Northern Tier in Minnesota: which loop?

[KF8MO]

We're looking at a Northern Tier trip and wondering about the route east of Fargo. There seem to be 2 1/2 choices: either north (with an option all the way up to Bemidji) and come back down through Brainerd, or south through Fergus Falls etc. What are the pluses and minuses of each?

[CMajernik]

Here is a blog post that we did after changing the routing to use more of the rail trails in Minnesota. This might help you.
https://www.adventurecycling.org/resources/blog/northern-tier-route-changes-in-minnesota/

[ggwbikemt]

The Trails Alternative (southern) route is 98 miles shorter than the main route and the scenry is mostly farmland with occasional woodland. The main route leaves Fargo-Moorhead as farmland but transitions to forest about 10 miles west of US 71 and is mostly forest with occasional farmland until you get south of Brainerd. The northernmost route takes you through the Mississippi River headwaters. Either way, you will see several of Minnesota's 13000+ lakes. If you have the time to ride 98 extra miles (maybe closer to 90 if you chose the Heartland Alternative over going through the Mississippi headwaters), the scenery is worth it.   

[indyfabz]

"If you're looking for a tour of 500 miles or less, the two sections when purchased together create a great loop route."

Thanks. The wheels in my head are spinning rapidly regarding next summer.