Wellness & Nature

Pedal away: Exploring the 9 Best Biking Trails in Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a city that offers a unique blend of urban and natural environments, making it a prime location for biking enthusiasts.

With over 120 miles of biking trails, Minneapolis boasts some of the best biking trails in the country. Whether you are a seasoned biker or a casual rider, Minneapolis has something for everyone.

The biking trails in Minneapolis are well-maintained, safe, and offer stunning views of the city's lakes, parks, and rivers.

These trails offer a great way to explore the city and its surroundings while staying active and healthy. The trails are easy to navigate, with clear signage and maps available at most trailheads.

One of the best things about biking in Minneapolis is the accessibility of the trails. The trails are conveniently located throughout the city, making it easy to hop on your bike and start exploring.

You can choose to bike along the Mississippi River, through the lush greenery of the city's parks, or around the many lakes that dot the city's landscape.

In this blog post, we will explore some of the best biking trails in Minneapolis. We will take a closer look at the trails' unique features and what makes them stand out.

Whether you are looking for a leisurely ride or a challenging workout, we have got you covered. So grab your bike, put on your helmet, and let's hit the trails!

1. Minnehaha Creek

Minnehaha Creek
Minneapolis, MN 55417 (Google Maps)

Minnehaha Creek is a beautiful biking trail that offers a scenic and peaceful ride. The trail runs alongside the creek and leads to a beach where the creek meets the river.

There are some unique features on the trail, including tree roots that form stairs and a raised platform to avoid flooding.

The trail is worth a stop if you are in the area and offers a great opportunity to enjoy nature.

It is a must-visit for anyone who loves biking and wants to experience the beauty of the outdoors.

2. Winchell Trail

Winchell Trail
4357-4367 W River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55406 (Google Maps)

Looking for a scenic and challenging biking trail that's perfect for walkers, joggers, and bikers alike, with access to the river for a quick dip with your dog or family members?

Then check out Winchell Trail!

This hidden gem is perfect for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peaceful surroundings while getting a great workout.

With a variety of paths to explore, Winchell Trail is the perfect place to spend a day in the great outdoors.

3. Minnehaha Falls Lower Glen Trail

Minnehaha Falls Lower Glen Trail
Minnehaha Regional Park, 4801 S Minnehaha Dr, Minneapolis, MN 55417 (Google Maps)

Looking for a peaceful bike ride through nature in the middle of the city hustle-bustle, Minnehaha Falls Lower Glen Trail is the answer.

This trail offers a serene biking experience where one can immerse themselves in the flowing river, rustling leaves, and lively birds.

With multiple trails of varying difficulty levels, there's something for everyone. A great spot to explore the waterfall and enjoy a picnic with family and friends.

Minnehaha Falls Lower Glen Trail is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and bikers alike.

4. Brownie Lake Mt. Bike Trails

Brownie Lake Mt. Bike Trails
3201 S Wayzata Blvd, Minneapolis, MN 55416 (Google Maps)

Brownie Lake Mt. Bike Trails is a challenging ride for experienced bikers.

The narrow trails and loose rock climbs make it a tech challenge.

The steep uphills and downhills are covered with rocks and a big ledge to roll or jump off of.

Beginners should avoid this trail. The wood bridges and jumps are in bad spots, but overall it's a great place to have fun.

5. Mississippi Walking Trail

Mississippi Walking Trail
Minneapolis, MN 55415 (Google Maps)

The Mississippi Walking Trail offers a great escape to nature with stunning river and nature views.

The well-maintained paved trail is perfect for biking, while the dirt and gravel paths below add a bit of adventure. All bridges and staircases are in good condition.

Although there was a bit of trash in the river inlet, the walkway overall was clean. The trail was moderately busy on the 4th of July with a person passing every 3 minutes or so.

If you're looking for a peaceful biking trail surrounded by nature, the Mississippi Walking Trail is worth checking out.

6. Bredesen Park

Bredesen Park
5901 Olinger Blvd, Minneapolis, MN 55436 (Google Maps)

Bredesen Park offers a beautiful biking trail that connects to other paths. The trail is well-maintained and has markers every half mile.

The park also has flat, paved and unpaved walking paths for leisurely strolls. The nature trail provides a peaceful escape with its wooded paths and occasional trash cans.

The park has ample parking and good bathroom facilities. It's a great spot for nature enthusiasts who want to explore marshlands, creeks, and ponds.

Bredesen Park is a city escape that offers a chance to connect with nature.

7. Bass Lake Park

Bass Lake Park
3401 Huntington Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55416 (Google Maps)

Bass Lake Park is a hidden gem in the heart of the city. The 1.5 mile paved loop around the swamp is perfect for a brisk walk or bike ride.

The area is filled with wildlife, including a group of deer that are not shy. Visitors can also spot birds, small animals, and sometimes even coyotes.

The park offers plenty of benches to rest and take in the natural beauty. It's a great spot to disconnect from the busy city life and breathe in some fresh air.

The park is also walking distance from restaurants and coffee shops, making it a perfect quick getaway.

8. Walter Sochacki Park

Walter Sochacki Park
3500 June Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55422 (Google Maps)

Walter Sochacki Park boasts well-paved trails that are perfect for biking. The park offers a beginner mountain bike course and plenty of fun trails to explore for those seeking a less-travelled path.

Visitors can enjoy a walk with nature or let their dogs run free in the small fenced dog area.

The park is part of the Three Rivers Park system and serves as a gateway to the Theodore Wirth trail system. With several miles of dirt trails weaving around the railroad tracks and creek bottoms, this park is a great off-the-beaten-path spot.

The park also offers picnic spots and a gazebo further down the trail for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery.

9. Shingle Creek Park

Shingle Creek Park
5016 N Morgan Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55430 (Google Maps)

Shingle Creek Park offers a great biking trail for enthusiasts. The park has well-maintained paths that are perfect for biking and walking.

The trail runs alongside a creek and through open grass and wooded areas. Visitors can enjoy watching various wildlife such as ducks, geese, turtles, and deer.

The park also has picnic tables and a sledding hill for families to enjoy. The bike path is plowed during the winter months, making it accessible year-round.

However, visitors should be aware of the occasional hobo living in the woods and carry proper safety measures. Shingle Creek Park is a great place to explore and enjoy the beauty of nature.