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6
Where to Walk, Bike, and Explore This Spring Around the Twin Cities
Now that spring has arrived, we're all itching to spend more time outside. Walking, cycling, and hiking are all great ways to get some exercise while enjoying the fresh air, birds, and blossoms. Luckily, there are plenty of well-maintained trails around the Twin Cities. Here are a few trails we suggest visiting when you need a break from looking at homes for sale in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Best Trails Near Minneapolis and St. Paul
Chain of Lakes Trail
Address: West Harriet Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55410
The Chain of Lakes Trail is accessible from a parking area on West Lake Harriet Parkway. It's a wide, paved trail that welcomes both cyclists and walkers. This would be a great one to walk with kids in a stroller or wagon! The entire loop is about 8.9 miles, with plenty of benches and picnic tables along the way if you need a break.
The Chain of Lakes Trail passes by several lakes, including Lake Harriet and Lake of the Isles. You're sure to see lots of waterbirds, like ducks and herons, this time of year.
Cedar Lake Regional Trail
Address: Cedar Lake Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55410
Pick up the Cedar Lake Regional Trail in downtown Minneapolis, and follow it over creeks and through woods to reach the suburbs. This 4.5-mile trail is fully paved and fairly well-traveled. Dogs are welcome, but must be leashed.
Along the way, this trail connects with a few others, including:
- Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail
- MN River Bluffs Regional Trail
- Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail
Transitions are well marked, so you shouldn't have to worry about getting lost.
Theodore Wirth Regional Park Trails – Minneapolis, MN
Address: 1301 Theodore Wirth Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55422
One of the largest parks in the Minneapolis park system, Theodore Wirth Regional Park offers a wide variety of trails perfect for walking, biking, and exploring nature. With miles of paved and unpaved paths, you can choose a short, scenic stroll or a longer outing through wooded areas and open green space.
The park is home to Wirth Lake and connects to the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway, making it easy to extend your adventure. Keep an eye out for local wildlife along the way and enjoy peaceful views that feel far removed from the city, yet are just minutes from downtown Minneapolis.
Battle Creek Regional Park Trails
Address: 75 Winthrop St. S., St. Paul, MN 55119
If you're in the mood for a shorter walk, consider visiting Battle Creek Regional Park. There are multiple short, paved trails that loop through the park. You can string some together for a 2- or 3-mile walk, or just take a relaxing, 10-minute stroll.
Battle Creek Regional Park also has an off-leash dog area, restrooms, a playground, and several pavilions. It would be a great place fora picnic, then to spend the afternoon walking and enjoying nature.
Elm Creek Park Reserve Trails
Address: 12400 James Deane Parkway, Maple Grove, MN 55369
If you're in the area looking at Maple Grove homes for sale, consider stopping by the Elm Creek Park Reserve for a walk. There are several trails that wind through the reserve, including the Medicine Lake Regional Trail and the Rush Creek Regional Trail. The former is a paved, 20-mile trail that passes by Fish Lake. The latter follows Rush Creek to Mississippi Gateway Park.
Elm Creek Park Reserve is home to eagles, deer, bluebirds, and loons. If you sit quietly near the water, you may even see a beaver. There are restrooms and drinking fountains on-site.
Explore the Twin Cities Even More
We hope you get a chance to visit some of these gorgeous, local trails this spring. Call today if you're still looking for a new place to call home; we're happy to help.
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