The best walks and hikes around Bloomington
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2,733
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Hiking trails in Bloomington, Minnesota, navigate a landscape shaped by river valleys, lakes, and wetlands. The region is characterized by its relatively flat terrain, with most routes following creekside paths and lakeside loops within parks and wildlife refuges. The extensive network of trails offers accessible options for exploring the area's natural features, including the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge.
Best hiking trails around Bloomington
- The most popular hiking route is Old Cedar Avenue Bridge & Long Meadow Lake loop — Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, a 6.9 mile (11.1 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 50 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores the wetlands and lake shores within the national wildlife refuge.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Nine Mile Creek Trail loop — River Valley Park, an easy 2.7 mile (4.4 km) path. This trail offers a gentle walk along the creek, suitable for all skill levels.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Hyland Lake & Wood Duck Pond loop — Hyland Lake Park Reserve, a 7.5 mile (12.1 km) trail leading through a park reserve, often completed in about 3 hours 10 minutes.
- Hiking around Bloomington is defined by river bottom trails, lakeside paths, and routes through urban parks. The trail network provides a range of easy and moderate options for different ability levels.
- The routes in Bloomington are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 40 reviews. More than 600 hikers have used komoot to explore Bloomington's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
51
hikers
4.19km
01:04
10m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
10.5km
02:45
60m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
hikers
9.62km
02:29
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
4.99km
01:18
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
3.92km
01:00
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Nice park office with ski rentals in the winter. Big playground. A lake that they run a aerator, so it stays open and a bunch of swans stay in the winter.
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I have been out on this deck before in the fall. In the winter you have to be skiing to get to it.
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Paved path, single track mountain bike trails, lots of ways to explore!
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Normandale Lake Park in Bloomington, Minnesota, centers on Normandale Lake and the meandering Nine Mile Creek. The lake, created in the late 1970s from a marsh and floodplain, serves both as a scenic retreat and a vital flood-control basin for the area. On the east side of the lake, a cascading waterfall marks the spot where water flows from the lake back into the original channel of Nine Mile Creek. This creek, stretching approximately 15 miles, continues its journey from the lake to the Minnesota River. Visitors enjoy the park not only for its natural beauty—especially at the waterfall, which is particularly striking during the spring melt—but also for its amenities, including picnic areas, a reservable picnic shelter, seasonal restrooms, and access to water activities like canoeing and fishing.
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The Hyland Lake Park Reserve Visitor Center is the main location for visitors at Hyland Lake Park in Bloomington, Minnesota. Managed by the Three Rivers Park District, the Visitor Center offers access to park activities and services. Next to the Visitor Center, families can enjoy the Hyland Play Area, known as "Chutes and Ladders.”. The center also has restrooms, serves as a warming shelter, and is close to a concession stand for snacks and drinks. Near the Visitor Center is a small 3-hole disc golf practice course, and during the warmer months, canoes and paddle boats are available for rent on the nearby lake.
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West Bush Lake Park, at 9401 W Bush Lake Rd in Bloomington, is a scenic spot for outdoor recreation on the west side of Bush Lake. The park has a public boat launch (6-horsepower limit), making it ideal for canoeing, kayaking, or paddleboarding—rentals are often available. There are picnic tables and grills. Picnic shelters are available for rent. Walking and biking are easy on the park’s tree-lined trails, including a path that connects to other parts of the lake. Visitors can fish for bass and bluegill (subject to special regulations) and play volleyball. Swimming is not recommended on the west side of Bush Lake. There is better swimming access a mile away on the east side of the lake at Bush Lake Beach.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails in Bloomington, Minnesota?
Yes, there are over 35 hiking routes to explore around Bloomington. The trails primarily navigate the region's river valleys, lakes, and wetlands, offering a good mix of environments for all types of hikers.
What is the hiking terrain like around Bloomington?
The terrain is generally flat, making it very accessible. Most routes follow creekside paths, lakeside loops, and trails within parks and wildlife refuges. You'll encounter a lot of wetlands and river bottom trails, especially within the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge.
Are there any difficult hikes in the area?
No, the trails around Bloomington are rated as either easy or moderate. The landscape doesn't have significant elevation changes, so you won't find any strenuous mountain climbs. The challenge comes from longer distances rather than steep ascents.
Can I find easy, family-friendly trails near Bloomington?
Absolutely. The majority of trails in the area are rated as easy, perfect for families and beginners. A great option is the Nine Mile Creek Trail loop — River Valley Park, which is a gentle walk along the creek that's suitable for all skill levels.
Are there any circular walks available?
Yes, many of the popular trails are loops, allowing you to start and end in the same place without backtracking. For a scenic circular route through a park reserve, consider the Hyland Lake & Wood Duck Pond loop.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Bloomington?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of over 4 stars. Hikers often praise the serene wetlands, the abundance of wildlife in the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, and the well-maintained, accessible paths.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails?
Many parks and trails in the Bloomington area are dog-friendly, but policies can vary. The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, home to many popular trails, generally requires dogs to be on a leash. Always check the specific regulations for the park or refuge you plan to visit before you go.
Where can I go for a longer hike?
If you're looking for a longer, more immersive hike, the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge & Long Meadow Lake loop is a great choice. It's a nearly 7-mile trail that explores the beautiful wetlands and lake shores within the national wildlife refuge.
What are some good spots for wildlife and birdwatching?
The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is the premier destination for wildlife viewing. Trails like the River Bottoms loop take you through prime habitats for birdwatching and spotting other local fauna in the wetlands and forests.
Are there paved walking trails in Bloomington?
Yes, you can find paved trails within the city's park system. These are great for an easy walk, run, or for those who need a more accessible surface. The Moir Park & Central Park loop is a good example of a shorter, paved route that connects two of the city's parks.
Is there free parking at most trailheads?
Parking availability and fees depend on the specific park or refuge. Many local city parks offer free parking. For trails within the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge or regional park reserves, it's best to check their official websites for the most current information on parking and any potential entrance fees.
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