The best walks and hikes around Edina

Yes, there are over 160 routes to explore in the Edina area. The majority are easy, well-maintained paths through city parks and along creeks, making it a very accessible region for walkers and hikers.

The trails around Edina are highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful atmosphere along the creeks, and the beautiful scenery within the city's extensive park system.

For a very easy and scenic walk that's great for families, consider the Bass Lake Park & Wolfe Park loop. It's a relatively short, paved path that is perfect for a relaxed outing with children.

Many parks in Edina are dog-friendly, but dogs must be on a leash. Bredesen Park is a popular choice for dog walkers, offering a mix of paved and unpaved nature trails. Always check local signage for specific park rules.

The Normandale Lake Trail loop from Pentagon Park is an excellent choice. It's a fully paved path that circles the lake, offering a smooth and accessible surface with lovely water views.

Absolutely. Many trails, especially in parks like Braemar Park, are open for winter hiking and snowshoeing. The paved regional trails are often cleared, but it's always wise to wear appropriate winter hiking boots with good grip for icy conditions.

While most of Edina is relatively flat, some parks offer more varied terrain. Braemar Park features rolling hills and unpaved trails that provide a bit more of a challenge than the typical city park path. Some sections of the nature trail in Bredesen Park are also hilly.

For a more immersive hiking experience, Bredesen Park and Braemar Park are excellent choices. Bredesen Park is a large nature reserve with a mix of paved and unpaved trails through woods and marshland. Braemar Park, Edina's largest, offers a more rugged feel with unpaved trails through oak ridges and around lakes.

Bredesen Park is a standout for wildlife. Its large marsh and wooded areas are home to deer, fox, herons, and various other birds. The paths along Nine Mile Creek also offer great opportunities to spot turtles and waterfowl in a peaceful setting.

Most parks in Edina, such as Bredesen Park, Centennial Lakes Park, and Braemar Park, have dedicated parking lots. The Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail also has several access points with parking available. For specific park facility details, you can check the official city website.

Restrooms are typically available at the main park facilities, such as at Centennial Lakes Park and Braemar Park. Along longer routes like the Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail, facilities can be found at trailheads and where the path passes through major parks. It's a good idea to plan ahead as they may not be available on more remote sections.

For most trails, comfortable walking shoes are sufficient. If you plan to explore the unpaved nature trails in parks like Bredesen or Braemar, hiking shoes with better traction are recommended, especially after rain. Always dress in layers, as Minnesota weather can change quickly.