SHTA Founders' Night Video

Over 30 years ago, the concept for the Superior Hiking Trail was born out of a feasibility study put together by Leland Schaar of the U.S. Forest Service. The rugged, challenging landscape of the Sawtooth Mountains and the presence of Lake Superior offered an opportunity to experience the most spectacular vistas in the Midwest. This foresight, a dusting of destiny, and critical investment by a state-sponsored conservation fund were the ingredients a loyal, committed and talented group of Minnesotans needed to blaze and build what would become the state’s premier natural footpath along Lake Superior’s North Shore.

The Superior Hiking Trail Association recently honored the many folks who launched the SHT and who have made significant contributions in its 32-year history at an event called Founders' Night. Our video, produced by volunteer Erik Sudheimer, highlights a few tales from our Trail's origins.