The best cycling routes around Wayzata
4.6
(165)
1,380
riders
110
rides
Touring cycling around Wayzata offers routes along the scenic shores of Lake Minnetonka, characterized by diverse environments including wetlands, wooded areas, and open agricultural land. The region features well-maintained trails, many of which follow former railroad grades, providing relatively flat and accessible paths. Cyclists can experience a mix of urban lakeside settings and tranquil natural landscapes. The area's topography is generally gentle, with minimal significant elevation changes, making it suitable for various cycling preferences.
Best touring cycling routes around Wayzata
- The most popular touring cycling route is Dakota Rail Regional Trail – Arcola Trestle Bridge loop from Wayzata, a 26.9 miles (43.3 km) trail that takes 2 hours 28 minutes to complete. This route winds through the bays and peninsulas of Lake Minnetonka, offering lake views.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Bederwood Park – Ox Yoke Inn loop from 12 Av N, a moderate 25.7 miles (41.4 km) path. This route explores varied landscapes around the lake, including wooded sections.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Brownie Lake – Luce Line Trail Wooden Bridge loop from White Birch Rd, a 23.8 miles (38.3 km) trail leading through wooded and open landscapes, often completed in about 2 hours 17 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Wayzata is defined by Lake Minnetonka's shores, wooded areas, and former railroad grades. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy rides to moderate excursions.
- The routes in Wayzata are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 1200 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Wayzata's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
4.7
(11)
65
riders
43.3km
02:29
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
16
riders
37.9km
02:16
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.2
(6)
22
riders
41.4km
02:35
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
63.8km
03:49
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
riders
52.8km
03:09
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Nice little neighborhood bike path, gets a little root bumpy toward the south end.
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I grew up around this lake, nice to come back to visit. It's a bit green.
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There is a lake around in these tall plants somewhere! Neat boardwalks.
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Nice park with lots of woods and snakey bike paths.
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Neat intersection, great beer at the brewery
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Welcome to Hopkins along the Minnesota River Bluffs LRT Regional Trail
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The Wayzata Railroad Depot has a rich and contentious history. The first train arrived in Wayzata in 1867, when the town was considered the "end of the road." The original depot was located about a block east of the current depot. As the railroad expanded westward, more tracks were laid between Lake Minnetonka and Main Street in Wayzata. This decision led to protests from citizens due to issues such as noise, cinders, sparks, and the feeling of being cut off from the lake. Residents demanded that the railroad owner, James J. Hill, relocate the tracks further north, away from the lakeshore. Hill refused, resulting in the town filing a lawsuit. In 1881, the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled that Hill was trespassing on village property. Known for his stubborn and powerful nature, Hill was infuriated. Instead of moving the tracks north, he tore down the existing Wayzata depot and built a new, smaller depot a mile east of town. This action effectively made Wayzata "off the map" for rail service, forcing residents to walk a mile through marshy terrain to catch a train. Hill famously declared that Wayzata residents could "walk a mile for the next twenty years." Eventually, the city of Wayzata reconciled with Hill. As part of this agreement, Hill commissioned the construction of the current magnificent Wayzata Depot in 1906. This new depot was built in a more convenient location, closer to the downtown business district and on the shores of Lake Minnetonka, officially putting Wayzata "back on the map." The tracks were never moved, and trains still operate between the lakeshore and the town of Wayzata.
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Cedar Lake is the centerpiece of a park of the same name. The park has three sandy beaches, a nice picnic area with a grill, a fishing pier, and a great running trail around the lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Wayzata?
Wayzata offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 100 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, ranging from easy rides to more moderate excursions.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Wayzata?
Yes, Wayzata has numerous easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. For example, the St. Albans Bay Bridge – Excelsior Brewing loop from Wayzata is an easy 28.1 km (17.5 miles) path that provides a pleasant ride without significant elevation changes, making it ideal for those new to touring cycling.
What are the typical lengths and durations of touring cycling routes in Wayzata?
The touring cycling routes in Wayzata vary in length and duration. Many popular routes, like the Dakota Rail Regional Trail – Arcola Trestle Bridge loop from Wayzata, are around 43 km (27 miles) and can take approximately 2.5 hours to complete. Longer options, such as the Cottontail on the Trail – Cedar Lake South Beach loop from White Birch Rd, extend to about 64 km (40 miles) and take over 4 hours.
Are there circular touring cycling routes around Wayzata?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Wayzata are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular example is the Brownie Lake – Luce Line Trail Wooden Bridge loop from White Birch Rd, which offers a 38.3 km (23.8 miles) circular journey through varied landscapes.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on touring cycling routes in Wayzata?
Touring cycling routes in Wayzata offer diverse scenery. You'll experience the picturesque shores of Lake Minnetonka, tranquil wooded areas, wetlands, and open agricultural land. Trails often follow former railroad grades, providing relatively flat paths through these varied environments. The fall season is particularly stunning with vibrant foliage.
What are some scenic viewpoints or attractions along the cycling routes?
Many routes offer beautiful views of Lake Minnetonka. You can also explore attractions like the historic St. Albans Bay Bridge, the revitalized Panoway on Wayzata Bay with its Lakewalk boardwalk, and the Arcola Trestle Bridge. The Dakota Rail Regional Trail itself is known for its spectacular lake views.
Where can I find parking for Wayzata bike trails?
Convenient parking is available at several key locations. For trails like the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, you can find parking at Wayzata Beach and Shaver Park. These spots often serve as excellent starting points for your cycling adventures.
What are the typical trail surfaces for touring cycling in Wayzata?
Wayzata's cycling infrastructure includes a mix of surfaces. The Dakota Rail Regional Trail is notably paved, offering a smooth ride. Other trails, such as portions of the Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail, feature a crushed limestone surface, which is generally traversable by most touring bikes. The Luce Line Trail also has a limestone surface for a significant portion.
Is Wayzata suitable for family-friendly touring cycling?
Absolutely. The generally gentle topography and well-maintained trails, including paved sections like the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, make Wayzata an excellent destination for family-friendly touring cycling. Many routes are relatively flat and accessible, allowing cyclists of all ages and skill levels to enjoy the scenic surroundings.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Wayzata?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning lake views, the diverse landscapes that include wooded areas and wetlands, and the well-maintained trails that follow former railroad grades, providing a smooth and enjoyable cycling experience.
Are there any touring cycling routes that pass by cafes or places to eat in Wayzata?
While specific cafes are not listed on routes, Wayzata Bay is a frequent starting point for rides and is known for its amenities. Many routes begin or pass through areas where you can easily access local establishments for refreshments before or after your ride. The Bederwood Park – Ox Yoke Inn loop from 12 Av N explores varied landscapes around the lake, suggesting proximity to developed areas.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Wayzata?
The fall season is particularly recommended for touring cycling in Wayzata, as the trails are transformed with vibrant foliage, offering a spectacular backdrop for your ride. However, the well-maintained trails and scenic lake views make it enjoyable throughout the warmer months as well.
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