medium frame to a large carbon frame, which will fit me better. The 30 West Bike Shop has everything from new bikes and bike rentals to pedals, jerseys, and all other possible biking accessories.

In life and mountain biking, preparation increases your chances for satisfactory outcomes and success. If you want further preparation by seeing the Redhead MTB trails, I might just have a handful of videos posted on YouTube @akaGuyThompson.

Can’t wait to see you on the trails! Reach out if you are looking to ride this summer. Redhead MTB trails will open May 5, 2025, so start preparing and planning to ride your favorite trails.

Matthias Norenberg (aka Guy Thompson)

Redhead Ambassador

Matthias

Growing up, I looked at the ore mining dumps surrounding Hibbing and vividly recall being 13 years old and thinking how cool it would be to mountain bike on trails amongst all the small mountains of leftover rock. I reunited with my number one past time of mountain biking in 2023 and enjoy the peace and serenity of the sport in addition to sharing my passion with others. I bike to reconnect and recenter.

I have ridden the Barr trail at Pikes Peak in Colorado, numerous other Minnesota MTB trails, and UP Michigan trails. I plan to continue finding new biking adventures around the country and promoting others to get outdoors.

Fun fact: My son challenged me to create a YouTube channel showcasing my biking and other fun gallivants. I aspires to surpass my son’s subscriber and view numbers. My YouTube channel has been a fun and unique bonding opportunity with my son. You can follow me on YouTube at @akaGuyThompson

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Back in the Saddle - May 5