The best walks and hikes around Afton

Embark on the easy Trout Brook Loop, a delightful hike spanning 3.3 miles (5.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 366 feet (111 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 29 minutes. As you follow Trout Brook through a secluded ravine, you will find yourself surrounded by dense canopies of aspen, birch, and oak trees, providing plenty of shade. The trail features a stair-covered hill and a climb over a bluff top, where you can enjoy views of the St. Croix River. Keep an eye out for colorful patches of wildflowers dotting the hillsides during your journey.

While the Trout Brook Loop is rated easy, be ready for some steep sections, especially as you climb over the bluff top, which can offer a good workout. The path is mostly singletrack, making for an intimate hiking experience. You are welcome to bring your dog along, as the trail is dog-friendly. General parking is conveniently available within Afton State Park, providing easy access to the trailhead.

This trail offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Afton State Park, showcasing a diverse ecosystem along Trout Brook. The blend of dense forest and open bluff views provides a varied landscape for your hike. It's a great option if you are looking for a relatively short and accessible outdoor adventure that still offers rewarding scenery and a bit of a challenge on its inclines.

Embark on the easy Bluebird and Butterfly Loop, a pleasant hike through the natural landscapes of Belwin Conservancy. This route spans 2.9 miles (4.6 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of 125 feet (38 metres), making it accessible for most. You can expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 12 minutes, offering a relaxed outdoor experience. As you walk, keep an eye out for local wildlife and diverse plant life. A peaceful bench overlooking a pond provides a quiet spot to pause and enjoy the scenery.

Accessing the Bluebird and Butterfly Loop is straightforward, with the main parking lot conveniently located right at the trailhead. You won't need to worry about specific permits or fees for this hike, and there are no noted road closures to consider. To make the most of your visit, plan to go during favorable weather conditions. This easy route is suitable for a relaxed outing at any time of day, allowing you to enjoy the natural surroundings without rush.

The trail offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural environment of Belwin Conservancy. While specific details for this exact route are not widely documented, the focus here is on a peaceful journey through nature. You will discover diverse plant life and have chances to spot local wildlife. The presence of a pond with a resting bench highlights the conservancy's commitment to providing tranquil outdoor experiences.

The Afton Trail Run Course offers an easy hiking experience within Afton State Park, perfect for a quick outdoor escape. You will cover a distance of 0.9 miles (1.4 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 13 feet (4 metres), making it suitable for all skill levels. Expect to complete this pleasant route in about 22 minutes, enjoying varied scenery as you go. Keep an eye out for the Saint Croix River Viewpoint, where the bluff drops dramatically over 300 feet to the water below, providing a memorable vista.

When planning your visit, you will find this accessible route starts conveniently from the park's Visitor Center, where parking is generally available. While Afton State Park is known for its more challenging annual trail races, this particular course is designed for a relaxed outing. Before heading out, it is always a good idea to check the park's official website for any current alerts or fees that might apply to your visit.

As you hike, you will experience a mix of landscapes, from restored prairies to thickly wooded ravines filled with oak, aspen, and birch trees. The trail also features interesting sandstone outcrops and opportunities to spot local wildlife, such as deer. This route provides a taste of the natural beauty of Afton State Park, offering a peaceful and engaging short hike.