The best city hikes and walks in Hennepin County
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3,872
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Urban hiking trails in Hennepin County are characterized by a blend of urban accessibility and natural features. The region features numerous lakes, including the Chain of Lakes, and the Mississippi River, often bordered by scenic paths. Extensive park ecosystems offer diverse landscapes, from woodlands and wetlands to open meadows, providing varied terrain for urban exploration.
Best urban hiking trails in Hennepin County
- The most popular urban hiking route is Lake Smetana Loop, a 2.2 miles (3.5 km) trail that…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
1.84km
00:28
10m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
3.47km
00:54
10m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
hikers
6.00km
01:31
10m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.76km
00:58
10m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.13km
00:48
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
Lake Smetana is a perfect location for a lunch break. It features a paved 1.6-mile loop, picnic areas, and a fishing pier. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including black bullhead, black crappie, bluegill, brown bullhead, green sunfish, hybrid sunfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, pumpkinseed, yellow bullhead, yellow perch, common carp, white sucker, and golden shiner. The South Fork of Nine Mile Creek flows through Lake Smetana before joining Nine Mile Creek, which eventually empties into the Minnesota River.
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This pier extends out onto Round Lake, providing excellent fishing opportunities and some of the best views of the water in the park. It's a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy nature.
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Round Lake, part of the Purgatory Creek Chain of Lakes, features a trail that circles the entire lake, offering waterfront views along the way. In the winter, you can enjoy activities like ice skating on the rink found here.
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There's a paved bike trail all around the lake, at this end there's a wooden platform on the water you can go on.
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With waterfalls, bluffs, bridges, and miles of paved paths, Minnehaha Creek Park is a great spot for running in the city. The main paved trail (the Minnehaha Creek Trail) runs all the way to Lake Nokomis and connects to other parks in the area.
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Right before or after you cross Highway 100 in Edina, you will see Edina Lake. It is a shallow lake with poor water quality, not meeting state standards for shallow lakes. Therefore, it's advisable not to engage in activities involving direct contact with the water.
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North Mississippi Regional Park is a long-reaching park along the Mississippi River. There are bike paths that travel the length of the park and offer great views of the river, bridges, islands, and dense woods. If you hop off your bike and sit by the riverside, you may just encounter some of the park's beaver population or spot some unique birds.
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Round Lake is in Round Lake Park in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. This pretty local park hosts various events like the annual Fourth of July Celebration and other city-sponsored events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Hennepin County?
Hennepin County offers a wide variety of urban hiking experiences, with over 90 routes available. These trails seamlessly blend urban accessibility with natural beauty, providing diverse options for exploration.
What kind of terrain can I expect on urban hikes in Hennepin County?
Urban hikes in Hennepin County feature a mix of terrain. You'll find many trails winding around the region's abundant lakes, such as the Chain of Lakes, and along the mighty Mississippi River. Expect well-maintained paved paths, as well as natural surface trails through woodlands, wetlands, and open meadows. Some areas, like the Mississippi River Gorge, offer bluffs and more varied elevation.
Are there urban hiking trails suitable for beginners or those looking for an easy walk?
Yes, Hennepin County is very accommodating for easy walks. Over 80 of the urban hiking trails are rated as easy, making them perfect for casual strolls or beginners. Routes like the Lake Smetana Loop or the Round Lake Beach Loop are great examples of accessible and enjoyable paths.
What is the best time of year for urban hiking in Hennepin County?
Hennepin County offers beautiful urban hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage, especially along the river and lake paths. Summer is ideal for enjoying the waterfronts, and even winter provides opportunities for serene walks through snow-covered landscapes in parks like Theodore Wirth Regional Park.
Are there any notable natural features or landmarks to see along urban hiking trails in Hennepin County?
Absolutely! Many urban hikes in Hennepin County pass by significant natural features and landmarks. A must-see is Minnehaha Falls in Minnehaha Regional Park. You can also explore trails around beautiful lakes like Lake Nokomis and Cedar Lake, or discover the Coon Rapids Dam along the Mississippi River.
Can I find urban hikes that offer scenic views or waterfront experiences?
Yes, Hennepin County is renowned for its scenic waterfront urban hikes. The Chain of Lakes (Lake Harriet, Bde Maka Ska, Lake of the Isles) and Lake Nokomis are encircled by picturesque paths offering stunning views. The Mississippi River also provides numerous trails, including those in Mississippi Gateway Regional Park, with impressive vistas of the river and its bluffs.
Are the urban hiking trails in Hennepin County family-friendly?
Many urban hiking trails in Hennepin County are excellent for families. Parks like Minnehaha Regional Park offer easy, paved paths and attractions like Minnehaha Falls that appeal to all ages. The numerous lakeside loops are generally flat and well-maintained, providing safe and enjoyable outings for families with children.
Are urban hiking trails in Hennepin County dog-friendly?
Hennepin County offers many dog-friendly urban hiking options. Most regional parks and trails, including those around the Chain of Lakes and along Minnehaha Creek, welcome leashed dogs. Always check specific park regulations, but generally, you'll find plenty of places to enjoy a walk with your canine companion.
What are the options for parking and public transport near urban hiking trails?
Given their urban nature, many trails in Hennepin County are easily accessible by both car and public transport. Major parks like Minnehaha Regional Park and those within the Chain of Lakes area have dedicated parking lots. Minneapolis's extensive public transport system, including buses and light rail, also provides convenient access to numerous trailheads throughout the county.
Are there any urban hikes that follow a circular route?
Yes, circular routes are a popular feature of urban hiking in Hennepin County, especially around the many lakes. The Lake Smetana Loop and Round Lake Beach Loop are great examples of easy, scenic circular trails that allow you to start and end at the same point.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about urban hiking in Hennepin County?
The urban hiking trails in Hennepin County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the beautiful blend of city convenience with natural landscapes, the well-maintained paths, and the stunning waterfront views, particularly around the lakes and along the Mississippi River.
Most popular routes in Hennepin County
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