The best cycling routes around Prior Lake
4.5
(86)
535
riders
40
rides
Touring cycling around Prior Lake, Minnesota, offers routes through a landscape characterized by extensive waterways, including Upper and Lower Prior Lakes, and diverse natural features. The region features a blend of peaceful nature, picturesque forests, and open fields. An extensive network of trails, many with paved surfaces, provides numerous opportunities for exploration. The area's parks, such as Spring Lake Regional Park and Cleary Lake Regional Park, contribute to the varied terrain available for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes around…
Last updated: April 30, 2026
11
riders
7.36km
00:26
20m
20m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
10
riders
24.5km
01:26
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(4)
6
riders
22.9km
01:22
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.0
(1)
4
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
21.2km
01:16
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Challenging biking, I've only done the beginner and intermediate. I like the beginner loop a lot, out in the prairie, fast packed sand with some small jumps.
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This entry point to the Minnesota Valley Trail is conveniently located off State Highway 101. Ample parking is available, though there are no restrooms on site. From here, the trail heads west toward Shakopee or north across the Minnesota River to Bloomington.
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Shakopee Memorial Park is a community green space centered around the historic Mill Pond. This pond, which winds through the park, is fed by natural springs that originate at the site of Samuel Pond's mission to the Dakota people, connecting the park to the region's earliest history. At the lower end of Mill Pond, a grist mill once played a vital role in the community. Built and operated by Samuel Pond's sons, Martin and Robert Pond, the mill used water from the pond to power its operations. Today, the park offers a tranquil setting that honors the legacy of the Pond family and the city’s industrial origins.
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This 137-acre park, the largest in Shakopee, offers trails and bridges with beautiful views of the water. You can find several benches and picnic shelters for taking a break. The park is unique for its Veterans Memorial and Native American burial mounds.
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Murphy-Hanrehan has miles of singletrack trails suited to riders of all abilities. Most of the trails would be considered easy by experienced riders, and the majority of technical features have ride arounds, so even beginners should be able to complete the loop. A hardtail mountain bike is more than enough to handle the terrain and experience riders could probably handle it on a hybrid or gravel bike.
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Always a nice stopping place for a water break and to enjoy looking at the brewery ruins
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Great parking lot, clean pit toilets, nice warming house for winter skiing when open.
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The Landing — Minnesota River Heritage Park is located in Shakopee, Minnesota, and is a living history museum that recreates 19th-century life along the Minnesota River Valley. Spanning 88 acres, the park features over 40 restored buildings from the 1840s to the 1890s, arranged chronologically to illustrate the region's development. Visitors can explore the grounds daily through self-guided tours. On select days, costumed interpreters offer demonstrations and narratives, bringing historical experiences to life. The park also hosts seasonal events and educational programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Prior Lake?
Prior Lake offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 35 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, ensuring there's something for everyone.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Prior Lake?
The touring cycling routes in Prior Lake traverse a diverse landscape, characterized by extensive waterways, including Upper and Lower Prior Lakes, and a blend of peaceful nature, picturesque forests, and open fields. Many routes feature mostly paved surfaces, making them accessible for general touring. You'll find trails winding through forests and prairies, offering varied scenery.
Are there touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Prior Lake?
Yes, Prior Lake is very welcoming for beginners. Out of the 35 available routes, 27 are classified as easy, making them perfect for those new to touring cycling or looking for a relaxed ride. An example of an easy route is the Cleary Lake Regional Park loop from Credit River.
What do other cyclists say about touring cycling in Prior Lake?
The touring cycling routes in Prior Lake are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 80 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained trails, scenic lake views, and the peaceful atmosphere of the regional parks.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Prior Lake?
Yes, many of the routes in Prior Lake are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Cleary Lake Regional Park loop from Cleary Lake offers a scenic circular ride around the lake.
Can I find family-friendly touring cycling routes in Prior Lake?
Absolutely. The extensive network of paved trails and numerous easy routes make Prior Lake an excellent destination for family cycling. Parks like Cleary Lake Regional Park offer safe and enjoyable loops, such as the Cleary Lake Regional Park loop from Vernon Av, which are suitable for all ages.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions to see along the touring cycling routes?
While cycling around Prior Lake, you can explore several interesting points. You might pass by natural features like Staring Lake or historical sites such as The Landing – Minnesota River Heritage Park. The area also features unique natural monuments like the Seminary Fen Scientific and Natural Area.
What are the options for parking when cycling in Prior Lake?
Many regional parks in the Prior Lake area, such as Spring Lake Regional Park and Cleary Lake Regional Park, offer designated parking facilities for visitors. These parks serve as convenient starting points for various cycling routes.
Is public transport available to access touring cycling trails in Prior Lake?
While Prior Lake is primarily accessed by car, some regional trails, like sections of the Minnesota Valley State Trail, connect to nearby communities such as Shakopee, which may have public transport options. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for specific access points.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Prior Lake?
The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for touring cycling in Prior Lake, with pleasant temperatures and lush scenery. However, some parks like Cleary Lake Regional Park also support fat tire biking in winter, extending the cycling season for those with appropriate gear.
Are there any routes that connect multiple regional parks?
Yes, some routes are designed to link different park areas, providing varied scenery and longer rides. For example, the Cleary Lake Regional Park – Murphy-Hanrehan Trailhead loop from Vernon Av connects two regional parks, offering diverse landscapes through forests and open areas.
Are there any long-distance trails suitable for touring cyclists?
Beyond the local loops, the region is home to the Minnesota Valley State Trail, a 27-mile multi-use trail with both paved and unpaved sections. A paved portion extends from Shakopee to Chaska, running along the northern border of Scott County, offering a longer touring option.
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