Mississippi River Trail: Minneapolis to Dayton Loop

This loop is approximately 108 kilometers (about 67 miles) long. For a racebike, it typically takes around 4 hours and 17 minutes of active cycling time to complete, depending on your pace and stops.

The Minneapolis to Dayton Loop generally features mostly well-paved surfaces, making it ideal for road bikes. It's part of the broader Mississippi River Trail in the Twin Cities metro area, which combines paved trails, paved shoulders, and shared roadways. While relatively flat overall, you'll encounter a moderate challenge with some varied terrain.

You'll experience diverse scenery as the trail winds through the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. Expect views of the Mississippi River, and you'll pass notable landmarks such as St. Anthony Falls, Minnehaha Falls Regional Park, and Fort Snelling State Park. The route often follows the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway along the river banks.

Yes, the route features several points of interest. You'll ride along the scenic Dayton River Road and sections of the Mississippi River Trail. Within the greater Minneapolis-St. Paul area, you'll also pass St. Anthony Falls, Minnehaha Falls Regional Park, and Fort Snelling State Park.

Yes, this loop is part of the larger U.S. Bicycle Route 45 (USBR 45) and also utilizes sections of U.S. Bicycle Route 45A. You'll also find yourself on parts of the Mississippi River Trail (Minnesota-Alternate), Mississippi River Trail (Minnesota), and the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway.

The best time to cycle this route is generally from spring through fall, when the weather is mild and the scenery is vibrant. Minnesota winters can be harsh, with snow and ice making cycling challenging or impossible on some sections.

Generally, you do not need specific permits or pay entrance fees to cycle the Mississippi River Trail itself. As an urban national park, the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area is largely free to access. However, some specific parks or attractions along the route might have their own fees for parking or entry to certain facilities. It's always a good idea to check local park websites if you plan to stop at specific sites.

This loop is considered a "moderate road ride." While the Twin Cities portion of the MRT is relatively flat with a maximum sustained grade of around 3 percent, its 108-kilometer distance and 340 meters of elevation gain require a good level of fitness. Beginners might find the full loop challenging, but shorter sections could be more manageable.

Many sections of the Mississippi River Trail and associated parks are dog-friendly, typically requiring dogs to be on a leash. However, specific regulations can vary by park or trail segment. Always check local signage for the most current rules regarding pets.

Given it's a loop starting and ending in Minneapolis, you have several access points. Popular starting points often include areas near downtown Minneapolis or parks along the river, such as those within the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. Many city parks and trailheads offer parking, but availability can vary, especially on busy weekends.

Yes, as the route passes through Minneapolis and other developed areas, you'll find numerous options for food, coffee, and accommodation. Minneapolis and St. Paul offer a wide range of cafes, restaurants, and hotels. Even in smaller towns like Dayton, you can typically find places to refuel.