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Minnesota
Anoka County

St. Francis

Attractions and Places To See around St. Francis - Top 6

Best attractions and places to see around St. Francis include a variety of outdoor recreational areas and parks. This region offers extensive trail networks for hiking and cycling, alongside facilities for family-friendly activities. Visitors can explore natural landscapes, from woods and prairies to wetlands, providing diverse outdoor experiences.

Best attractions and places to see around St. Francis

  • The most popular attractions is Woodland Trails Park Trailhead, a trailhead that provides access to a 427-acre park with woods, prairies, and…

Last updated: May 15, 2026

Woodland Trails Park Trailhead

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Woodland Trails Regional Park, called the “crown jewel” of the Elk River park system, encompasses 427 acres of woods, prairies, and wetlands. The park features an extensive trail network with …

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Zimmerman Lions Club Memorial Park

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This is the access for the current north terminus of the Great Northern Trail that runs from Elk River to Zimmerman. There are covered and open picnic facilities, public restrooms, and a disc golf course.

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Nature Play Area

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A kids adventure playland with lots of rocks, bridges, tree stumps, etc to climb around on. Plus a picnic shelter and a small cabin.

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Archery Range

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Archery Range with several distances of targets and a nice looking setup.

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Picnic Shelter and Fire Pit

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Nice big picnic shelter and a firepit with firewood

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Renner Anderson
February 8, 2026, Archery Range

The archery range offers eight targets set between 10 and 40 yards, with 16 different shooting positions. Range rules state that children under 18 must be supervised by an adult and that broadheads, crossbows, and firearms are not allowed.

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There are actually three pavilions at Woodland Trails Regional Park. Reservations are recommended to secure space. They can be made at the City of Elk River Website.

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The tunnel cave looks inviting to explorers.

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Woodland Trails Regional Park, called the “crown jewel” of the Elk River park system, encompasses 427 acres of woods, prairies, and wetlands. The park features an extensive trail network with approximately 10 miles of routes to explore and serves as a trailhead for the Great Northern Trail, a 9-mile corridor running from Elk River to Zimmerman. A 4.75-mile paved section of the Great Northern Trail passes through Woodland Trails Regional Park, providing a smooth surface for biking and walking, while additional unpaved paths offer opportunities for hiking and jogging. The park is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

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tcbscott
February 8, 2026, Archery Range

Archery Range with several distances of targets and a nice looking setup.

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Nice big picnic shelter and a firepit with firewood

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tcbscott
February 8, 2026, Nature Playground

A kids adventure playland with lots of rocks, bridges, tree stumps, etc to climb around on. Plus a picnic shelter and a small cabin.

2

0

Nice big parking lot with porta-potties and trailmaps. Nearby picnic shelters, nature playground, archery range, bike trails, walking trails, and GREAT ski trails.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best outdoor activities to do around St. Francis?

St. Francis offers a variety of outdoor activities, primarily centered around its extensive park system. You can explore the 10 miles of trails at Woodland Trails Park Trailhead for hiking, jogging, or biking. The area also features disc golf courses, such as the one at Zimmerman Lions Club Memorial Park, and an Archery Range for target practice.

Are there family-friendly attractions in St. Francis?

Yes, St. Francis is very family-friendly. The Nature Play Area is a highlight, offering an adventure playland with rocks, bridges, and tree stumps for climbing. Woodland Trails Park Trailhead also features a nature playground and extensive trails suitable for families. Additionally, the Archery Range is open to all ages, with supervision required for children under 18.

Where can I find hiking and biking trails in St. Francis?

The primary hub for trails is Woodland Trails Park Trailhead, which provides access to approximately 10 miles of trails within the park, including a 4.75-mile paved section of the Great Northern Trail. This trail also extends from Elk River to Zimmerman, with Zimmerman Lions Club Memorial Park serving as its current north terminus.

What facilities are available at the parks in St. Francis?

Parks in St. Francis offer various facilities. Woodland Trails Park Trailhead has a large parking lot, porta-potties, trail maps, picnic shelters, and a nature playground. Zimmerman Lions Club Memorial Park provides covered and open picnic facilities, public restrooms, and a disc golf course. You can also find a Picnic Shelter and Fire Pit at Woodland Trails Regional Park, with reservations recommended.

Is there parking available at St. Francis attractions?

Yes, there is ample parking. For instance, Woodland Trails Park Trailhead offers a nice big parking lot, making it convenient for visitors to access the park's extensive trail network and facilities.

Are there any wheelchair accessible facilities in St. Francis parks?

Yes, the Picnic Shelter and Fire Pit at Woodland Trails Regional Park is noted as being wheelchair accessible, providing an inclusive space for visitors to enjoy.

What is the best time of year to visit St. Francis for outdoor activities?

St. Francis offers outdoor activities year-round. Spring, summer, and fall are ideal for hiking, biking, and disc golf. In winter, Woodland Trails Park Trailhead is known for its great ski trails, providing opportunities for cross-country skiing.

Can I spot wildlife on the trails around St. Francis?

The parks around St. Francis, particularly Woodland Trails Park Trailhead, encompass 427 acres of woods, prairies, and wetlands. These diverse habitats provide opportunities for wildlife spotting, including various bird species and small mammals.

Are there places to eat or drink near the attractions in St. Francis?

While the immediate attractions focus on outdoor recreation, the nearby town of Bethel, a short drive from St. Francis, is home to the Garphish Brewing Company, offering a local option for refreshments.

What makes Woodland Trails Park a 'crown jewel' of the Elk River park system?

Woodland Trails Park Trailhead is considered the 'crown jewel' due to its expansive 427 acres featuring a rich mix of woods, prairies, and wetlands. It boasts an extensive network of approximately 10 miles of trails, including a paved section of the Great Northern Trail, and offers facilities like a nature playground and picnic areas, catering to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.

What kind of activities can I do at Zimmerman Lions Club Memorial Park?

Zimmerman Lions Club Memorial Park provides access to the north terminus of the Great Northern Trail, making it a good starting point for walks or bike rides. It also features a disc golf course, covered and open picnic facilities, and public restrooms, making it a versatile spot for recreation and relaxation.

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