The best cycling routes around New Brighton
4.4
(176)
1,399
riders
134
rides
Touring cycling around New Brighton, Minnesota, features a network of trails traversing diverse landscapes. The region is characterized by woodland scenery, open prairie grass, and several lakes including Long Lake, Rush Lake, and Pike Lake. Routes often follow natural waterways like Rice Creek and segments of the Mississippi River, providing varied terrain for cyclists. The area offers a mix of paved trails and scenic paths suitable for different cycling preferences.
Best touring cycling routes around New Brighton
- The most popular…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
2.0
(1)
2
riders
20.8km
01:14
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
1
riders
45.0km
02:38
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(6)
18
riders
32.8km
01:54
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
9
riders
32.0km
01:52
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
riders
14.5km
00:49
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The St. Anthony Parkway Bridge crosses over the busy BNSF Northtown Rail Yard. Originally built in 1925 as a five-span Warren truss bridge, it was replaced in 2016 with a modern steel truss structure that honors its historic predecessor. Today, the bridge includes an interpretive plaza with preserved truss elements and great views of the rail yard, providing an insight into the area's industrial history.
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This 8-acre park consists of three islands located in the Mississippi River. While Chase Island is accessible on foot, the other two can be reached by water or enjoyed from a distance. The park earned its name from its founder's quote, "Where Peace Is A Way of Life Every Hour of Every Day for All Those Willing to Share the Experience."
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The Rice Creek Regional Trail near Mounds View is split into a northern and a western section. The northern section follows the name-giving Rice Creek and encircles two little ponds while passing through woodlands and open meadows.
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A stretch of fun singletrack swoops along beside the trail. If you don't want to give it a shot, you can stay on the main trail, which is comfortable for cyclists of all levels.
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The Rice Creek West Regional Trail is a 4-mile-long trail that connects Creekview Park with Locke County Park. The trail is full paved and takes you through beautiful woodland scenery.
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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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The Coon Rapids Dam sits on the Mississippi River between Brooklyn Park and Coon Rapids. The dam was built by Northern States Power Company in 1913–1914 for hydropower, operating until 1966. Today, visitors can explore the Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park, open from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm, with the Visitor Center open Monday through Friday based on staff availability and on weekends from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The park offers activities like fishing at Cenaiko Lake, picnic pavilions, a boat launch, snowshoe rentals, and trails for biking, walking, and running. Seasonal concerts are every Thursday night at 7:00 pm during warm seasons. Enjoy the natural side of the park too like edible wild onions, blood root, and wildlife like ospreys, peregrine falcons, carp, and minks.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in New Brighton?
New Brighton offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 110 options available for exploration. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy to moderate.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on touring cycling routes in New Brighton?
Touring cycling routes in New Brighton, Minnesota, traverse diverse landscapes. You'll experience beautiful woodland scenery, open prairie grass, and views of several lakes, including Long Lake, Rush Lake, and Pike Lake. Many routes also follow natural waterways like Rice Creek and segments of the Mississippi River.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in New Brighton?
Yes, New Brighton has many easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners and families. Over 80 routes are classified as easy. A great option is the Rice Creek Regional Trail Loop, which is 12.9 miles (20.8 km) long and offers a pleasant ride through natural surroundings.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in New Brighton?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in New Brighton are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular circular routes include the Mississippi River and Rice Creek West Trail Loop, the Stone Arch Bridge – View of Saint Anthony Falls loop from Columbia Heights, and the Long Lake loop from New Brighton.
What do other cyclists say about the touring routes in New Brighton?
The touring cycling routes in New Brighton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 230 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the scenic views of lakes and woodlands, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable ride.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, several routes offer access to interesting landmarks and natural features. You can cycle past the historic Stone Arch Bridge and view Saint-Anthony-Falls. Other routes provide views of Como Lake and the Coon Rapids Dam, offering diverse points of interest.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in New Brighton?
The best time for touring cycling in New Brighton, Minnesota, is typically from spring through fall, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is vibrant. Summer offers lush greenery, while autumn provides beautiful fall foliage. Winter cycling is possible, but trails may be snow-covered, requiring appropriate gear.
Are there any routes that offer views of the Mississippi River?
Absolutely. The Mississippi River and Rice Creek West Trail Loop is a prime example, winding through woodlands and directly along the Mississippi River, offering scenic views of this iconic waterway.
Can I find routes that are mostly paved or traffic-free?
Many touring cycling routes in New Brighton feature paved trails and are designed to be traffic-free, especially those within regional parks and along designated bike paths. This makes them ideal for a relaxed and safe cycling experience through natural settings.
Are there longer, more challenging touring cycling routes in New Brighton?
While many routes are easy, New Brighton also offers moderate options for those seeking a longer ride. The Mississippi River and Rice Creek West Trail Loop, at 27.9 miles (45.0 km), and the Stone Arch Bridge – View of Saint Anthony Falls loop from Columbia Heights, at 28.9 miles (46.5 km), are popular moderate routes that provide a good challenge.
What are some good options for a shorter touring cycling trip?
For a shorter trip, consider the Rice Creek Regional Trail Loop, which is 12.9 miles (20.8 km) and typically takes about 1 hour 13 minutes. Another easy option is the Through the pines loop from Mounds View, a 9.0 mile (14.5 km) route.
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