Best Twin Cities Hiking Trails: Water Views, Woodlands, and Hidden Gems
The Twin Cities have miles of beautiful trails to explore, and the best part is—you don’t even have to leave the metro to find them! Whether you’re looking for waterfalls, river views, or peaceful lakeside paths, there’s a perfect trail for you.
Here are a few of our favorites. We especially love Minnehaha Falls, Como Lake, and Lake Harriet for their relaxing water vibes!
1. Minnehaha Falls Trail (Minneapolis)
Distance: ~2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights:
Starts at the stunning Minnehaha Falls (53 feet tall)
Follows Minnehaha Creek down to the Mississippi River
Paved and dirt paths with scenic views of limestone bluffs and riverbanks
2. Mississippi River Gorge Trail (Minneapolis)
Distance: ~7 miles out and back
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights:
Follows the river with dramatic views of the Mississippi River Gorge
Forested trails, sandstone cliffs, and river overlooks
Connects to the West River Parkway and East River Parkway
3. Fort Snelling State Park Trail (St. Paul)
Distance: ~3-5 miles, depending on the loop
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights:
Trail runs along the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers
Passes through wetlands, woods, and open prairies
Great for wildlife spotting—deer, eagles, and wild turkeys
4. Hidden Falls Regional Park Trail (St. Paul)
Distance: ~1.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights:
Short, peaceful hike to a hidden waterfall
Shaded, wooded paths along the Mississippi River
Ideal for a quick escape into nature
5. Theodore Wirth Park Trails (Minneapolis)
Distance: Up to 10 miles of interconnected trails
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights:
Largest park in Minneapolis with lakes, prairies, and woodlands
Mix of paved and dirt trails
Great in all seasons—hiking in summer, cross-country skiing in winter
6. Crosby Farm Regional Park Trail (St. Paul)
Distance: ~6.7 miles of trails
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights:
Follows the Mississippi River through woods and wetlands
Peaceful and shaded with lots of wildlife (especially birds)
Connects to the Mississippi River Gorge Trail
7. Lake Harriet Loop (Minneapolis)
Distance: ~2.75 miles loop
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights:
Paved trail around Lake Harriet
Beautiful lake views, sailboats, and gardens
Stop at the bandshell for a concert or a snack
8. Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary (St. Paul)
Distance: ~3 miles of trails
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights:
Historic limestone caves and remnants of old rail lines
Overlooks the Mississippi River
Great for birdwatching and peaceful nature escapes
9. Como Lake Loop (St. Paul)
Distance: ~1.67 miles loop
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights:
Scenic paved trail circling Como Lake
Views of the lake, sailboats, and wildlife
Nearby attractions include Como Park Zoo and Conservatory
10. Indian Mounds Regional Park Trail (St. Paul)
Distance: ~2.5 miles of trails
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights:
Overlooks the Mississippi River with panoramic views
Features Native American burial mounds
Great for history buffs and peaceful river views
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a relaxing stroll, the Twin Cities have no shortage of scenic trails to explore. Which one will you try first?
