The best walks and hikes around Minnetonka
4.6
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2,126
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Hikes around Minnetonka navigate a landscape of lakes, woodlands, and preserved wetlands. The area's trail system consists of mostly paved or crushed limestone paths that connect numerous city parks and trails. These routes often follow creek corridors, like Minnehaha Creek, and feature minimal elevation change, making them accessible for many ability levels.
Best hiking trails around Minnetonka
- The most popular hiking route is Lone Lake Park loop — Minnetonka, Minnesota, a 3.7 mile (6.0 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 35 minutes to complete. This route circles the park's namesake lake and passes through restored prairie and woodland areas.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Minnetonka Loop Trail — Meadow Park, an easy 3.5 mile (5.6 km) path. The trail is primarily paved, making it a reliable option for a straightforward walk.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Minnetonka Loop Trail — Big Willow Park, a 2.1 mile (3.4 km) trail leading through a community preserve along Minnehaha Creek, often completed in about 50 minutes.
- Hiking around Minnetonka is defined by lakeside paths, woodland trails, and routes through wetlands and prairies. The network of Minnetonka parks and trails provides options for both short, easy hikes and longer connected routes.
- The routes in Minnetonka are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 60 reviews. More than 900 hikers have used komoot to explore Minnetonka's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.9
(8)
7
hikers
7.55km
01:59
60m
60m
Embark on an easy hiking adventure connecting two scenic parks on the Bryant Lake to Lone Lake Trail. This route spans 4.7 miles (7.6 km), featuring a gentle elevation gain of 195 feet (60 metres), and typically takes around 1 hour and 58 minutes to complete. You will experience a diverse landscape, winding through grassy fields, shady woodlands, and wetlands, with picturesque views of Lone Lake from the Lone Lake Pier and unique passages under Highway 62 via tunnels. Expect a mix of mostly gravel and dirt paths, including some pleasant hilly sections within Lone Lake Park that offer a good workout.
Planning your visit to the Bryant Lake to Lone Lake Trail is straightforward and convenient. There are no permits or fees required to access this route, making it an accessible option for everyone. You will find free parking available at both Bryant Lake Regional Park and Lone Lake Park, providing flexible starting points. Both parks are open year-round, ensuring you can enjoy this trail in any season, and dogs are welcome to join you on your hike.
This trail stands out for its unique ability to link two distinct natural areas, offering a varied experience that feels far removed from urban life. The journey provides an excellent opportunity for an exercise hike, combining natural beauty with gentle physical activity. It is a notable regional option for those seeking a tranquil escape and a chance to explore diverse ecosystems without venturing too far from convenient amenities.
588m
00:09
0m
0m
An easy 0.4-mile (0.6 km) hike along Minnehaha Creek, featuring the iconic Minnehaha Falls and scenic river views.
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4.8
(4)
9
hikers
5.58km
01:25
20m
20m
Explore the easy 3.5-mile Minnetonka Loop Trail in Meadow Park, winding through lakes, woodlands, and wetlands.
5.0
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7
hikers
3.42km
00:52
10m
10m
An easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) hike through Big Willow Park, featuring views of Minnehaha Creek and a charming bridge.
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5.99km
01:35
60m
50m
Hike the easy 3.7-mile Lone Lake Mountain Bike Trail through Minnetonka's Big Woods, gaining 189 feet in 1 hour 35 minutes.
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Tips from the Community
Crossing the Minnehaha Creek, you'll be treated to scenic views from the accompanying bridge. A lovely spot to take a breather during your run.
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Big Willow Park in Minnetonka offers a peaceful, tree-lined trail perfect for a run. The mix of paved and dirt paths winds along Minnehaha Creek, with gentle hills and plenty of shade to keep things interesting. It’s a great spot for a quiet, scenic workout.
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Big Willow Park spans over 95 acres, and features trails that wind through wooded areas and along Minnehaha Creek, making it a popular spot for hiking, walking, and birdwatching. Park amenities include open fields, picnic areas, and trails that connect to Minnetonka’s larger trail system, offering access to nearby parks and neighborhoods.
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The Minnetonka Loop Trail at Meadow Park is a 3.4-mile out-and-back. The park features amenities like picnic tables, public restrooms, and dog-friendly spaces. Meadow Park also includes an outdoor ice rink for hockey and skating, biking trails, and a playscape, set amidst over 100 natural acres that balance recreation and preservation.
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This is a very photogenic bridge over Minnehaha Creek in Big Willow Park. It offers excellent wildlife viewing up and down the creek.
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Meadow Park Trails winds through wetland and woodland for 2.14 miles, offering scenery and wildlife viewing. There is ample parking at the trailhead but no public toilet facilities.
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This is a scenic bridge that is a perfect subject for photos. The highlight will also help you route your tour through Big Willow Park. I have taken so many photos of this bridge in all seasons and all angles that I feel little bit like van Gogh painting The Langlois Bridge at Arles, a copy of which hung in my boyhood home.
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This 146-acre park boasts stunning views of the lake, as well as miles of trails winding through lush forests. It also features a variety of sports fields catering to various sports enthusiasts. The trail is used by mountain bikers, so hikers should be aware that they'll be sharing the trail with bikers as they go.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any dog-friendly hiking trails in Minnetonka?
Yes, many parks in Minnetonka welcome leashed dogs. Purgatory Park is a popular choice with its mix of open fields and wooded paths. Always check local signage for specific park regulations regarding pets before you start your hike.
What are some good, easy hikes for beginners in the area?
Minnetonka is great for beginners as most trails are flat and well-maintained. A good starting point is the Minnetonka Loop Trail — Meadow Park. It's a primarily paved path, making for a straightforward and enjoyable walk through a pleasant park setting.
Where can I find hikes with good lake views?
For views of the water, head to Lone Lake Park. It features trails that offer scenic overlooks of Lone Lake and the surrounding wetlands. The park's hilly terrain, a remnant of its past as a ski area, provides elevated vantage points.
Are there any circular walks or loop trails available?
Yes, there are several excellent loop trails. For a peaceful walk along a waterway, the Minnetonka Loop Trail — Big Willow Park follows the scenic Minnehaha Creek corridor. It's a relatively short loop, perfect for a quick escape into nature.
What are the trail surfaces like in Minnetonka?
Most trails in the Minnetonka area are surfaced with either asphalt or crushed limestone, making them accessible in various weather conditions. Some parks, like Purgatory Park, also offer unpaved natural-surface paths through wooded sections for a more rustic feel.
Can I go hiking in Minnetonka during the winter?
Absolutely. Many of the paved trails are cleared for winter walking. For a more traditional winter experience, some parks leave their unpaved trails snow-covered, making them ideal for snowshoeing. Always dress in layers and wear appropriate footwear for icy conditions.
What are some good options for a family-friendly hike?
For a very short and accessible walk that's great for all ages, consider the Minnehaha Creek Headwaters Boardwalk. This easy stroll on a boardwalk is a unique way to see the start of the iconic creek and explore the surrounding wetlands.
Where can I find parking for the trails?
Most major parks in Minnetonka, such as Purgatory Park, Lone Lake Park, and Big Willow Park, have dedicated parking lots near the trailheads. For regional trails like the Lake Minnetonka LRT, you can find access points with parking in the communities it passes through.
Are the trails suitable for biking as well as hiking?
Yes, the extensive network of paved and crushed limestone trails, including the Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail and the Minnetonka Loop Trail, are multi-use and very popular with cyclists. The relatively flat terrain makes for pleasant riding.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Minnetonka?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the variety of scenery from lakes to woodlands, and how easy it is to access nature within the metropolitan area.
What are some of the most popular parks for hiking in Minnetonka?
Several parks are local favorites for hiking, each offering a unique experience.
Purgatory Park: The city's largest park, known for its diverse landscape of wetlands, woods, and prairies along Purgatory Creek.
Lone Lake Park: A top choice for its scenic lake views and rolling hills, providing a bit more of a workout.
Big Willow Park: Offers a tranquil setting with trails that meander alongside the beautiful Minnehaha Creek.
Are there any very short, easy walks available?
Yes, if you're looking for a quick and simple outing, the Victoria-Evergreen Park loop is a great option. At just over one kilometer, it's a very manageable walk through a neighborhood park.
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