2025 marks the seventh year of IMBA’s Foundations trail workshops. This fall in Duluth, on October 1st and 2nd, IMBA staff, trail industry experts, and local stakeholders will lead participants through the process: planning, design, building, activation, promotion and measuring success. Field visits will take attendees through a community that’s done the work, a chance to couple the outcomes and realities with the classroom theory and stories.

All photos from IMBA Foundations Bentonville: Liz Chrisman, IMBA

IMBA Foundations are meant to catalyze the next generation of great places to ride mountain bikes. Attendees learn what it takes to create a model trail community and return home with the knowledge to make it happen. Past workshops have taken place in Winona, MN; Cedar City, UT; and Bentonville, AR.

Why Duluth?

“Up North” has never looked this good. Imagine yourself riding in Minnesota’ North Shore region: a chill of fall in the air; thousands of acres of leaves turning brilliant oranges, yellow, reds and purples; breathtaking views of Lake Superior; the feel of the mountains and the charm of the Upper Midwest. October on the North Shore is unbeatable, and with hundreds of miles of trails within riding and driving distance, Duluth is truly a destination trails community. That’s why IMBA is hosting Foundations in Duluth.

Built on the glacial bedrock that forms the dynamic, rocky shoreline of Lake Superior, the Duluth Traverse mountain bike trail runs for about 40 miles along the entire city of Duluth, connecting 5 main trail centers to neighborhoods and bringing more trails close to home for Minnesotans and visitors alike. In total, Duluth boasts over 90 miles of natural surface and paved trails. From the smooth, flowy lines at Mission Creek; to the lift serviced, downhill runs and winter fat biking at Spirit Mountain Bike Park; to the technical, rocky descents in the Piedmont; to rooty, rocky terrain in Hartley, there is something for everyone.

While you’re visiting, Climb Enger Tower to see the giant ships on Lake Superior. Visit the lively downtown scene and experience live music, arts, and sporting events. Check out a brewery or distillery, and watch the sunrise over Park Point. Eat a meal at Duluth Grille and thank me later.

Check out more at IMBA.