Mississippi River Greenway

The trail is easily accessible from Kaposia Landing Park in South St. Paul. You'll find ample parking available directly at the park, which serves as a convenient trailhead for this section of the greenway.

This part of the Mississippi River Greenway offers an easy hiking experience. It is primarily paved and relatively flat, making it suitable for a wide range of users, including walkers, cyclists, and those with strollers. While generally flat, you might encounter minor undulations in some sections.

You can expect beautiful views of the Mississippi River throughout your hike. The trail also passes through natural areas, offering glimpses of bottomland trees like cottonwoods and silver maples. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as great blue herons and egrets in wetland areas.

Yes, a significant landmark along this route is the St. Paul Union Pacific Rail Bridge, which offers an interesting historical and architectural feature to observe during your hike.

Yes, the Mississippi River Greenway is generally dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times and that you clean up after them to maintain the cleanliness and enjoyment of the trail for all users.

The Mississippi River Greenway is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer provides lush greenery. Even in winter, the paved path can be accessible for a refreshing walk, though conditions may vary.

Yes, this section of the Mississippi River Greenway is part of a larger network. It intersects with other well-known paths such as the Mississippi River Trail (Minnesota-Alternate), United States Bicycle Route 45A, Robert Piram Regional Trail, and the River to River Greenway, offering opportunities for longer excursions.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access Kaposia Landing Park or to hike this section of the Mississippi River Greenway. It's designed to be a publicly accessible community asset.

Absolutely! With its easy difficulty, paved surfaces, and relatively flat terrain, this section of the Mississippi River Greenway is very suitable for families with children and is easily navigable with strollers.

Along the greenway, you have a good chance of spotting various bird species, including great blue herons and egrets, especially near wetland areas. In the broader Dakota County area, bison viewing is also possible, though less likely directly on this specific short loop.

This particular loop, spanning approximately 3.1 kilometers, can typically be completed in about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the river views.