The best walks and hikes in Minnesota

Minnesota offers a vast network of over 1,000 hiking routes. These include a wide range of options, from easy urban loops to more challenging wilderness trails, catering to various skill levels.

Hiking in Minnesota provides diverse scenery, from the dense forests and rocky bluffs along the North Shore of Lake Superior to numerous serene lakes and river valleys throughout the state. You'll find everything from gentle paths around urban lakes to rugged trails in state parks and national forests.

Yes, Minnesota has many easy trails suitable for families. For instance, the Lake Harriet Park loop — Minneapolis is an easy 2.9-mile (4.6 km) trail, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Another great option is the Gooseberry Falls State Park loop via Fifth Falls, which is 3 miles (4.9 km) and features beautiful waterfalls.

Minnesota is home to several beautiful waterfalls accessible via hiking trails. You can explore the Minnehaha Falls in Minneapolis or visit Gooseberry Falls, which is part of the Gooseberry Falls State Park loop.

While many trails are easy to moderate, Minnesota does offer more challenging options. The Bean and Bear Lakes Loop — Superior National Forest is a moderate 6.5-mile (10.5 km) trail with significant elevation gain, providing a more strenuous experience through forested areas and past scenic lakes.

The hiking routes in Minnesota are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 470 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from serene lake loops to scenic forest paths, and the well-maintained trails that offer access to both natural beauty and urban green spaces.

Yes, Minnesota features many excellent loop trails. Popular choices include the Bde Maka Ska Park loop — Minneapolis, a 3.2-mile (5.1 km) urban loop, and the Oberg Mountain Trail — Superior National Forest, an easy 2.4-mile (3.9 km) loop offering panoramic views.

Beyond the trails themselves, Minnesota boasts several natural monuments and interesting geological features. You can visit the Confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers, explore the unique Glacial Potholes at Interstate State Park, or hike through the scenic Mississippi Gorge Regional Park.

Minneapolis offers several accessible hiking trails. Besides the popular Lake Harriet loop, you can also enjoy the Lake of the Isles loop — Minneapolis, a 2.7-mile (4.4 km) easy trail, or the Minnehaha Regional Park loop — Minneapolis, which is 2.1 miles (3.3 km) and includes the famous Minnehaha Falls.

Elevation gain varies significantly across Minnesota's diverse terrain. Many urban lake loops, like those in Minneapolis, have minimal elevation changes, often less than 50 feet (15 meters). However, trails in areas like the Superior National Forest, such as the Bean and Bear Lakes Loop, can feature more substantial climbs, with elevation gains around 640 feet (195 meters).

Yes, some trails incorporate historical elements. For example, you can find the Indian Mounds Park, which is a significant historical site. Additionally, the Old Mill Ruins can be explored, offering a glimpse into the region's past.