Como Lake to Long Lake loop

This custom touring bicycle route offers a diverse range of scenery. Near Como Lake, you'll enjoy pleasant parkland views, including the lake itself, an 18-hole golf course, and the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. As you connect westward towards Long Lake Park, the landscape transitions from urban and suburban areas to more natural settings. You'll find wonderful lake views, particularly along Lake Minnetonka if using the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, and pass through wetlands, wooded areas, and agricultural land, with potential glimpses of wildlife.

The difficulty of this custom route can vary. The loop around Como Lake itself is generally considered easy and family-friendly, though some sections within Como Park have significant hills. The regional trails near Long Lake Park, like the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, are mostly flat and easy. However, connecting these two areas involves navigating urban and suburban roads, which might be more challenging for beginners. Overall, it's a moderate route due to its length and the varied terrain.

For the Como Lake section, parking is available near the Como Lake Pavilion within Como Regional Park. For the Long Lake area, you can find parking at various access points along regional trails like the Dakota Rail Regional Trail or the Luce Line State Trail, which pass near Long Lake Park. Since this is a custom loop, you can choose your starting point based on convenience.

The best time to cycle this route is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant for cycling, and all park amenities and trail services are usually fully operational. Fall offers beautiful foliage, especially in the more wooded sections of the regional trails.

Yes, many sections of this route are dog-friendly, but leash rules apply. The Como Lake Trail within Como Regional Park allows leashed dogs. Regional trails like the Dakota Rail Regional Trail and the Luce Line State Trail are also generally dog-friendly, requiring dogs to be on a leash. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and that you clean up after them.

Generally, no specific permits are required for cycling on the public trails and roads that make up this route. However, if you plan to park your vehicle within a Minnesota State Park or State Trail parking area (which some sections of the Luce Line State Trail might be), a Minnesota State Parks vehicle permit may be required. Check local regulations for specific parking areas.

The terrain is quite varied. The Como Lake loop is primarily paved (asphalt, boardwalk, concrete) and largely flat, though it does feature some significant hills. The regional trails near Long Lake Park, such as the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, are mostly paved (concrete and asphalt) and follow former railroad beds, resulting in a generally flat grade with gentle elevation changes. The Luce Line State Trail, which could also be used, has varied surfaces including crushed limestone, pavement, and gravel in different sections. Connecting the two areas will involve urban and suburban roads, which are typically paved.

Yes, this custom route utilizes and connects with several other well-known paths. Near Como Lake, it incorporates sections of the Saint Paul Grand Round and the Lake Como Bicycle Path. As you head west, you'll likely use parts of the Northeast Diagonal Trail, Fairview Ave Bikeway, and potentially the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway in Minneapolis/St. Paul. Closer to Long Lake Park, the route can connect to major regional trails like the Dakota Rail Regional Trail and the Luce Line State Trail.

Yes, both the Como Lake area and the communities along the regional trails near Long Lake offer various options for food and refreshments. Near Como Lake, you'll find amenities within Como Regional Park and in the surrounding St. Paul neighborhoods. Along the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, which passes near Long Lake Park, you'll go through charming towns like Wayzata, Orono, and Mound, which have cafes, restaurants, and shops.

For this touring bicycle route, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, snacks, a repair kit for your bike (including a spare tube and pump), and appropriate clothing for the weather. Given the length and custom nature of the route, a fully charged phone with GPS capabilities is highly recommended for navigation. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a helmet are also essential for safety and comfort.

The estimated cycling duration for this 35.5 km (22 mile) route is approximately 2 hours and 2 minutes. This duration can vary based on your cycling speed, the number of stops you make, and the specific path you choose to connect the two lake areas. It's a moderate ride, so plan accordingly for breaks and potential navigation time.