The best walks and hikes around St. Paul
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Hiking around St. Paul offers a mix of urban and natural environments, with many trails following the Mississippi River. The region's landscape is characterized by river bluffs, dense floodplain forests, and expansive city parks. Most routes are on paved or well-maintained paths with minimal elevation change, making them accessible for various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around St. Paul
- The most popular hiking route is Lake Phalen loop — Saint Paul, a 3.7 mile (6.0 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4
hikers
8.65km
02:16
70m
70m
Embark on the Snelling Lake, Fort Snelling, Picnic Island Loop, a moderate hike that guides you through the unique floodplain forests of Fort Snelling State Park. As you follow the…
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
1.97km
00:30
0m
10m
Embark on the Crosby Farm Upper Lake Loop, an easy hike that offers a tranquil escape into nature. This gentle route winds around Upper Lake, providing pleasant water views and…
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1.22km
00:20
30m
20m
Embark on an easy hike along the Shadow Falls via Shadow Falls Trail, a short route that quickly immerses you in nature. This trail leads you to the impressive Shadow…
3.26km
00:53
50m
60m
Embark on the Shadow Falls Loop for an easy hike that immerses you in diverse scenery. You will descend into a ravine where a bubbling brook flows, surrounded by dense…
13.5km
03:29
80m
50m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Big Rivers Regional Trail, a route spanning 8.4 miles (13.5 km) with an elevation gain of 265 feet (81 metres). You can expect…
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Tips from the Community
Nice river views from the bike path.
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Some nice river views here, river on one side, sandstone cliffs on the other, wide trail, some benches.
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Nice parking, river overlook, bathrooms, picnic shelter, etc.
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This is a spot along the Big Rivers Regional Trail with benches where you can sit and admire the Mississippi River flowing by. Just a few meters away, you can also see the confluence with the Minnesota River.
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Lucky's, "Where strangers become friends, and friends become family." Established in 2007, Lucky's 13 Pub has a history rooted in the success of its founders, Charlie Burrows and Linda Young, who also created Axel's Restaurant, located immediately next door, in 1996. Unfortunately, Axel's permanently closed its doors in September 2024, after 29 years of continuous operation. Thankfully, Lucky's continues to thrive. The name "Lucky's 13" directly references Highway 13 in Mendota, Minnesota, where Axel's and Lucky's 13 Pub were first established. The founders considered Highway 13 "lucky" for their business ventures. Lucky's is situated along both the Mississippi River Regional Trail and the MRT (Mississippi River Trail), which stretches from Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota to New Orleans near the mouth of the Mississippi River in the Gulf of Mexico. It provides a refreshing stop and a place to rest for tired and thirsty travelers.
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Here is a link to a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources map of summer trails at Fort Snelling State Park (https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/maps/state_parks/spk00154_summer.pdf). Although bicycles are allowed on many of the park trials, the legend on the map shows, sadly, that the circumferential trail on Pike Island is for hiking only.
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at the tip of Pike Islands a very nice packed Earth bike route around this little Island
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in St. Paul?
Yes, many parks in St. Paul are dog-friendly, but they must be kept on a leash. Highly-regarded parks like Crosby Farm Regional Park and Battle Creek Regional Park welcome leashed dogs on their trails. Always check the specific park's regulations before you go.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls in the St. Paul area?
Definitely. Hidden Falls Regional Park is a local favorite, featuring a charming waterfall that is easily accessible via a short trail. For another option, Shadow Falls Park offers a serene setting with a trail leading down to its own waterfall and views of the Mississippi River.
What are some good, easy hikes for families with children?
St. Paul has numerous easy trails perfect for a family outing. The trails at Indian Mounds Regional Park are generally flat and offer great views of the river and city skyline, along with historical points of interest. The paved paths at Crosby Farm Regional Park are also an excellent choice, providing a gentle walk through a peaceful, wooded environment.
Can I find paved trails suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?
Yes, many of St. Paul's parks feature paved trails. Hidden Falls Regional Park has about 6.7 miles of paved paths that are great for strollers. Crosby Farm Regional Park also offers extensive paved trails through its woodlands, making it another accessible option for a smooth walk.
What is the best time of year for hiking around St. Paul?
Hiking in St. Paul is enjoyable year-round, but autumn is particularly spectacular. The trails along the Mississippi River bluffs, such as those in Cherokee Regional Park, offer stunning fall colors. Summer provides lush greenery in the floodplain forests, while spring brings wildflowers and flowing waterfalls.
How difficult are the hiking trails in St. Paul?
The majority of trails are rated as easy. Most routes are on flat or gently rolling terrain, often within city parks or along the river. For a bit more of a challenge, some trails in Battle Creek Regional Park include steeper sections and a 200-foot elevation gain, providing a moderate workout.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in St. Paul?
The trails around St. Paul are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the surprising feeling of being immersed in nature so close to the city, the beautiful views of the Mississippi River from the bluffs, and the well-maintained paths in the regional parks.
Are there any fees for hiking in St. Paul's parks?
Most regional parks in St. Paul, such as Crosby Farm, Hidden Falls, and Battle Creek, are free to enter and use. However, state parks like Fort Snelling State Park require a vehicle permit for entry, which can be purchased for a day or a full year.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The parks around St. Paul are home to a variety of wildlife. It's common to see deer, foxes, squirrels, and a wide array of bird species, especially along the Mississippi River corridor. While black bears exist in Minnesota, they are not typically seen on trails within the city limits of St. Paul.
How can I find circular hiking routes?
Many of the most popular trails in St. Paul are loops. For example, the Harriet Island & Cherokee Regional Parks loop offers a scenic circuit with river views. You can easily find more circular routes by using the 'Tour type' filter in the komoot Route Planner and selecting 'Round trip'.
What should I wear for a hike in this region?
Dressing in layers is key. Minnesota weather can change quickly. Wear moisture-wicking clothing and bring a waterproof jacket, even if the forecast is clear. Sturdy walking shoes are sufficient for most paved and dirt paths, but waterproof hiking boots are recommended for muddier trails, especially in the spring or after rain.
Are there any moderate hikes for a better workout?
Yes, if you're looking for something more strenuous than a flat walk, the Mississippi Gorge Regional Park loop is a great option. This 5.7-mile trail includes some elevation changes as it follows the river gorge, offering a solid moderate hike.
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