Rice Creek West Regional Trail

The Rice Creek West Regional Trail spans approximately 5.8 miles (9.3 km) from Long Lake Regional Park in New Brighton to Plaza Park in Fridley, Minnesota. It is generally considered to be of easy difficulty, or 'green difficulty'. While much of the trail is paved and relatively flat, some sections, particularly those in Anoka County, feature rolling hills and winding paths through riparian woodland, offering a more traditional hiking feel.

You can access the trail from several points, with parking available at the parks it connects. A primary starting point is Long Lake Park in New Brighton. Other access points include Locke County Park, Fridley Community Park, and Plaza Park, all of which offer parking facilities.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and ensure you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all trail users and protect the natural environment.

The trail offers different experiences throughout the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with changing foliage in autumn. Summer is also popular, though some sections can be sunny. Winter hiking is possible, but conditions may vary, with snow and ice present. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.

Yes, Long Lake Regional Park, like many regional parks in the area, typically requires a daily or annual vehicle permit for entry. It's advisable to check the Ramsey County Parks and Recreation website for the most current information on fees and permits before your visit.

The trail offers varied terrain. The section within Ramsey County, starting from New Brighton, is primarily a paved pathway, often paralleling a railway line. As it enters Anoka County, the trail becomes more meandering, winding through riparian woodland with some hilly sections. You'll encounter woods, lakes, and wetlands, with scenic views of Rice Creek and numerous bridges.

The Rice Creek West Regional Trail is primarily a linear, out-and-back trail, connecting various parks between New Brighton and Fridley. While it's not a loop in itself, its connections to other local and county parks, and the broader Rice Creek Chain of Lakes area, offer opportunities to create longer, multi-use routes.

The trail's main feature is its journey alongside Rice Creek, offering serene views and a sense of natural escape. It connects several parks, including Long Lake Park, Locke County Park, Fridley Community Park, and Plaza Park. You'll also find numerous bridges crossing the creek and access to the Mississippi River at Manomin Park via a railroad crossing from Plaza Park.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Rice Creek West Regional Trail (covering about 50% of the route) and the Rice Creek North Regional Trail (covering about 18% of the route), allowing for extended exploration within the larger regional trail system.

For a more natural, winding, and hilly hiking experience, consider starting your hike from the Anoka County side, particularly near Locke County Park. This section is noted for its 'gorgeous by the creek' scenery and more traditional hiking feel, contrasting with the paved and straighter sections closer to New Brighton.