The best walks and hikes around Brooklyn Park
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Hiking around Brooklyn Park explores a landscape shaped by the Mississippi River, which forms its eastern boundary. The region features an extensive network of parks and trails, encompassing over 1,700 acres of parkland and environmental areas. The terrain is generally flat, characterized by diverse ecosystems including riverbanks, lakes, wetlands, and woodlands. Many trails are paved, ensuring accessibility for various activity levels.
Best hiking trails around Brooklyn Park
- The most popular hiking route is Coon Rapids Loop, a 2.6 miles (4.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 3 minutes to complete. This route follows paved paths along the Mississippi River, offering views of the Coon Rapids Dam.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Palmer Lake and Shingle Creek Trail Loop, a moderate 5.8 miles (9.4 km) path. This trail circles Palmer Lake and its surrounding marshes on a combination of paved and wood-chipped surfaces.
- Local hikers also love the West Mississippi River Regional Trail, an 8.0 miles (12.8 km) trail leading through riverside environments, often completed in about 3 hours 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Brooklyn Park is defined by riverside paths, lakeside loops, and trails through wetlands and woodlands. The extensive network of mostly flat and paved trails offers options suitable for different ability levels.
- The routes in Brooklyn Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 400 hikers have used komoot to explore Brooklyn Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
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4.13km
01:03
20m
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Embark on the Coon Rapids Loop, an easy hike spanning 2.6 miles (4.1 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 54 feet (17 metres). This route offers a refreshing escape into a wooded oasis along the Mississippi River, where you can stroll through mature trees and restored prairie sections. A highlight of your journey will be walking directly across the historic Coon Rapids Dam, providing unique perspectives of the river and opportunities to spot local wildlife like ospreys, all completed in about 1 hour and 3 minutes.
Planning your visit to Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park is straightforward, as parking is readily available. The park features a visitor center, picnic areas, and a playground, making it an excellent destination for families. If you wish to extend your adventure, the trail system conveniently connects to other regional routes, including the Mississippi River Regional Trail. Remember that dedicated natural-surface dog walking trails are also provided for your canine companions.
This loop offers more than just a walk; it's an immersion into a vibrant ecosystem where you might catch sight of purple asters blooming in September within the prairie sections. The historic Coon Rapids Dam itself is a significant landmark, providing both a unique vantage point and a chance to observe the river's natural inhabitants. The park's amenities and connectivity make it a central hub for outdoor activities in the region, blending natural beauty with convenient access.
12.8km
03:16
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Embark on a moderate hike along the West Mississippi River Regional Trail, a route that offers a smooth journey for various activities. You will experience diverse scenery, from open prairies to peaceful old tree groves, all on a comfortable asphalt surface. A highlight is the walkway atop Coon Rapids Dam within Mississippi Gateway Regional Park, providing spectacular views of the river. This trail covers 8.0 miles (12.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 94 feet (29 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete. It is an accessible path for anyone looking to enjoy the riverside environment.
The Three Rivers Park District manages the West Mississippi River Regional Trail, ensuring well-maintained paths for your visit. Its paved surface makes it highly accessible for a wide range of users, including hikers, runners, and cyclists. You will find convenient parking and access points at connected regional parks, such as Mississippi Gateway Regional Park. Planning your trip is straightforward, as the trail is designed for ease of use and enjoyment.
As you explore the trail, keep an eye out for abundant wildlife. You will have fantastic opportunities to spot deer, beavers, herons, and eagles in their natural habitat along the river. The walkway atop Coon Rapids Dam offers not only scenic views but also excellent chances to observe the river's ecosystem and its diverse inhabitants. This makes the trail a notable destination for nature enthusiasts in the region.
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2.06km
00:31
0m
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The Cenaiko Lake Loop offers an easy hiking experience within Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park, perfect if you're seeking a short, accessible outing. This pleasant route spans 1.3 miles (2.1 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 7 feet (2 metres), making it ideal for beginners or a quick stroll. You can expect to complete the loop in about 31 minutes, enjoying peaceful views of Cenaiko Lake, a man-made body of water nestled beside the Mississippi River, as you go.
Planning your visit to the Cenaiko Lake Loop is straightforward, with ample parking available directly at the trailhead. The trail is multi-use, welcoming both hikers and those with dogs, making it a great option for families and pet owners. Since much of the path is paved, it's generally easy to navigate, though you might encounter some muddy sections after rainfall, so choose your footwear accordingly.
Beyond the easy walk, the route provides a unique glimpse into restored prairie habitat, with tallgrass and shortgrass prairies lining the lake's banks. You'll also find two fishing piers along the way, which not only offer excellent vantage points over the lake but are also popular spots to observe the regularly stocked Rainbow Trout. This blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunity makes the Cenaiko Lake Loop a notable feature of the regional park.
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3.37km
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Hike the easy 2.1-mile Treetop Trail in Mississippi Gateway Regional Park for elevated views of the Mississippi River and Coon Rapids Dam.
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9.37km
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Hike the moderate 5.8-mile Palmer Lake and Shingle Creek Trail Loop in Brooklyn Park, offering natural scenery and connecting two water bodi
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Tips from the Community
The Mississippi River begins in Minnesota at Lake Itasca and flows 2,348 miles to the Gulf of Mexico. This particular spot offers close-up views of the usually calm water, providing a peaceful place to take a break.
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This 200-acre park is the largest in the city, with a multi-use loop trail that runs for several miles. Watch for birds and other wildlife around the lake and marshes!
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Coon Rapids Dam, located between Brooklyn Park and Coon Rapids, was built by Northern States Power Company in 1913-14 for hydropower generation, operating until 1966. The surrounding 446-acre Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park is a year-round recreational hub, with scenic views, hiking trails, picnic pavilions, fishing, and boating. The park connects to the Mississippi River Regional Trail, offering biking opportunities between Minneapolis and Ramsey.
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This trail extends over 8 miles and is a well-maintained paved path that takes you through parks and wetlands across most of Brooklyn Center. This section meanders along Shingle Creek, which gives the trail its name.
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Construction of the Coon Rapids Hydroelectric Power Dam began in the early 1900s with the aim of providing electricity to Anoka and Hennepin Counties. The dam is almost half a mile long and about 19 feet tall. This point offers impressive views of the roaring waters.
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The Mississippi River begins in Minnesota at Lake Itasca and flows 2,348 miles to the Gulf of Mexico. This particular spot offers close-up views of the usually calm water, providing a peaceful place to take a break.
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North Mississippi Regional Park is a long-reaching park along the Mississippi River. There are bike paths that travel the length of the park and offer great views of the river, bridges, islands, and dense woods. If you hop off your bike and sit by the riverside, you may just encounter some of the park's beaver population or spot some unique birds.
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This park, a 200-acre natural preserve, is the largest in the city. It features a well-maintained paved trail that encircles Palmer Lake, winding through lush trees that provide shade for a portion of your hike. The lake and marshes are home to numerous wildlife species.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails in Brooklyn Park suitable for families with children?
Yes, many trails are perfect for families. The area is known for its flat terrain and paved paths. A great option is the Mississippi Gateway Regional Park loop, which is a short, paved walk with fantastic views of the Coon Rapids Dam that kids will enjoy.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Dogs are generally welcome in the regional parks, but they must be on a leash of six feet or less. Always check the specific park regulations before you go. Parks like Mississippi Gateway Regional Park and Elm Creek Park Reserve are popular spots for dog walkers.
Are most of the trails paved?
Brooklyn Park has an excellent network of paved trails, making it very accessible for walkers, cyclists, and strollers. The Rush Creek and Shingle Creek Regional Trails are primarily paved. However, you can also find more rustic, natural-surface paths, such as the wood-chipped spur trails at Palmer Lake Park, if you're looking for a more traditional hiking experience.
Where can I find a quiet nature hike away from the crowds?
For a more tranquil experience, Palmer Lake Park is a 200-acre natural preserve within the city. The loop around the lake offers a peaceful setting, especially on the unpaved side trails. It's a favorite spot for birdwatchers due to its rich marshland habitat.
Are there any long-distance hiking options available?
Yes, the regional trails offer opportunities for longer hikes. The Rush Creek Regional Trail is nearly 10 miles long and connects Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park to the massive Elm Creek Park Reserve. You can combine trail sections to create a hike that suits your desired distance.
What is hiking like in the winter?
Winter hiking is a popular activity in Brooklyn Park. Many of the paved trails are cleared of snow, making them accessible for walking. For a more adventurous outing, other trails are left for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Elm Creek Park Reserve is particularly well-equipped for winter sports, including snow tubing.
Are there any waterfalls on the hiking trails?
The main water feature in the area is the Mississippi River and the Coon Rapids Dam, rather than natural waterfalls. The dam creates a powerful rush of water that is quite dramatic to see from the walkway at Mississippi Gateway Regional Park, offering a similar impressive water-based experience.
What are some popular places for hiking in Brooklyn Park?
Several parks are highly regarded by locals for hiking. Mississippi Gateway Regional Park is a top choice for its scenic river views and dam walkway. Elm Creek Park Reserve is a massive 4,900-acre park offering a wide variety of trails and activities. For a more urban nature escape, Palmer Lake Park provides a peaceful loop around a large wetland.
How do I get to the trailheads and is parking available?
Most of the major parks, such as Mississippi Gateway Regional Park and Elm Creek Park Reserve, are best accessed by car and have large, dedicated parking lots. The regional trail system also has multiple access points, some of which may be in residential areas with on-street parking.
Are most of the recommended hikes circular loops?
The area offers a good mix of both loop trails and point-to-point regional trails. Routes like the Coon Rapids Dam loop from Port Riverwalk are circular and bring you back to your starting point. Others, like the Shingle Creek and Rush Creek Regional Trails, are linear, allowing you to cover more ground in one direction.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Brooklyn Park?
The trails are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paved paths, the beautiful scenery along the Mississippi River, and the abundance of wildlife in the wetland areas like Palmer Lake. The accessibility for all skill levels is another frequently mentioned highlight.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife. Near the Mississippi River and in wetland areas like Palmer Lake, you have a good chance of spotting deer, beavers, minks, and a wide array of bird species, including herons and egrets. Early morning is often the best time for wildlife sightings.
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