Metea Park north loop

You can access the North Loop from the Metea Park North Trailhead. Metea Park typically has a small per-vehicle or per-person entry fee. The park also features a nature center with restrooms.

Yes, Metea Park is pet-friendly. Dogs are welcome on the trails but must be kept on a leash at all times.

The wooded sections of the North Loop provide good shade, making it pleasant during warmer months. However, consider seasonal conditions like mud or bugs, especially after rain or during peak insect seasons. Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery.

Yes, Metea County Park generally requires a small per-vehicle or per-person fee for entry. No special permits are typically needed for jogging the trails.

The North Loop offers a more rugged and wild experience compared to the park's southern trails. It features mostly flat, packed dirt trails, with some sections passing through open, mowed grass meadows. You might also encounter boardwalks and gravel on park roads. The wooded areas provide good shade and act as a windbreak.

While Metea Park's trails are generally considered easy, the North Loop is specifically noted as being 'more rugged'. It can offer a good workout due to its varied, less manicured terrain, making it suitable for those looking for a short but challenging 3-5 mile run.

Joggers can enjoy an undisturbed natural environment with diverse ecosystems, including woodlands, wetlands, and reconstructed prairie. You might hear birds and crickets, and observe minnows in the water. The park is home to various wildlife and includes parts of the Meno-aki State Nature Preserve. Cedar Creek, a state-designated scenic river, also adds to the picturesque setting.

Along the North Loop, you'll pass through natural areas like the Replanted Forest and parts of the Meno-Aki Preserve. The trail also runs near Cedar Creek, offering tranquil river views.

Yes, the Metea Park North Loop is a circular route, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps.

This jogging route is approximately 5.6 kilometers (3.5 miles) long. On average, it takes about 35-40 minutes to complete at a jogging pace, depending on your speed and any stops you make.

Given its 'wilder' nature, the North Loop can experience muddy conditions, especially after rain or during wet seasons. Bugs, particularly mosquitoes, might be present during warmer, humid months. It's advisable to check local weather and trail conditions before your visit and consider appropriate gear like insect repellent.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Raccoon Trail.