The best cycling routes in Hennepin County

Hennepin County offers a diverse range of terrain for touring cyclists. You'll find extensive paved paths winding through woods, wetlands, and farmlands, as well as routes along the Mississippi River and connecting the Chain of Lakes. Many trails are multi-use and suitable for touring bikes, blending urban scenery with natural escapes.

Yes, Hennepin County has many easy routes suitable for families. For instance, the Purgatory Park and Round Lake Loop is an easy 21.9 km path that takes you through pleasant park areas. The county's commitment to developing bikeways ensures comfortable riding for all ages and abilities.

Several routes provide stunning views of the Mississippi River. The Rush Creek and Mississippi River Trail Loop is an easy 27.7 km option that incorporates riverfront sections. The Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway also features segments along the Mississippi, showcasing historic sites like the Stone Arch Bridge.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Hennepin County are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your path. A great example is the Mississippi, Rush Creek & Shingle Creek Trails Loop, a moderate 38.9 km route combining riverfront and creek trails.

Hennepin County's routes pass by numerous attractions. You can cycle past the beautiful Minnehaha Falls, or enjoy the serene waters of Lake Nokomis and Cedar Lake. The Grand Rounds Scenic Byway also takes you through the Chain of Lakes and past historic downtown riverfront sites.

For those seeking longer rides, Hennepin County offers routes that combine multiple trail systems. The Mississippi River and Rush Creek Trail Loop is a moderate 66.7 km route that provides an extended touring experience through diverse landscapes.

The best time for touring cycling in Hennepin County is typically spring, summer, and fall. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural scenery, from blooming flowers to autumn foliage. Many trails are well-maintained, making them enjoyable throughout these months.

Yes, Hennepin County is home to sprawling park reserves with extensive trail networks. The Elm Creek Park Reserve – Valley Trail loop from Osseo is a moderate 35.8 km route that takes you through the county's largest regional park, offering diverse landscapes and wooded paths.

Hennepin County has a strong commitment to bikeway access. Many trailheads and park reserves offer dedicated parking facilities. For public transport, certain urban segments of the trail network, particularly within Minneapolis and Saint Paul, are accessible via bus routes. You can find more information on biking infrastructure at hennepincounty.gov.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 800 reviews. Reviewers often praise the extensive and well-maintained trail networks, the beautiful blend of urban and natural scenery, and the variety of routes that cater to different skill levels, from serene lake loops to challenging river trails.

Absolutely. The Chain of Lakes Regional Park in Minneapolis is a prime example, featuring 15 miles of lakeside trails connecting Brownie Lake, Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska, and Lake Harriet. You can experience a taste of this on routes like the Cottontail on the Trail – Lyndale Park Rose Garden loop from Nokomis, which passes by Lake Nokomis.

While many routes are relatively flat, some offer more varied elevation changes for a moderate challenge. The Nine Mile Creek and Bloomington Ferry Trail Loop, for instance, is a moderate 38.7 km route with over 230 meters of elevation gain, leading through diverse landscapes including creek areas.

Hennepin County excels at blending urban and natural cycling experiences. The Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway is a prime example, taking you through city parks, along the Mississippi River, and past downtown Minneapolis landmarks. Another route, the Martin Olav Sabo Bridge – Cottontail on the Trail loop from Christian Park, offers a moderate 39.1 km ride that showcases both urban infrastructure and green spaces.