Easy hikes and walks in Clay County

Hike the easy 3.0-mile Old Grade to River View to Wide Sky Trail in Buffalo River State Park, gaining 45 feet in 1 hour and 13 minutes.

The Forest River Loop invites you to a peaceful hiking experience, offering a refreshing break within natural surroundings. You can enjoy a tranquil walk through pleasant forest environments, with potential glimpses of the river as you follow the path. This easy route covers 1.3 miles (2.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 16 feet (5 metres), typically taking around 30 minutes to complete.

Located within Forest River Park in Fargo, North Dakota, the trailhead is easily accessible for your convenience. You will generally find parking available at the park entrances; however, it is always wise to check local park signs upon arrival for any specific instructions. There are no permits or fees mentioned for accessing this loop, making it a straightforward option for a spontaneous outdoor activity.

This trail stands out as a great spot to enjoy a short, tranquil outdoor experience, providing a quick immersion in nature. It offers a simple way to connect with the natural environment and enjoy a moment of calm away from the city. The loop is particularly suitable if you are seeking a brief, undemanding hike.

The MB Johnson Walking/Snowshoeing Trail offers an easy hiking experience, guiding you along the scenic banks of the Red River. You will cover 2.3 miles (3.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 26 feet (8 metres), which typically takes about 55 minutes to complete. As you walk, you will pass through a pleasant mix of grassy meadows and wooded areas, providing picturesque views of the river and its surroundings.

When planning your visit, be aware that MB Johnson Park is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm. During winter months, specific trail uses are regulated; for instance, walking and Nordic/XC skiing are generally not allowed on groomed snow bike trails to help maintain their condition. However, the park does provide alternative trails that are well-suited for winter hiking and snowshoeing, so you can still enjoy the snowy landscape.

This route is part of MB Johnson Park, which transforms into a serene setting for snowshoeing when winter arrives. While some sections are groomed for other activities, the trail itself provides a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area. It stands out as an accessible option for those looking to enjoy a straightforward outdoor excursion, whether you prefer a leisurely hike or a peaceful snowshoe adventure.

The Orchard Glen Loop offers an easy and refreshing hike, perfect for a quick outdoor escape. This gentle route covers 1.2 miles (2.0 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 26 feet (8 metres), taking about 30 minutes to complete. As you walk, you'll discover peaceful riverbank views along the Red River, transitioning into serene forested areas. The trail's highlight is its journey through a former apple orchard, now featuring a variety of fruit trees like juneberries, cherries, pears, and plums, creating a pleasant atmosphere.

Planning your visit to Orchard Glen is straightforward, as the park provides convenient parking right at the trailhead. You'll also find picnic areas available if you wish to extend your stay. Dogs are welcome to join you on the trail, but remember to keep them on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. Consider visiting during specific seasons if you're interested in harvesting fruit from the orchard for personal use.

This trail is notable for its unique blend of natural beauty and historical agricultural use. Depending on the time of year, you might witness vibrant pink blossoms in spring, lush summer greenery, or brilliant autumn colors. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species and pollinators, which are attracted to the diverse plant life, especially around the fruit trees.

Embark on an easy hike along the Blue Goose Trail, a paved path that guides you through a unique brackish marsh and wooded levee. You will pass shrub-scrub thickets and evergreen yaupon holly, eventually reaching the edge of Calcasieu Lake, also known as "Big Lake." This accessible route covers 0.7 miles (1.1 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 24 feet (7 metres), typically taking about 17 minutes to complete.

This trail is open year-round from dawn until dusk, offering flexibility for your visit. It is a paved and accessible route, suitable for all skill levels, including those with disabilities. You will find ample parking available, along with an interpretive kiosk and an observation deck equipped with a mounted spotting scope near the trailhead.

The Blue Goose Trail is a true haven for wildlife, especially for birdwatching enthusiasts. As you hike, you might spot a variety of wading birds, shorebirds, and waterfowl, and even diamond-backed terrapins. With 225 recorded bird species in the area, the diverse wildlife is a significant highlight of this trail.

Hike the easy 3.1-mile River View Trail Loop in Buffalo River State Park, offering scenic views of the Buffalo River and surrounding nature.

The Downtown Fargo River Walk offers a delightful and easy stroll along the Red River of the North, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll enjoy continuous river views, passing through charming spots like Wildflower Grove Park with its community gardens, and forested areas. The highlight for many is crossing the Pedestrian Bridge, which lets you step from North Dakota into Minnesota, experiencing two states on one scenic route.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with convenient parking available at locations such as Wildflower Grove Park. The trail is rated easy, covering 2.7 miles (4.4 km) with a minimal 55 feet (17 metres) of elevation gain, and typically takes about 1 hour and 7 minutes. It's a fantastic option for all ages and abilities, including those with strollers or wheelchairs, and it's dog-friendly too.

This Fargo Riverfront hiking route is notable for following the Red River, one of the few rivers in the United States that flows north into Canada. Beyond the natural beauty, you might spot wildlife like deer and enjoy vibrant murals in downtown Fargo, making it one of the best urban hikes in Fargo North Dakota.

Embark on an easy hike along the Lions MTB Trail, a 4.1-mile (6.5 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 39 minutes to complete. You'll experience a gentle elevation gain of just 47 feet (14 metres) as you wander through a mix of twisting forested sections and open prairie grass. The path offers pleasant views as it meanders alongside the embankment of the Red River of the North, providing a refreshing waterside experience.

Planning your visit to the Lions MTB Trail is straightforward. You'll find ample parking generally available at the various trailheads located within Lions Conservancy Park. For your convenience, portable restrooms are also situated at these parking areas. There are no specific permits or fees required to enjoy this easy hiking route, making it a great option for a spontaneous outdoor adventure.

The Lions MTB Trail is nestled within the scenic Lions Conservancy Park, offering a diverse natural environment. As you hike, you'll appreciate the varied landscape, transitioning between dense forested areas and expansive stretches of prairie grass. The trail's unique position along the Red River of the North provides a distinct waterside element, setting it apart from other local routes. This blend of river views and varied terrain makes it a notable and accessible option for a refreshing outdoor escape.

Embark on an easy hike along the Bergquist Pioneer Cabin via Moorhead Corridor River Trail, a peaceful and scenic route spanning 2.7 miles (4.3 km). You'll experience picturesque views along the Red River of the North, walking through natural habitats and forested sections. The trail is mostly paved and flat, typical of the Red River Valley, making for a relaxed journey with a gentle elevation gain of just 55 feet (17 metres). Expect to complete this pleasant walk in about 1 hour and 6 minutes, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

Planning your visit to this trail is straightforward. The route is generally accessible and easy to navigate, suitable for most hikers. You can find convenient parking at Wildflower Grove Park, which serves as an excellent starting point for your adventure. This makes it simple to begin your hike without hassle, allowing you to focus on enjoying the riverside scenery.

A significant highlight of this route is the historic Bergquist Pioneer Cabin. This cabin holds the distinction of being the oldest house in Moorhead still standing on its original site, having been built in 1871. The trail is also part of the larger Moorhead River Corridor Trail system, offering a great way to explore more of the area's natural beauty and history.