The best walks and hikes around Maplewood
4.7
(47)
860
hikers
107
hikes
Hiking around Maplewood offers diverse natural landscapes characterized by hilly woodlands and numerous lakes. The region features remnants of oak savannas and extensive wetlands, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. These landscapes were shaped by glacial activity, leading to a mix of forests, prairies, and water bodies.
Best hiking trails around Maplewood
- The most popular hiking route is Lake Phalen loop — Saint Paul, a 3.7 miles (6.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 31 minutes to complete. This…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
8.31km
02:09
50m
50m
Explore the varied landscapes of Carver Lake Park on this moderate 5.2-mile (8.3 km) hiking loop. You will encounter classic Minnesota scenery, moving from shaded forests to open fields and…
2.15km
00:33
20m
10m
Embark on an easy hike along the Battle Creek Dog Park Loop, a 1.3 miles (2.2 km) route with a gentle 56 feet (17 metres) of elevation gain. This pleasant…
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4.4
(5)
47
hikers
6.00km
01:31
20m
10m
This easy 3.7-mile (6.0 km) hike around Lake Phalen offers continuous water views and a relaxing outdoor experience. You will gain a gentle 50 feet (15 metres) in elevation, taking…
2
hikers
3.84km
01:03
60m
60m
Embark on an easy hike along the Battle Creek Trail, a refreshing escape within Battle Creek Regional Park. This well-maintained path offers a gentle journey, covering 2.4 miles (3.8 km)…
2
hikers
3.02km
00:47
10m
10m
This easy 1.9-mile loop around Beaver Lake in Saint Paul offers serene water views, birdwatching, and peaceful woodland paths.
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Tips from the Community
This is a pretty big park that has lots of features, mountain bike trails, paved trails, ballfields, playgrounds, goes for blocks.
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Lake Phalen drains into the Mississippi River via Phalen Creek, and it is the centerpiece of Phalen Regional Park. The lake is popular with all sorts of water sports enthusiasts and one of the highlights is the annual Dragon Boat Festival which takes place each July.
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Beaver Lake sits in the park of the same name in eastern Saint Paul. The area hosts a walking trail that encircles the lake and several other amenities such as picnic shelters, a playground, fishing piers, and more.
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The Battle Creek Winthrop Recreation Area is a section of the bigger Battle Creek Regional Park. In comparison to the other sections, the area doesn't include any paved trails and follows grassy or gravel trails instead.
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Beaver Lake sits in the park of the same name in eastern Saint Paul. The area hosts a walking trail that encircles the lake and several other amenities, such as picnic shelters, a playground, fishing piers, and more.
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Battle Creek Regional Park is over 1,800 acres of natural woodlands, grasslands, & wetlands. The miles and miles of trails are perfect for hikers, cyclists, and runners to escape the city and enjoy immersion in nature without needing to travel far from home.
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Lake Phalen drains into the Mississippi River via Phalen Creek and it is the centerpiece of Phalen Regional Park. The lake is popular with all sorts of water sports enthusiasts and one of the highlights is the annual Dragon Boat Festival which take place each July.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Maplewood?
Maplewood offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 70 trails recorded. You'll find options for different skill levels, including 57 easy and 13 moderate routes.
What makes hiking in Maplewood unique?
The region is characterized by its diverse natural landscapes, including hilly woodlands, numerous lakes, and significant wetlands. You can also explore remnants of historic oak savannas, offering a glimpse into the area's ecological past. These features were shaped by glacial activity, creating a rich and varied environment for hikers.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Maplewood?
Yes, Maplewood is very welcoming for beginners, with 57 easy hiking trails available. A good option for a gentle walk is the Beaver Lake County Park loop — Saint Paul, which is just over 3 km long and features minimal elevation changes.
Are there any accessible trails in Maplewood?
The Maplewood Nature Center offers 1.5 miles of leisurely hiking trails, some of which are designed with lime rock surfaces to enhance accessibility. These trails wind through oak woodland and around Green Heron Pond, providing a quiet escape.
Can I expect to see wildlife while hiking in Maplewood?
Absolutely. Maplewood's diverse habitats, including wetlands and woodlands, support a variety of wildlife. The Maplewood Nature Center, particularly around Green Heron Pond, is known for attracting waterfowl, muskrat, mink, and painted turtles. Maplewood State Park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 150 species recorded.
Are there trails that feature lakes or water views?
Many trails in the Maplewood area offer scenic lake views. Maplewood State Park alone boasts over 20 lakes. For a pleasant walk around a significant body of water, consider the Lake Phalen loop — Saint Paul, which provides continuous scenic vistas.
Where can I experience the unique oak savannas or wetlands?
Remnants of oak savannas, with their scattered oaks and prairie grasses, can be found on the east side of Wakefield Lake. For wetlands, the Maplewood Nature Center features trails winding around Green Heron Pond, offering excellent opportunities to observe these crucial habitats and their wildlife.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Maplewood?
Yes, Maplewood offers several family-friendly options. The Maplewood Nature Center has easy, accessible trails perfect for all ages, including a 600-foot floating boardwalk. Many of the 57 easy trails in the region, such as those in Battle Creek Regional Park, are also suitable for families.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions near the hiking trails?
Beyond the trails, you can explore several attractions. Lake Phalen is popular for water sports, and Battle Creek Regional Park offers diverse recreational opportunities. For a different experience, Harriet Island Regional Park provides views of St. Paul and Mississippi River paddleboat tours.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Maplewood?
The trails in Maplewood are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 25 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from hilly woodlands to serene lakes, and the variety of easy-to-moderate routes that cater to different preferences.
Are there any loop hikes available in the Maplewood area?
Yes, loop hikes are common and popular in Maplewood. Besides the well-known Lake Phalen loop, you can explore the Battle Creek Winthrop Recreation Area loop — Battle Creek Regional Park, which offers a pleasant circuit through woodlands and open areas.
What is the best time of year to hike in Maplewood?
Maplewood offers beautiful hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and active wildlife, while autumn showcases stunning fall foliage in the woodlands. Summer is ideal for enjoying the lakes, and winter provides opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in parks like Maplewood State Park.
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