The best hikes from bus stations around St. Paul
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Bus station hiking trails around St. Paul, Minnesota, offer access to a diverse landscape shaped by the Mississippi River. The region features prominent river bluffs, extensive wooded bottomlands, and varied ecosystems including wetlands and lakes. These natural elements provide a range of terrain for hiking, from riverside paths to trails through urban parks.
Best bus station hiking trails around St. Paul
- The most popular bus station hiking route is Shadow Falls Loop, a 2.0 miles (3.3 km) trail that takes about 55 minutes to complete. This easy route leads to a hidden waterfall and offers views of the Mississippi River.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Crosby Farm Regional Park loop from Lilydale, an easy 4.1 miles (6.6 km) path. This trail winds through woods, wetlands, and around lakes within a significant regional park.
- Local hikers also love the Como Lake – Como Lake loop from Hamline University, a 2.4 miles (3.8 km) trail leading through parkland around a popular lake, often completed in about 1 hour.
- Hiking around St. Paul is defined by the Mississippi River corridor, river bluffs, and wooded parklands. The network offers options for different ability levels, with 18 easy and 6 moderate routes.
- The routes in St. Paul are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 750 hikers have used komoot to explore St. Paul's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 11, 2026
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3.26km
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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 you can complete in about 53 minutes with only 152 feet (46 metres) of elevation gain, offers a surprising mix of terrain and scenery. You'll wander through serene, tree-covered ravines, encounter sections with natural stairs made from tree roots, and be treated to fantastic views of the Mississippi River from various overlooks. The absolute highlight is Shadow Falls itself, a delicate, shimmering waterfall where you can actually walk behind the cascade, making for a memorable experience.
While the overall difficulty is easy, be prepared for varied conditions; some unpaved sections can be muddy or slick, especially after rain, and the descent to the waterfall can be steep. Proper hiking boots are definitely recommended to navigate these parts safely. This loop is perfect for a short outing, whether you're looking for a morning stroll or an afternoon adventure. It's a great way to get some fresh air and unique views without committing to a long day on the trail.
Shadow Falls Park has been a beloved city park since 1902, offering a natural oasis within the bustling Twin Cities. Historically, Shadow Falls was a popular destination in the mid-1800s, and the trail still reveals fascinating geological layers in its ravines, showcasing the Mississippi River Gorge's impact. This trail is a true hidden gem, providing a rich blend of natural beauty and local history in a compact, accessible package.
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4.76km
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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88
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6.55km
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Big pavilion, the outdoor eating area was still closed for the winter when I was there today.
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Como Pavilion is the perfect spot next to Como Lake to enjoy a peaceful lunch break under much appreciated shade.
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The Minnesota State Fairgrounds, located in Falcon Heights, hosts the legendary "Great Minnesota Get-Together." Spanning 322 acres, it features historic architecture, livestock barns, food vendors, and year-round events and exhibitions.
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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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At Crosby Farm, you can find shaded areas along the river that are perfect for taking a break, having a snack, or simply enjoying the river views.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus-accessible hiking trails are available in St. Paul?
There are over 20 bus-accessible hiking trails in St. Paul featured in this guide, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. Most of these, around 18, are rated as easy, with a few moderate options for those seeking a longer challenge.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes accessible by bus in St. Paul?
Yes, St. Paul offers many easy, family-friendly hikes accessible by bus. The Shadow Falls Loop is an easy 2.0-mile hike leading to a hidden waterfall and offering views of the Mississippi River. Another great option is the Como Lake loop, which is mostly flat and circles the scenic lake within Como Regional Park, a popular destination for families.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on bus-accessible trails in St. Paul?
St. Paul's bus-accessible trails showcase a diverse range of natural features, primarily centered around the Mississippi River Corridor. You can expect to see wooded bottomlands, wetlands, river bluffs, and lakes. Parks like Crosby Farm Regional Park feature woods, wetlands, and even small caves, while Hidden Falls Regional Park is known for its namesake waterfall, Hidden Falls Creek.
Are there any bus-accessible hiking trails in St. Paul that feature waterfalls?
Yes, you can find waterfalls on bus-accessible trails in St. Paul. The Shadow Falls Loop leads to a picturesque hidden waterfall. Additionally, Hidden Falls Regional Park, accessible by bus, is home to Hidden Falls Creek, a distinctive natural attraction.
Can I bring my dog on these bus-accessible hiking trails?
Many parks in St. Paul, including those with bus-accessible trails, are dog-friendly, generally requiring dogs to be on a leash. For specific park regulations regarding pets, it's always best to check the individual park's website or signage before your visit. Crosby Farm Regional Park and Hidden Falls Regional Park are generally welcoming to leashed dogs.
Are there any longer, moderate hikes accessible by bus?
For a longer, moderate hike accessible by bus, consider the Minnesota State Fairgrounds – Space Tower loop from Hamline University. This route covers approximately 12.4 kilometers and offers a more extended exploration of the area, providing a good option for those looking for a greater challenge than the easy loops.
What do other hikers enjoy most about bus-accessible trails in St. Paul?
The komoot community highly rates the bus-accessible trails in St. Paul, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the convenience of public transport access, the diverse natural scenery along the Mississippi River, and the well-maintained paths that make these trails enjoyable for all skill levels.
Are there any circular routes among the bus-accessible hikes?
Yes, many of the bus-accessible hikes in St. Paul are circular routes, making them convenient for exploration without needing to retrace your steps. Examples include the Crosby Farm Regional Park loop and the various Como Lake loops, which allow you to start and end at the same point, often near a bus stop.
What are some notable points of interest or landmarks along these bus-accessible trails?
Along St. Paul's bus-accessible trails, you can find several notable points of interest. Besides the natural beauty of the Mississippi River and its bluffs, you might encounter historical sites, scenic overlooks, and various lakes. Como Lake is a central feature in Como Regional Park, and Lake Phalen offers a popular loop trail. Indian Mounds Regional Park, though not directly listed as a route here, provides stunning views of the Mississippi River and the St. Paul skyline.
What is the best time of year to hike the bus-accessible trails in St. Paul?
The bus-accessible trails in St. Paul can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a unique experience. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage along the river bluffs. Summer is popular for longer days and warmer weather, and even winter offers serene, snow-covered landscapes for those prepared for colder conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Where can I find more information about St. Paul's parks and outdoor activities?
For more general information about St. Paul's extensive park system and other outdoor activities, you can visit the official city website for parks or the local tourism board. For example, you can find details about Hidden Falls Regional Park on the St. Paul government website, or explore broader outdoor options via Visit Saint Paul.
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