The best running trails around Minnetonka
4.5
(8)
1,469
runners
196
runs
Jogging around Minnetonka offers access to a landscape rich in natural features, including over 20% wetlands and lakes. The region is characterized by its extensive trail networks that often weave through diverse ecosystems like woodlands, prairies, and marshes. Key natural attractions such as Lake Minnetonka and Minnehaha Creek provide scenic backdrops for running, with trails featuring a mix of paved and dirt paths. This environment provides varied terrain suitable for different jogging preferences.
Best jogging routes around Minnetonka
- The most popular jogging route is Minnetonka Loop Trail, a 2.4 miles (3.8 km) trail that takes 25 minutes to complete. This easy route offers scenic views of Minnehaha Creek and its surrounding woodlands.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Running loop from Minnetonka Hs, an easy 2.9 miles (4.7 km) path. This route meanders through local neighborhoods and green spaces, providing a pleasant urban jogging experience.
- Local runners also love the Running loop from Tonkawood Rd, a 9.0 miles (14.5 km) trail leading through diverse landscapes including woodlands and open areas, often completed in about 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Jogging around Minnetonka is defined by its extensive trail networks, picturesque Lake Minnetonka views, and tranquil Minnehaha Creek paths. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to various ability levels.
- The routes in Minnetonka are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 1600 runners have used komoot to explore Minnetonka's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
1
runners
3.80km
00:25
20m
20m
This easy 2.4-mile (3.8 km) jogging loop in Big Willow Park offers scenic views of Minnehaha Creek and woodlands.
19
runners
4.72km
00:29
30m
30m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
19
runners
14.6km
01:31
70m
70m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
runners
8.53km
00:53
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
runners
18.5km
01:55
60m
60m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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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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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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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The Dakota Rail Regional Trail stretches 28.1 miles from Wayzata to Lester Prairie, Minnesota, along the former Hutchinson Spur of the Great Northern Railway. This paved trail is popular with bikers, skaters, and hikers, offering a look at lakes, wetlands, woodlands, and farmlands. Starting in Wayzata, you can park at the trailhead on Grove Lane and grab a bite or fill up water downtown. The Carver County section extends an additional 12.5 miles west of St. Bonifacius to Mayer. Maps along the trail show your location, restrooms, and nearby services, with parking available at several locations.
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This portion of the Dakota Rail Regional Trail near Minnetonka Beach offers scenic views along the shores of Lake Minnetonka. This section of the 29-mile paved trail is popular due to its proximity to the water; you get nearly continuous lake vistas and pass by buildings and attractions that reflect the area’s history as a 19th-century resort destination. The trail is open for walking, running, and cycling, with easy access to parking and facilities along its route.
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This spot along the Dakota Rail Regional Trail offers views of Crystal Bay and Lake Minnetonka. It can be an awesome spot for a sunset.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Minnetonka?
Minnetonka offers a wide selection of running routes, with over 160 options available for exploration. These routes cater to various fitness levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult trails.
Are there easy or beginner-friendly jogging routes in Minnetonka?
Yes, Minnetonka has a good selection of easy routes, with 24 trails specifically rated as easy. A great option for beginners is the Minnetonka Loop Trail, an easy 2.4-mile (3.8 km) path that offers scenic views along Minnehaha Creek.
What are some scenic running routes in Minnetonka?
Minnetonka is known for its picturesque landscapes. The Minnetonka Loop Trail provides beautiful views of Minnehaha Creek. For stunning lake vistas, consider routes that traverse the Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail, which offers scenic views of Lake Minnetonka itself. Many trails also wind through diverse ecosystems like wetlands, woodlands, and prairies.
Are there any long-distance running trails in Minnetonka?
For those looking for longer runs, Minnetonka offers several options. The Running loop from Tonkawood Rd is a moderate 9.0-mile (14.5 km) trail that takes you through varied landscapes. Additionally, the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, a 28.1-mile paved trail, provides extensive mileage with views of lakes, wetlands, and farmlands.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see while running in Minnetonka?
Minnetonka's natural environment is rich with over 20% wetlands and lakes. You'll encounter tranquil, tree-lined paths along Minnehaha Creek, picturesque views of Lake Minnetonka, and trails weaving through diverse ecosystems including marshes, woodlands, and prairies in parks like Purgatory Park and Lone Lake Park.
Are there any circular running routes in Minnetonka?
Yes, many of Minnetonka's trails are designed as loops, offering convenient circular routes. The Running loop from Minnetonka Hs is an easy 2.9-mile (4.7 km) circular path through neighborhoods and green spaces. Purgatory Park also features a 1.2-mile loop showcasing wetlands, woodlands, and prairies.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Minnetonka?
The running routes in Minnetonka are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 10 reviews. Runners often praise the extensive trail networks, the picturesque views of Lake Minnetonka, and the tranquil paths along Minnehaha Creek, highlighting the varied terrain and natural beauty.
Are there any family-friendly jogging routes in Minnetonka?
Many of Minnetonka's parks and trails are suitable for families. The easy-rated trails, such as the Minnetonka Loop Trail, are generally flat and well-maintained, making them ideal for families. Parks like Lake Minnetonka Regional Park also offer amenities like swimming beaches and play areas, perfect for a family outing.
Are there any points of interest or landmarks to see along the running trails?
Yes, Minnetonka's trails often pass by or are near several natural attractions. You can find highlights like Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary, Quaking Bog, and Old Tree in Aquila Park. Many routes also offer views of various lakes, including West Medicine Lake Park Beach and Cedar Lake.
What are the trail surfaces like in Minnetonka?
Minnetonka's extensive trail system features a variety of surfaces. You'll find a mix of paved and dirt paths, with many trails consisting of compacted crushed limestone or asphalt. This variety caters to different running preferences and provides diverse terrain for your workouts.
Are there any running routes that offer views of Lake Minnetonka?
Absolutely. The Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail is an excellent choice for scenic views of the lake as it connects various communities. Additionally, the St. Albans Bay Bridge – Excelsior Brewing loop from Deephaven offers great perspectives, including views from the St. Albans Bay bridge, which is specifically designed for trail users.
Are Minnetonka's running trails safe and well-maintained?
Yes, Minnetonka is dedicated to maintaining its trails. The city offers over 100 miles of trails and sidewalks, with a substantial portion maintained year-round. Trails are regularly patrolled by the Minnetonka Police Department and Three Rivers Park District rangers during peak seasons, and community parks are equipped with restrooms and drinking fountains for convenience and safety.
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