Elm Creek Park Reserve – Theodore Wirth Parkway loop from Coon Rapids Dam
Elm Creek Park Reserve – Theodore Wirth Parkway loop from Coon Rapids Dam
4.7
(1295)
10,077
riders
Elm Creek Park Reserve – Theodore Wirth Parkway loop from Coon Rapids Dam
02:48
68.7km
280m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Mississippi National River and Recreation Area
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
12.7 km
Elm Creek Park Reserve
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
14.3 km
Bridge on the Medicine Lake Regional Trail
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
17.8 km
Medicine Lake Regional Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
38.1 km
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
39.2 km
Medicine Lake Regional Trail Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
40.8 km
Luce Line Regional Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
47.4 km
The Trailhead at Theodore Wirth Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
50.0 km
Theodore Wirth Parkway
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
51.3 km
Victory Memorial Trail
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
68.7 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
46.2 km
21.4 km
930 m
309 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
64.2 km
3.77 km
828 m
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Elevation
Highest point (310 m)
Lowest point (250 m)
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Weather
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Today
Tuesday 14 July
36°C
22°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a road cycling route that truly delivers a diverse experience, the Elm Creek Park Reserve – Theodore Wirth Parkway loop from Coon Rapids Dam is a fantastic choice. This moderate 42.6-mile (68.5 km) ride, with 927 feet (282 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 2 hours and 48 minutes, is perfect for cyclists who want to feel far from the city without actually leaving the Twin Cities metro area.
What to expect on Elm Creek Park Reserve – Theodore Wirth Parkway loop from Coon Rapids Dam
As you pedal, you'll journey through a rich tapestry of landscapes. Elm Creek Park Reserve offers an extensive system of paved trails with exhilarating twists, turns, climbs, and dips, especially in its southern portion where you'll find some punishing climbs. You'll transition from open prairie to quiet wooded corridors, passing six different lakes and crossing numerous bridges over Elm Creek. The Coon Rapids Dam section provides scenic views along the Mississippi River, while Theodore Wirth Parkway winds through hills and forests around Wirth Lake and Birch Pond, often feeling like a state park up north despite its urban proximity. This route is a moderate to challenging ride, best suited for experienced cyclists looking for a longer, engaging excursion.
Planning your visit
Trailheads for this extensive loop, including at Coon Rapids Dam, typically offer ample parking. You'll find amenities like restrooms, water fountains, and picnic areas available within the parks, and the trails are generally well-maintained. While the route is accessible for much of the year, checking local conditions is always wise, especially after heavy rain or during winter months. This loop is a great option for a full day out, allowing you to explore diverse ecosystems and enjoy a comprehensive cycling experience.
Trail details
- Distance: 42.6 miles (68.5 km)
- Elevation gain: 927 feet (282 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 48 minutes
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