The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Scott County
4.7
(83)
1,010
hikers
38
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Scott County offer diverse landscapes, from river valleys and glacial features to wooded areas and open spaces. The region is characterized by generally gentle elevation changes, making it suitable for various skill levels. Many routes wind through forests, past lakes, and alongside wetlands, providing varied scenery for outdoor exploration.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Scott County
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Minnregs Lake Loop, a 4.0 miles (6.5 km) trail…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
3.27km
00:51
20m
20m
Embark on an easy 2.0-mile (3.3 km) hike through the dense woodlands of Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve. This loop trail offers a rustic wilderness feel as it winds through lush forest,…
10
hikers
6.47km
01:41
40m
40m
Hike the easy 4.0-mile Minnregs Lake Loop in Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve, enjoying restored prairie views and rolling hills.
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3.0
(1)
6
hikers
4.46km
01:09
20m
20m
Hike the easy 2.8-mile Mazomani Trail through diverse ecosystems to the Louisville Swamp Overlook in Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refu
1
hikers
6.19km
01:35
20m
20m
Hike the easy 3.8-mile Lawrence Trail in Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area, gaining 65 feet over 1 hour and 34 minutes.
11.6km
02:56
20m
20m
Hike the moderate Minnesota Valley State Trail for 7.2 miles (11.6 km) through diverse landscapes, including forests and wetlands, with view
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Tips from the Community
Challenging biking, I've only done the beginner and intermediate. I like the beginner loop a lot, out in the prairie, fast packed sand with some small jumps.
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For hiking, biking, and horseback. Don't know why it says cycling is not permitted.
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The oak savanna at Louisville Swamp is one of Minnesota's rarest and most distinctive wildlife habitats, defined by a blend of prairie grasses, wildflowers, and widely spaced Bur Oak trees. This transitional ecosystem supports a remarkable diversity of plant species and provides critical resources for endangered wildlife, including the Red-headed Woodpecker and various bats, birds, and insects. As a fire-dependent system, its integrity is maintained through regular burns and ongoing restoration efforts by refuge staff to prevent encroachment by non-native species and maintain its open character. Alongside the savanna, the Louisville Swamp Unit preserves significant remnants of native tallgrass prairie—once expansive across Minnesota. These prairies boast towering grasses and vivid wildflowers, creating a vibrant environment throughout the summer. Specialized communities like the Dry Sand–Gravel Prairie feature grasses such as big bluestem and Indiangrass. At the same time, the dense grassland structure provides crucial nesting habitat for wildlife, including various waterfowl and ring-necked pheasants.
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Lots of parking and plenty of trails for hiking, biking, hunting, etc.
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Shakopee Memorial Park is a community green space centered around the historic Mill Pond. This pond, which winds through the park, is fed by natural springs that originate at the site of Samuel Pond's mission to the Dakota people, connecting the park to the region's earliest history. At the lower end of Mill Pond, a grist mill once played a vital role in the community. Built and operated by Samuel Pond's sons, Martin and Robert Pond, the mill used water from the pond to power its operations. Today, the park offers a tranquil setting that honors the legacy of the Pond family and the city’s industrial origins.
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Murphy-Hanrehan has miles of singletrack trails suited to riders of all abilities. Most of the trails would be considered easy by experienced riders, and the majority of technical features have ride arounds, so even beginners should be able to complete the loop. A hardtail mountain bike is more than enough to handle the terrain and experience riders could probably handle it on a hybrid or gravel bike.
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One of the trailheads for the state trail. Decent size parking lot, pit toilets, warming house.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Scott County?
Scott County offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails, with over 35 routes specifically curated for families. Most of these, around 25, are rated as easy, making them suitable for various ages and skill levels.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Scott County?
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in Scott County, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from river valleys to wooded areas, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable outings with children.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families in Scott County?
Yes, there are several excellent circular routes perfect for families. For an easy loop, consider the Murphy Hanrehan Park Loop to Henn Parks Road, which is just over 3 km. Another great option is the Minnregs Lake Loop, offering a slightly longer 6.4 km experience around the lake.
What kind of interesting nature features can we expect to see on family hikes in Scott County?
Scott County, particularly in Minnesota, is characterized by beautiful river valleys, glacial features, and wooded areas. Trails often wind through forests and open spaces, some featuring lakes and wetlands. You might encounter diverse plant communities and wildlife. For specific points of interest, consider visiting Cleary Lake Regional Park or finding scenic spots like the Rocks to sit on and overlook the lake.
Are there any toddler-friendly hiking trails in Scott County?
Many of the easy-rated trails in Scott County are suitable for toddlers, especially those with gentle elevation changes and well-maintained surfaces. Routes like the Murphy Hanrehan Park Loop to Henn Parks Road are short and relatively flat, making them ideal for little legs or strollers.
Are dogs allowed on family-friendly hiking trails in Scott County?
Generally, dogs are welcome on many trails in Scott County, provided they are kept on a leash. It's always best to check specific park regulations before you go, as some areas might have restrictions. For example, Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve, which features over 18 miles of natural-surface trails, is a popular spot for dog walkers.
What are some less crowded family hiking options in Scott County?
To avoid crowds, consider exploring trails during off-peak hours or on weekdays. While specific crowd levels vary, areas like the Lawrence Trail or the Mazomani Trail might offer a more serene experience compared to very popular spots, especially outside of prime weekend hours.
What is the best season for family hikes in Scott County?
Each season offers a unique experience in Scott County. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage. Summer is great for longer days, but can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are best. Winter hiking is also possible, with trails often transformed into snowy landscapes, though conditions require appropriate gear.
Are there any family-friendly trails that connect to playgrounds or other recreational facilities?
Many regional parks in Scott County are designed with families in mind and often include playgrounds or picnic areas near trailheads. Cleary Lake Regional Park, for instance, offers extensive trails and recreational facilities that are popular with families.
How long do family hikes typically take in Scott County?
The duration of family hikes varies greatly depending on the trail's length and your family's pace. Many easy trails are designed to be completed within 1-2 hours. For example, the Murphy Hanrehan Park Loop to Henn Parks Road takes approximately 50 minutes, while the Minnregs Lake Loop is closer to 1 hour and 40 minutes. Longer options like the Minnesota Valley State Trail can be several hours, but you can always choose to do a shorter section.
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