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Indian Mounds Loop Trail

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Indian Mounds Loop Trail

Easy

3.3

(20)

hikers

Indian Mounds Loop Trail

Q: How long does it typically take to hike the Indian Mounds Loop Trail?

The Indian Mounds Loop Trail is approximately 5.2 kilometers (3.2 miles) long. Most hikers complete the loop in about 1 hour and 25 minutes, depending on their pace and how often they stop to enjoy the views.

Q: What is the terrain like on this trail?

The trail primarily consists of paved loops, making it generally flat and easy to navigate. It's considered accessible for all ages and ability levels. While mostly flat, some sections within the park do offer a nice uphill segment, providing a good workout for those looking for it.

Q: Are there any notable viewpoints or landmarks along the route?

Yes, the trail offers several points of interest. A major highlight is the Blufftop view of the Mississippi River from Indian Mounds Park , providing panoramic overlooks of the river and the skylines of both downtown St. Paul and Minneapolis. You'll also encounter the ancient Native American burial mounds, which are sacred and fenced off with interpretive signs, and a historic 1929 airway beacon that is still operational.

Q: Is the Indian Mounds Loop Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome to join you, but please ensure they are kept on a leash at all times to respect other visitors and local wildlife.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Indian Mounds Regional Park?

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. However, for the clearest panoramic views of the Mississippi River and city skylines, the cooler months when foliage doesn't obstruct the view are ideal. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful natural scenery.

Q: Do I need a permit or is there an entrance fee for Indian Mounds Regional Park?

There are no permits required or entrance fees to access Indian Mounds Regional Park or its trails. It's a publicly accessible park for everyone to enjoy.

Q: Where can I park to access the trailhead?

Parking is available within Indian Mounds Regional Park. There are designated parking areas that provide convenient access to the trail system. Look for signs once you enter the park.

Q: Does the trail intersect with other well-known paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Indian Mounds Trail (77%), Samuel H. Morgan Regional Trail (38%), Saint Paul Grand Round (59%), United States Bicycle Route 20 (Minnesota) (25%), and the Mississippi River Trail (Minnesota) (25%).

Q: What kind of wildlife might I see on the trail?

Despite being near downtown, the park is home to various wildlife. Keep an eye out for eagles, deer, turkeys, raccoons, and foxes, especially during quieter times of the day.

Q: Is the trail suitable for families with children or strollers?

Absolutely! The trail's paved and mostly flat nature makes it very accessible and suitable for families with children. Strollers can easily navigate most sections of the loop.

01:26

5.22km

80m

Hiking

The Indian Mounds Loop Trail in St. Paul, Minnesota, offers a unique urban hiking experience, blending natural beauty with historical significance. You'll traverse varied terrain, from paved paths to rolling hills, with a notable "somewhat steep" uphill section adding a bit of a workout. The highlight is undoubtedly the blufftop views of the Mississippi River and the St. Paul skyline, especially striking when the leaves are down, and you might even spot wildlife like bald eagles or deer.

This easy 3.2-mile (5.2 km) loop, with a gentle 266 feet (81 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 26 minutes. Parking is available at Indian Mounds Regional Park, and the trail is shared with bikes. For the best views, consider visiting during the cooler months when the tree cover is less dense, allowing for unobstructed panoramas.

Beyond the scenic overlooks, the trail is steeped in history, passing by six ancient Hopewell culture burial mounds that are over 1500 years old and considered sacred. It's also a fascinating spot to observe multiple forms of transportation simultaneously – trains, planes, and river traffic – making it a dynamic and engaging outing for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

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Waypoints

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Parking

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1.34 km

Blufftop view of the Mississippi River from Indian Mounds Park

Highlight • Viewpoint

This is one of many blufftop views of the Mississippi River from Indian Mounds Park in St. Paul. This one happens to be a view downriver toward Hastings.

Tip by

4.20 km

Viewpoint

5.22 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.09 km

2.03 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

2.97 km

2.01 km

132 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Sunday 23 August

27°C

13°C

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it typically take to hike the Indian Mounds Loop Trail?

The Indian Mounds Loop Trail is approximately 5.2 kilometers (3.2 miles) long. Most hikers complete the loop in about 1 hour and 25 minutes, depending on their pace and how often they stop to enjoy the views.

What is the terrain like on this trail?

The trail primarily consists of paved loops, making it generally flat and easy to navigate. It's considered accessible for all ages and ability levels. While mostly flat, some sections within the park do offer a nice uphill segment, providing a good workout for those looking for it.

Are there any notable viewpoints or landmarks along the route?

Yes, the trail offers several points of interest. A major highlight is the Blufftop view of the Mississippi River from Indian Mounds Park, providing panoramic overlooks of the river and the skylines of both downtown St. Paul and Minneapolis. You'll also encounter the ancient Native American burial mounds, which are sacred and fenced off with interpretive signs, and a historic 1929 airway beacon that is still operational.

Is the Indian Mounds Loop Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome to join you, but please ensure they are kept on a leash at all times to respect other visitors and local wildlife.

What is the best time of year to visit Indian Mounds Regional Park?

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. However, for the clearest panoramic views of the Mississippi River and city skylines, the cooler months when foliage doesn't obstruct the view are ideal. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful natural scenery.

Do I need a permit or is there an entrance fee for Indian Mounds Regional Park?

There are no permits required or entrance fees to access Indian Mounds Regional Park or its trails. It's a publicly accessible park for everyone to enjoy.

Where can I park to access the trailhead?

Parking is available within Indian Mounds Regional Park. There are designated parking areas that provide convenient access to the trail system. Look for signs once you enter the park.

Does the trail intersect with other well-known paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Indian Mounds Trail (77%), Samuel H. Morgan Regional Trail (38%), Saint Paul Grand Round (59%), United States Bicycle Route 20 (Minnesota) (25%), and the Mississippi River Trail (Minnesota) (25%).

What kind of wildlife might I see on the trail?

Despite being near downtown, the park is home to various wildlife. Keep an eye out for eagles, deer, turkeys, raccoons, and foxes, especially during quieter times of the day.

Is the trail suitable for families with children or strollers?

Absolutely! The trail's paved and mostly flat nature makes it very accessible and suitable for families with children. Strollers can easily navigate most sections of the loop.

Are there any public transport options to get to Indian Mounds Regional Park?

Yes, Indian Mounds Regional Park is accessible via public transportation. You can check local bus routes in St. Paul for stops near the park entrance.