The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Ramsey County
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Dog friendly hiking trails in Ramsey County offer a diverse landscape for outdoor enthusiasts and their canine companions. The region is characterized by the scenic confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers, providing extensive riverside paths and views. Hikers can explore trails through a rich mix of forests, prairies, and wetlands, often featuring lakeside loops and rolling hills. This varied terrain ensures a range of experiences, from gentle walks to more challenging routes.
Best dog friendly hiking trails in Ramsey…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
1.22km
00:20
30m
20m
Embark on an easy hike along the Shadow Falls via Shadow Falls Trail, a short route that quickly immerses you in nature. This trail leads you to the impressive Shadow…
3.26km
00:53
50m
60m
Embark on the Shadow Falls Loop for an easy hike that immerses you in diverse scenery. You will descend into a ravine where a bubbling brook flows, surrounded by dense…
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13.5km
03:29
80m
50m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Big Rivers Regional Trail, a route spanning 8.4 miles (13.5 km) with an elevation gain of 265 feet (81 metres). You can expect…
28.2km
07:17
150m
180m
The Summit Ave Bikeway invites you to hike through one of the nation's largest urban historic districts, renowned for its architectural beauty. As you follow the route, you will pass…
35.2km
09:03
170m
160m
Embark on a challenging hike along the Samuel H. Morgan Regional Trail, a difficult route spanning 21.9 miles (35.2 km) with an elevation gain of 543 feet (165 metres). This…
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Popular around Ramsey County
Tips from the Community
Nice river views from the bike path.
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Some nice river views here, river on one side, sandstone cliffs on the other, wide trail, some benches.
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Nice parking, river overlook, bathrooms, picnic shelter, etc.
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This is a spot along the Big Rivers Regional Trail with benches where you can sit and admire the Mississippi River flowing by. Just a few meters away, you can also see the confluence with the Minnesota River.
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Lucky's, "Where strangers become friends, and friends become family." Established in 2007, Lucky's 13 Pub has a history rooted in the success of its founders, Charlie Burrows and Linda Young, who also created Axel's Restaurant, located immediately next door, in 1996. Unfortunately, Axel's permanently closed its doors in September 2024, after 29 years of continuous operation. Thankfully, Lucky's continues to thrive. The name "Lucky's 13" directly references Highway 13 in Mendota, Minnesota, where Axel's and Lucky's 13 Pub were first established. The founders considered Highway 13 "lucky" for their business ventures. Lucky's is situated along both the Mississippi River Regional Trail and the MRT (Mississippi River Trail), which stretches from Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota to New Orleans near the mouth of the Mississippi River in the Gulf of Mexico. It provides a refreshing stop and a place to rest for tired and thirsty travelers.
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Here is a link to a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources map of summer trails at Fort Snelling State Park (https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/maps/state_parks/spk00154_summer.pdf). Although bicycles are allowed on many of the park trials, the legend on the map shows, sadly, that the circumferential trail on Pike Island is for hiking only.
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at the tip of Pike Islands a very nice packed Earth bike route around this little Island
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in Ramsey County?
Ramsey County offers over 30 dog-friendly hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes. You'll find a diverse selection suitable for various fitness levels and preferences.
What are the general rules for dogs in Ramsey County parks and trails?
Most Ramsey County parks and trails welcome dogs, provided they are kept on a leash no longer than six feet and owners clean up after them. Specific rules may vary by park, so it's always a good idea to check park signage or the official Ramsey County Parks website for the most current regulations.
Are there easy dog-friendly trails suitable for beginners or families with children?
Yes, Ramsey County has many easy, dog-friendly trails perfect for beginners or families. Routes like Shadow Falls via Shadow Falls Trail offer gentle terrain and shorter distances. Many parks, including Battle Creek Regional Park and Hidden Falls Regional Park, feature paved or well-maintained natural-surface paths with minimal elevation changes.
Which dog-friendly trails offer scenic views or unique natural features?
For scenic views, consider trails in Indian Mounds Regional Park, which provide bluff-top views of the Mississippi River and Saint Paul skyline. The Mississippi Gorge Regional Park also offers picturesque riverside paths. For unique natural features, explore areas like Tamarack Nature Center with its wetland boardwalks, or Hidden Falls Regional Park, where you can find Hidden Falls Creek.
Can I find dog-friendly loop trails in Ramsey County?
Absolutely. Many parks in Ramsey County feature excellent loop trails suitable for dogs. The Shadow Falls Loop is a great example of an easy, dog-friendly option. Lakeside loops are also popular, such as those around Lake Phalen or in Vadnais/Snail Lakes Regional Park.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with my dog in Ramsey County?
Ramsey County offers beautiful hiking opportunities year-round. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery, with early fall colors at Crosby Farm Regional Park being particularly stunning. Even winter hiking is possible, with some trails plowed or shared with snowshoers, such as at Battle Creek Regional Park.
Are there any longer, more challenging dog-friendly routes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, routes like the Summit Ave Bikeway or the Samuel H. Morgan Regional Trail offer significant distances and moderate to difficult ratings, providing a good workout for both you and your dog.
What do other hikers enjoy most about dog-friendly trails in Ramsey County?
The dog-friendly trails in Ramsey County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from riverside paths to forests and wetlands, and the accessibility of trails for various skill levels. Many appreciate the well-maintained paths and the opportunity to enjoy nature with their canine companions.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on dog-friendly trails?
Yes, many parks in Ramsey County offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. Areas like Battle Creek Regional Park and Vadnais/Snail Lakes Regional Park, with their diverse ecosystems of forests, prairies, and wetlands, are home to various birds and small mammals. Hikers might spot deer, squirrels, or wild turkeys, especially during quieter times of day.
Which parks are particularly known for their extensive dog-friendly trail networks?
Fort Snelling State Park stands out with the most natural-surface hiking trails in Ramsey County, offering 18 miles of gravel trails. Other parks with extensive networks include Battle Creek Regional Park, Crosby Farm Regional Park, and Vadnais/Snail Lakes Regional Park, all providing a mix of paved and unpaved options through varied terrain.
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