The best family-friendly hikes and walks around St. Paul
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Family friendly hiking trails around St. Paul, Minnesota, offer a diverse range of outdoor experiences within an urban setting. The region is defined by its extensive Mississippi River corridor, featuring prominent bluffs, serene valleys, and dense floodplain forests. St. Paul's park system encompasses varied ecosystems, including oak forests, grasslands, and wetlands, providing accessible trails for all skill levels. This unique blend of natural and urban environments makes St. Paul an ideal destination for family-friendly outdoor exploration.
Best family friendly hiking…
Last updated: October 11, 2026
4
hikers
8.65km
02:16
70m
70m
The Snelling Lake, Fort Snelling, Picnic Island Loop offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance right in the Twin Cities. You'll wander along the peaceful shores of…
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
1.97km
00:30
0m
10m
Discover the tranquil beauty of the Crosby Farm Upper Lake Loop, an easy 1.2-mile (2.0 km) hiking trail that offers a delightful journey through varied landscapes. You'll stroll through mature…
1
hikers
3.26km
00:53
50m
60m
If you're looking for a quick, engaging hike with a unique payoff, the Shadow Falls Loop in St. Paul is a great choice. This easy 2.0-mile (3.3 km) route, which…
4.30km
01:08
60m
10m
Embark on the Point Douglas Trail, an easy 2.7 miles (4.3 km) hiking route that guides you along a paved, multi-use path. You will experience a gentle ascent, gaining 187…
5.22km
01:26
80m
90m
The Indian Mounds Loop Trail in St. Paul, Minnesota, offers a unique urban hiking experience, blending natural beauty with historical significance. You'll traverse varied terrain, from paved paths to rolling…
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Tips from the Community
I hadn't been here in maybe 40 years since I was in 6th grade. There is quite a bit to see here in this rebuilt fort. Neat to see how many different trades people they had at the fort and what life would have been like on the frontier.
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Battle Creek takes its name from the Battle of Kaposia (also known as the Battle of Battle Creek). In June 1842, a band of roughly 100 Ojibwe warriors traveled south to attack the Dakota village of Kaposia, then led by Chief Little Crow. The Ojibwe hid in the deep, wooded ravine near this site to launch a surprise attack. The ensuing battle lasted for several hours and was so intense that early settlers in what is now downtown Saint Paul could hear the gunfire and watch the fighting from the bluffs across the river. This conflict was the last major large-scale battle between these two nations in the Saint Paul area.
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An easily accessible section of the Mississippi River Boulevard that offers an elevated view of the river, with the Lake Street Bridge visible in the background. The lush green trees framing the scenery and the flowing river make this path a perfect place to ride.
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A spot along the trail where you can pause and appreciate the river views. There is a bench where you can sit and admire the river flowing gracefully between the trees.
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Today I tried to visit this highlight but the trail leading to it was closed by the park service. Hopefully, next time.
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This little stretch of boardwalk cuts between Crosby Lake and Upper Lake, giving you better access to trails along the shores of the Mississippi.
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Fort Snelling, a National Historic Landmark located on the Dakota homeland known as Bdote, has a rich history over the last 10,000 years. Visitors can explore stories of the military fort and its surroundings, learn of the history of Native peoples, trade, soldiers, veterans, enslaved individuals, immigrants, and the evolving landscape. Admission fees vary with age, but MNHS members, Native Americans, and veterans are given free entry. Hours and days of operation vary by season.
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The island is situated between the Minnesota River on one side and the Mississippi River on the other. It was regarded as a sacred place by the Dakota Indians, as it marks the point where these two great rivers converge. One can observe a subtle distinction where they meet, as the Minnesota River carries sediment and has a slightly muddier color compared to the clearer waters of the Mississippi River.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around St. Paul?
St. Paul offers a fantastic selection for families, with over 50 family-friendly hiking trails. The majority of these, around 40, are rated as easy, making them perfect for all ages and skill levels.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for families with young children?
Absolutely! Many trails are designed for easy, circular walks. For a gentle and scenic option, consider the Crosby Farm Upper Lake Loop, which is just under 2 km and offers lovely views of Crosby Lake and wooded bottomlands.
What kind of natural features or landmarks can we expect to see on these trails?
St. Paul's trails are rich in natural beauty. You'll find stunning river bluffs, dense floodplain forests, and diverse ecosystems including oak forests, grasslands, and wetlands. Many trails run along the Mississippi River, offering scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife. Don't miss the breathtaking Minnehaha Falls, a particularly popular natural monument, or the picturesque waterfall at Hidden Falls Regional Park.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls?
Yes, St. Paul is home to beautiful waterfalls that are accessible via family-friendly trails. The Shadow Falls via Shadow Falls Trail is a great option to experience a picturesque cascade. Hidden Falls Regional Park also boasts a lovely waterfall, creating a serene ambiance for your hike.
Which parks are best for spotting wildlife with kids?
For wildlife spotting, Battle Creek Regional Park is an excellent choice. Its 1,840 acres encompass diverse landscapes where you might see hawks, egrets, herons, foxes, chipmunks, and deer. Crosby Farm Regional Park and Hidden Falls Regional Park also offer good opportunities for birding and observing local fauna along the Mississippi River.
Are the family-friendly trails in St. Paul accessible by public transport?
Many of St. Paul's parks and trails are well-integrated into the city's infrastructure, making some accessible via public transport. For example, parks along the Mississippi River often have bus stops nearby. It's always a good idea to check local transit routes for specific trailheads before you go.
Are there trails suitable for strollers or very young children?
Yes, many trails in St. Paul are paved or well-maintained with minimal elevation changes, making them ideal for strollers and young children. The 6.7 miles of paved trails at Crosby Farm Regional Park and Hidden Falls Regional Park are great examples. The Lake Phalen loop, a 3.7-mile paved path, is another excellent choice for an easy, accessible walk.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in St. Paul?
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in St. Paul, with an average score of 4.34 stars. Reviewers often praise the beautiful river views, the accessibility of the trails, and the diverse natural environments that make each outing an adventure for the whole family.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly hiking trails?
Many parks and trails in St. Paul are dog-friendly, provided your furry friends are kept on a leash. Always check specific park regulations before your visit, but generally, you'll find plenty of options to bring your dog along for a family hike.
Are there any longer, moderate family hikes for older kids?
For families looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Snelling Lake, Fort Snelling, Picnic Island Loop is a moderate 8.6 km route that offers varied terrain and scenic views within Fort Snelling State Park. Another good option is the Big Rivers Regional Trail, which is longer but generally flat, following the river for an extended adventure.
What are some good places to explore near the trails for a full family day out?
Beyond the trails, St. Paul offers several family-friendly attractions. Como Lake, located within Como Regional Park, is a century-old staple that also features the Como Zoo & Conservatory. The Confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers at Fort Snelling State Park is a significant historical and natural site worth visiting. You can also explore the Indian Mounds Park for historical insights and great views.
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