4.9
(8811)
13,672
hikers
Crow-Hassan Perimeter Loop
02:37
10.1km
50m
Hiking
The Crow-Hassan Perimeter Loop offers a delightful moderate hike through a unique blend of woodlands and expansive restored prairies, characterized by gentle rolling hills. This 6.3-mile (10.1 km) route, with a modest 176 feet (54 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 36 minutes to complete. You'll experience a mix of dirt, gravel, and sandy terrain, with the vibrant prairie scenery of Crow-Hassan Park Reserve providing a beautiful backdrop that changes with the seasons.
When you plan your visit, you'll find convenient parking, restrooms, and a drinking fountain available at the trailhead. The trails are multi-use, so you might share the path with horseback riders or trail runners. While the system is extensive, navigation can sometimes be tricky as loops aren't numbered, so it's a good idea to bring a map or use a navigation app to stay on track. Dogs are welcome on most trails, making it a great option for a family outing with your furry friend.
This trail is particularly notable for its significant role in native prairie restoration, being the first park land in the Three Rivers Park District dedicated to this purpose over 50 years ago. Today, it boasts one of Minnesota's most diverse restored prairies, home to nearly 100 different species of wildflowers. Keep your eyes peeled for abundant wildlife, including deer, coyote, rabbits, owls, ducks, fox, trumpeter swans, hawks, and even bald eagles, making it a fantastic spot for nature observation.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
94 m
Crow-Hassan Park Reserve
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
1.32 km
South Twin Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
10.1 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
6.09 km
4.00 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
6.74 km
3.35 km
< 100 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 9 July
29°C
17°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 4.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park to access the Crow-Hassan Perimeter Loop?
The Crow-Hassan Perimeter Loop is located within Crow-Hassan Park Reserve. Parking is available at designated trailheads within the park. It's advisable to check the Three Rivers Park District website for specific parking lot locations and directions.
Are there any fees or permits required to access Crow-Hassan Park Reserve?
Yes, Crow-Hassan Park Reserve is part of the Three Rivers Park District, which typically requires a vehicle permit for entry. You can purchase daily or annual permits at the park entrance or online through the Three Rivers Park District website.
Is the Crow-Hassan Perimeter Loop dog-friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome on most trails within Crow-Hassan Park Reserve, including the Perimeter Loop, provided they are kept on a leash. The park also offers an off-leash dog area for your furry companion.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The trail offers different experiences throughout the year. Late summer is particularly vibrant when native wildflowers are in bloom and prairie grasses begin to show autumnal tints. Winter hiking is also possible on plowed or minimum-maintenance routes, offering a serene experience. Spring and early summer are great for birdwatching.
What is the terrain like on the Crow-Hassan Perimeter Loop?
Hikers can expect a natural-surface trail composed of dirt, gravel, and sand. Some sections may have loose sandy areas, which can require a bit more effort. The route features gentle rolling hills, winding through both open restored prairies and forests of mostly hardwoods.
What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect to see?
The loop offers a diverse landscape, including expansive restored prairies with nearly 100 species of native wildflowers, and wooded areas. The Crow River borders the park's northern and western sides. You might spot wildlife such as deer, coyotes, rabbits, owls, and various bird species like ducks.
How easy is it to navigate the Crow-Hassan Perimeter Loop?
The trail system can be a bit tricky to navigate, as sections are numbered rather than clearly marked loops, and trail markers may not always align with map numbers. It is highly advisable to carry a phone with a GPS app, such as komoot, to help you stay on track.
Can I bike on the Crow-Hassan Perimeter Loop?
No, biking is not permitted on the natural surface trails of the Crow-Hassan Perimeter Loop. The trails are multi-use, shared primarily with horseback riders and hikers.
Are there any specific points of interest along the route?
Yes, the loop takes you through the beautiful Crow-Hassan Park Reserve, known for its extensive native prairie restoration. You'll also pass by South Twin Lake, offering scenic views.
Is this trail suitable for beginners or families?
The Crow-Hassan Perimeter Loop is generally considered to be of easy to moderate difficulty. While there are no major challenging sections, the potentially loose sandy parts of the trail might require a bit more effort. It's a good option for those looking for a longer, relatively flat hike with varied scenery.
What makes Crow-Hassan Park Reserve unique?
Crow-Hassan Park Reserve is particularly notable for being one of the first parklands in the Three Rivers Park District set aside for native prairie restoration, which began over 50 years ago. It maintains a rustic, less developed feel, focusing on preserving its natural context and boasts over 800 acres of restored prairies, recognized as one of Minnesota's most diverse.
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free