Best Hiking Trails in Saint Paul, MN
Best Hiking Trails In Saint Paul MN
Nestled along the picturesque Mississippi River, Saint Paul, MN offers an impressive network of scenic hiking trails that appeal to nature lovers, fitness enthusiasts, and families alike. From tranquil riverside paths to wooded bluff overlooks, the city’s parks provide a refreshing escape from urban life while remaining conveniently accessible. In this overview of the best hiking trails in Saint Paul, you’ll discover routes that highlight the region’s natural beauty, wildlife, and historic landscapes. Whether you’re planning a quick afternoon walk or a more challenging weekend trek, Saint Paul’s well-maintained trails deliver a rewarding outdoor experience in every season. As you explore these top-rated paths, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s commitment to green spaces and recreation, setting the stage for a memorable hiking adventure throughout this vibrant Minnesota capital.
Introduction
Saint Paul, MN, offers an impressive network of urban and riverside trails that appeal to hikers of all skill levels. From scenic river bluffs to wooded ravines, the best hiking trails in Saint Paul combine natural beauty with convenient city access. This guide highlights top spots for hiking in Saint Paul, along with key details to help you plan your next outdoor adventure.
Mississippi National River And Recreation Area
The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Saint Paul. Stretching along the iconic Mississippi River, this area features multiple trail segments with dramatic river views, birdwatching opportunities, and access to historic sites. Well-marked paths make it easy for both beginners and experienced hikers to enjoy the riverfront scenery.
| Trail Segment | Approx. Distance | Difficulty | Main Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hidden Falls Area | 1–3 miles | Easy | Waterfall, riverside paths, picnic areas |
| Crosby Farm Area | 2–6 miles | Easy to Moderate | Floodplain forest, wildlife viewing, river overlooks |
| Lilydale Regional Park | 2–4 miles | Moderate | Bluffs, fossils, city skyline views |
Crosby Farm Regional Park
Crosby Farm Regional Park is one of the largest natural areas in Saint Paul, offering miles of flat, shaded trails along the Mississippi River. This park is ideal for families, casual walkers, and nature photographers. As you explore, you will pass through lush floodplain forests, quiet backwaters, and open fields, creating a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
Hidden Falls Regional Park
Just upriver from Crosby Farm, Hidden Falls Regional Park offers a short but rewarding hike to its namesake waterfall. Trails weave through wooded ravines and down to the river’s edge, providing a cool, shaded environment on warm summer days. The relatively gentle grades make Hidden Falls a perfect option for new hikers or those looking for a relaxed outing with scenic views.
Lilydale Regional Park And Harriet Island
For those seeking a blend of bluff-top vistas and river-level walking, Lilydale Regional Park and nearby Harriet Island deliver some of the best hiking in Saint Paul. Trails climb gradually to overlook points where you can admire downtown Saint Paul and the sweeping Mississippi River valley. Meanwhile, riverside paths on Harriet Island offer flat, accessible routes that are ideal for walking, jogging, and photography.
| Location | Best For | Season Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Lilydale Bluffs | Scenic overlooks, moderate hikes | Fall colors, sunset views |
| Harriet Island | Easy walks, city skyline photo spots | Spring and summer river activity |
Battle Creek Regional Park
On the city’s eastern side, Battle Creek Regional Park offers rolling, wooded terrain that feels surprisingly remote. A network of interconnected trails ranges from gentle loops to more challenging climbs, making it a versatile destination for hikers and trail runners. In addition, the park’s mixture of prairie, forest, and creek-side paths provides excellent wildlife and birdwatching opportunities.
Conclusion
From riverfront strolls to bluff-top lookouts, the best hiking trails in Saint Paul, MN, offer a diverse range of outdoor experiences. Whether you choose Crosby Farm’s shaded paths, Hidden Falls’ quiet ravines, Lilydale’s panoramic views, or Battle Creek’s rolling hills, you will find a trail that matches your skill level and interests. As you plan your next hike, consider visiting multiple parks to fully appreciate the natural beauty woven throughout Saint Paul’s urban landscape.
Finding the Best Hiking Trails in Saint Paul, MN
What are some of the best hiking areas in and around Saint Paul, MN?
Some of the most popular hiking areas in and around Saint Paul include Battle Creek Regional Park, Crosby Farm Regional Park, and Hidden Falls Regional Park along the Mississippi River. Nearby, Fort Snelling State Park offers additional miles of riverside and woodland trails. For a more urban experience, the Bruce Vento Regional Trail and the Mississippi River Boulevard paths provide scenic walking routes with views of the river, bluffs, and city skyline. Each of these areas offers well-marked trails suitable for casual walkers and more serious hikers alike.
How can I find hiking trails in Saint Paul that match my skill level?
To find trails that match your skill level in Saint Paul, start by checking the Ramsey County Parks and Saint Paul Parks and Recreation websites, which provide trail maps, distances, and difficulty descriptions. Many regional parks, such as Battle Creek and Crosby Farm, post trail information at kiosks near parking areas, including elevation changes and surface types. You can also use hiking apps and trail websites that allow you to filter by distance, elevation gain, and user ratings. Beginners may prefer flatter riverside paths, while intermediate hikers can look for longer loop trails with rolling hills and mixed terrain.
Where can I find family-friendly hiking trails in Saint Paul?
Family-friendly hiking options in Saint Paul include the paved and mostly flat paths at Como Regional Park and the Mississippi River Boulevard trails, which are suitable for strollers and young children. Crosby Farm Regional Park offers wide dirt paths through forest and along the river, with several short loop options that are easy to shorten or extend. Hidden Falls Regional Park also has gentle riverside trails and picnic areas, making it a good choice for families who want a short hike combined with a picnic or playtime by the water. Before heading out, review trail maps to choose routes with shorter distances and easy access to restrooms and parking.
What is the best time of year to hike in Saint Paul, MN?
Spring through fall is generally the best time to hike in Saint Paul. Late spring and early summer offer mild temperatures, budding trees, and fewer bugs than midsummer. Autumn is especially popular thanks to the colorful foliage along the Mississippi River bluffs and in wooded parks like Battle Creek and Crosby Farm. Winter hiking is possible with proper gear, and many trails are open year-round, but you should prepare for snow, ice, and cold temperatures. Always check park websites or social media for seasonal trail closures, flooding alerts along river trails, and winter grooming information if you plan to hike on multi-use or ski trails.
Are there resources or maps available to help plan a hiking route in Saint Paul?
Hikers can access a variety of resources to plan routes in Saint Paul. The official websites for Saint Paul Parks and Recreation and Ramsey County Parks provide downloadable and printable maps for major parks and regional trails, including Battle Creek, Crosby Farm, and Hidden Falls. Many trailheads feature on-site maps and wayfinding signs that show loop options and distances. In addition, popular hiking and outdoor apps allow you to view GPS-based maps, elevation profiles, and recent user reviews for local trails. Combining these online resources with posted maps at park entrances is an effective way to confirm trail conditions, identify parking locations, and choose routes that fit your time and fitness level.
latest video
news via inbox
Sign up to get local tips delivered to your inbox.
