The best walks and hikes around Brooklyn Center
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Hiking trails near Brooklyn Center MN are primarily located within its extensive system of parks and nature preserves. The landscape is defined by lakeside paths, wetlands, and trails following waterways like Shingle Creek and the Mississippi River. Most routes are on paved or well-maintained surfaces with minimal elevation change, making them accessible for various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Brooklyn Center
- The most popular hiking route is Palmer Lake Park loop via Shingle Creek Regional Trail — Brooklyn Center, a 5.8 mile (9.4 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 20 minutes to complete. This moderate route combines sections of the Shingle Creek Regional Trail with a loop around the Palmer Lake nature area.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Shingle Creek Trail — Lions Park, an easy 4.0 mile (6.5 km) path. The trail follows the creek through local green spaces on a paved surface.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Palmer Lake Park Trail loop from Brooklyn Park, a 2.9 mile (4.7 km) trail leading through the park's natural habitat, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Hiking around Brooklyn Center is defined by paved park paths, lakeside loops, and trails through wetlands. The network of routes offers options suitable for different ability levels, from short walks to longer hikes connecting multiple parks.
- The routes in Brooklyn Center are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 20 reviews. More than 600 hikers have used komoot to explore Brooklyn Center's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
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Embark on an easy hike along the North Mississippi Park Loop, a route that offers refreshing views of the Mississippi River. This gentle trail spans 2.3 miles (3.8 km) and involves a minimal elevation gain of just 49 feet (15 metres), making it perfect for a leisurely outing. You can expect to complete the loop in about 57 minutes, winding through a mix of restored native prairies, woodlands, and wetlands. Look out for towering cypress trees that provide shade, and in warmer months, the prairie flowers add a splash of color to your journey.
Planning your visit to North Mississippi Regional Park is straightforward, with parking typically available on site. The trails are generally flat to gently rolling and feature paved surfaces, making them accessible and suitable for a wide range of users. This loop is an excellent choice for a quick escape into nature, and its connection to a wider network of trails means you can easily extend your adventure if you wish. Consider visiting during the summer to enjoy the vibrant prairie blooms.
Beyond the scenic path, the North Mississippi Park Loop offers a chance to observe local wildlife, including Great Blue Herons, and you might even spot an active bald eagle nest across the river. The Carl W. Kroening Nature Center is also located within the park, providing an opportunity to delve deeper into the area's natural environment and learn about its ecosystems. This trail provides a unique blend of urban accessibility and natural beauty, highlighting the ecological diversity of the Mississippi River corridor.
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Hike the easy 3.9-mile Islands of Peace Loop for accessible trails, mature forests, and scenic Mississippi River views.
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Hike the moderate 5.8-mile Palmer Lake and Shingle Creek Trail Loop in Brooklyn Park, offering natural scenery and connecting two water bodi
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Explore the easy 3.5-mile Centennial Park and Shingle Creek Trail Loop, offering scenic views along Shingle Creek and diverse wildlife.
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Hike the easy, paved Shingle Creek Regional Trail, a 4.1-mile route offering scenic views of Lake Fran and diverse Florida wildlife.
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Tips from the Community
This 200-acre park is the largest in the city, with a multi-use loop trail that runs for several miles. Watch for birds and other wildlife around the lake and marshes!
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This well-maintained, paved trail extends over 8 miles, taking you through parks and wetlands. This section runs from Lions Park to Centennial Park along the creek, offering scenic views of the water, including small cascades that add to its beauty.
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This trail extends over 8 miles and is a well-maintained paved path that takes you through parks and wetlands across most of Brooklyn Center. This section meanders along Shingle Creek, which gives the trail its name.
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North Mississippi Regional Park is a long-reaching park along the Mississippi River. There are bike paths that travel the length of the park and offer great views of the river, bridges, islands, and dense woods. If you hop off your bike and sit by the riverside, you may just encounter some of the park's beaver population or spot some unique birds.
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This park features a paved trail connecting to Palmer Lake Park and circling around Centennial Park. It includes amenities such as picnic areas, a playground, softball fields, soccer fields, and a woodchip trail.
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This park, a 200-acre natural preserve, is the largest in the city. It features a well-maintained paved trail that encircles Palmer Lake, winding through lush trees that provide shade for a portion of your hike. The lake and marshes are home to numerous wildlife species.
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This park offers some beautiful walking and running trails along the Mississippi River — a nice break from bustling city life. There is also a picnic site and wading area a little farther north of here.
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This 8-acre park consists of three islands located in the Mississippi River. While Chase Island is accessible on foot, the other two can be reached by water or enjoyed from a distance. The park earned its name from its founder's quote, "Where Peace Is A Way of Life Every Hour of Every Day for All Those Willing to Share the Experience."
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails in the Brooklyn Center area?
Yes, there are over 70 hiking routes to explore around Brooklyn Center. The area is characterized by its extensive system of parks and nature preserves, offering a wide variety of trails that follow waterways like Shingle Creek and the Mississippi River.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Brooklyn Center?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paved paths and the serene natural scenery found within the city's parks, like the wetlands around Palmer Lake.
Are the hiking trails suitable for beginners or families with children?
Absolutely. The vast majority of trails in the area are rated as easy, with minimal elevation change. A great option for a family outing is the Islands of Peace County Park — Minneapolis walk, which is a gentle route through a scenic park.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Most parks and trails in the Brooklyn Center area, including the popular Palmer Lake Park and Shingle Creek Regional Trail, are dog-friendly. However, dogs are generally required to be on a leash. Always check local signage at the trailhead for specific park rules.
Are there any circular or loop hikes available?
Yes, there are several excellent loop trails. For a shorter walk, the Palmer Lake Park Trail loop from Brooklyn Park is a popular choice that takes you through the park's natural habitat. It's a great way to experience the scenery without having to backtrack.
What are some of the best parks for hiking in Brooklyn Center?
Palmer Lake Park is a local favorite, known for its large nature preserve and wildlife. Mississippi Gateway Regional Park is another top-rated destination, offering spectacular views of the Mississippi River from its trails and observation deck. For a very large park with extensive amenities, Elm Creek Park Reserve is just a short drive away.
Are most of the trails paved?
Yes, Brooklyn Center has a total of 67 miles of paved paths throughout the city. Many of the main routes, such as the Shingle Creek Regional Trail and the paths within Centennial Park, are paved, making them suitable for walking, biking, and accessible for strollers.
Where can I find a longer hike?
For a more substantial hike, consider the Palmer Lake Park loop via Shingle Creek Regional Trail. At nearly 6 miles, it combines two of the area's best trail systems into one longer, moderately challenging route.
Are the trails free to access?
The trails within Brooklyn Center's city parks, like Palmer Lake Park and Centennial Park, are free to access. Some regional parks in the wider area, such as those managed by Three Rivers Park District, may have parking or entry fees, so it's a good idea to check their specific policies before you go.
What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect?
The landscape is dominated by wetlands, lakes, and river corridors. You can expect to hike through marshes and woodlands, especially around Palmer Lake, which is a natural environmental preserve. It's a haven for a variety of bird species and other local wildlife.
Can I get to the trailheads using public transport?
Many of the parks, including Centennial Park and trailheads for the Shingle Creek Regional Trail, are located within residential and commercial areas of Brooklyn Center and are accessible via local bus routes. It's best to check the Metro Transit website for specific route planning to your chosen trailhead.
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