The best walks and hikes in Hennepin County

Embark on the Lake Normandale Loop Trail for an easy hike around the picturesque Normandale Lake. You will follow a mix of paved and gravel paths, enjoying serene water views and the gentle sounds of nature. Keep an eye out for the beautiful cascading waterfall at the outlet of Nine Mile Creek and the distinctive arched bridges, including the Nine Mile Creek Bridge. This accessible route covers 2.6 miles (4.2 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 44 feet (13 metres), making it a relaxing journey that typically takes about 1 hour and 4 minutes to complete.

The Lake Normandale Loop Trail is a welcoming option for many, including families with strollers. Dogs are also welcome to join you on your hike, provided they remain on a leash and you clean up after them. You will find convenient amenities within the park, such as picnic areas for a post-hike meal, a bandshell, and clean restrooms, ensuring a comfortable visit.

Beyond the main trail, the park offers a chance to spot local wildlife, from baby ducks swimming in the lake to the occasional bald eagle soaring overhead. During certain seasons, you can also admire vibrant seasonal blooms like tulips and magnolias, especially near the Japanese Garden. This trail stands out as a peaceful urban escape, providing a refreshing outdoor experience close to the city.

Embark on the Chain of Lakes Loop, a challenging urban hike that connects several beautiful lakes within Minneapolis. This difficult route spans 16.7 miles (26.9 km) and involves a total elevation gain of 318 feet (97 metres), taking approximately 6 hours and 53 minutes to complete. As you hike, you'll experience a unique blend of cityscapes and natural beauty, with serene waters reflecting the surrounding parkland. Imagine walking along the shores of Lake Harriet, where the path offers continuous views of the water and distant city skyline. The trail provides a refreshing escape, allowing you to immerse yourself in a peaceful environment despite being in the heart of the city.

Planning your visit to the Chain of Lakes Loop is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible within Minneapolis. You will find various parking options conveniently located near the different lakes along the route, making it simple to start your hike. Since this is an urban park, you can generally access the trail year-round. However, always check local weather conditions before heading out, as they can influence your experience on the path. Consider starting early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, especially during peak seasons.

This extensive loop is a highlight of the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes Regional Park, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature inside a bustling city. The route seamlessly links popular spots like Lake Bde Maka Ska and Lake of the Isles, showcasing the city's commitment to green spaces. It stands out as a significant urban hiking experience, providing a continuous path around multiple bodies of water. This trail is notable for its ability to combine a substantial physical challenge with accessible urban amenities, making it a distinctive feature of the region.

Embark on an easy hike along the French Beach Loop, a straightforward route that guides you through lush second-growth forests. You will pass towering Douglas fir and western red cedar before reaching the scenic French Park Beach at Medicine Lake. Here, you can take in expansive views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. This pleasant loop covers 1.4 miles (2.2 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 34 feet (10 metres), making it an accessible option for many. Expect to complete the entire hike in about 34 minutes at a relaxed pace.

Planning your visit to the French Beach Loop is simple, as parking is readily available directly at Clifton E. French Regional Park. The park offers a day-use area equipped with picnic tables and drinking water, perfect for a pre- or post-hike break. While the trail is generally accessible, some facilities and paths within the park are also wheelchair friendly. If you bring your dog, remember they are welcome on the trails but must be kept on a leash.

This trail offers a chance to observe local wildlife, as the area is known for whale watching, especially from French Park Beach. Keep an eye out for marine life like seals and various seabirds that frequent the Strait of Juan de Fuca. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Olympic National Park across the water, adding another layer to the scenic experience.

Embark on a moderate hike around the Hyland and Bush Lakes Loop Trail, a 6.5 miles (10.5 km) journey that takes about 2 hours and 44 minutes to complete. You will gain 209 feet (64 metres) in elevation as you explore a varied landscape. The route winds through peaceful oak woodlots and restored tall-grass prairies, offering a refreshing escape into nature. Keep an eye out for the Bench With a View of Hyland Lake, a perfect spot to pause and take in the picturesque waterfront scenery. You will also enjoy tranquil views of Bush Lake's clear, shallow waters as the trail progresses.

Accessing the Hyland and Bush Lakes Loop Trail is straightforward, with ample parking available within the larger Hyland-Bush-Anderson Lakes Park Reserve complex. You can find multiple entry points to begin your hike. It is important to note that during the winter months, certain sections of the Hyland Lake Park Reserve trails are groomed for cross-country skiing. Hiking may not be permitted on these specific groomed sections, so check local signage or park information before you go. Plan your visit accordingly to ensure a smooth experience.

This trail offers a unique opportunity to experience a blend of natural environments, from serene forests to open fields, all within a well-maintained park reserve. The diverse ecosystems support a variety of local wildlife, making it a rewarding route for nature observation. Its location within the Hyland-Bush-Anderson Lakes Park Reserve complex means you are surrounded by extensive green spaces, providing a sense of wilderness close to urban areas. This makes the loop a notable option for those seeking a substantial outdoor experience without traveling far.

Embark on the Eastman Nature Center and Elm Creek Park Reserve Loop, a moderate hiking route that guides you through a rich tapestry of natural environments. This 5.6-mile (9.1 km) journey involves a gentle elevation gain of 188 feet (57 metres), offering a pleasant experience for most hikers. You can expect to complete the loop in about 2 hours and 21 minutes, winding through quiet wooded corridors, open prairies, and wetlands. Keep an eye out for the floating boardwalk near the Eastman Nature Center, a distinct feature that allows you to get closer to the water. The trail provides a refreshing escape into nature, showcasing diverse scenery without being overly strenuous.

To begin your adventure, head to the Eastman Nature Center, which serves as a convenient hub for this route. You'll find ample parking available right at the trailhead, making access straightforward. The Nature Center also provides maps with color-coded trails, which can be helpful for navigation during your hike. While the park is beautiful year-round, consider visiting in autumn when the maple tree alley transforms into a vibrant display of fall colors, enhancing your experience. Always check local conditions before you go, especially for seasonal changes that might affect trail access or wildlife viewing.

This loop is a fantastic way to explore the expansive Elm Creek Park Reserve, known for its diverse ecosystems. As you hike along Rush Creek, you might be lucky enough to spot trumpeter swans or wild turkeys, particularly near the Nature Center. The park's commitment to preserving these natural habitats makes it a significant spot for wildlife observation in the region. Beyond the wildlife, the varied terrain, from dense forests to open fields, ensures that the scenery remains engaging throughout your journey, offering a comprehensive taste of the park's natural beauty.

Embark on an easy hike along the Riley Creek Trail, a peaceful escape winding through a fern-filled forest. You'll follow the gentle flow of Riley Creek, crossing charming wooden bridges that span the water, creating a serene atmosphere. This route covers 3.3 miles (5.2 km) with a modest elevation gain of 206 feet (63 metres), making it a perfect choice for a relaxed outing. Expect to spend around 1 hour and 24 minutes immersed in this green oasis, where you might spot various birds amidst the lush greenery.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible within the Riley Creek Conservation Area. You'll find it conveniently located in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, offering a natural retreat close to urban amenities. Parking is generally available right at the trailhead, ensuring a hassle-free start to your adventure. This makes the Riley Creek Trail an ideal option for a spontaneous and relaxing outdoor excursion.

The trail offers a unique wilderness-like feel, despite its proximity to the city, making it a notable green corridor. As you explore, keep an eye out for local wildlife, particularly various bird species that thrive in this sheltered environment. The conservation area itself provides a valuable natural habitat, preserving the beauty of the creek and its surrounding woodlands. It's a perfect spot to connect with nature without venturing far from developed areas.

Embark on an easy hiking adventure connecting two scenic parks on the Bryant Lake to Lone Lake Trail. This route spans 4.7 miles (7.6 km), featuring a gentle elevation gain of 195 feet (60 metres), and typically takes around 1 hour and 58 minutes to complete. You will experience a diverse landscape, winding through grassy fields, shady woodlands, and wetlands, with picturesque views of Lone Lake from the Lone Lake Pier and unique passages under Highway 62 via tunnels. Expect a mix of mostly gravel and dirt paths, including some pleasant hilly sections within Lone Lake Park that offer a good workout.

Planning your visit to the Bryant Lake to Lone Lake Trail is straightforward and convenient. There are no permits or fees required to access this route, making it an accessible option for everyone. You will find free parking available at both Bryant Lake Regional Park and Lone Lake Park, providing flexible starting points. Both parks are open year-round, ensuring you can enjoy this trail in any season, and dogs are welcome to join you on your hike.

This trail stands out for its unique ability to link two distinct natural areas, offering a varied experience that feels far removed from urban life. The journey provides an excellent opportunity for an exercise hike, combining natural beauty with gentle physical activity. It is a notable regional option for those seeking a tranquil escape and a chance to explore diverse ecosystems without venturing too far from convenient amenities.

Embark on a moderate hike along the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway, an urban route that blends cityscapes with natural beauty. This 8.0-mile (12.8 km) trail offers diverse scenery, guiding you past picturesque lakes like Lake Nokomis and along the Mississippi River. You will gain 123 feet (37 metres) in elevation, and the journey typically takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete. Expect to encounter significant natural features, including the impressive Minnehaha Falls, as you explore this unique parkway system.

Planning your hike on the Grand Rounds is straightforward, as the route is accessible year-round. The paths are mostly paved, making for a smooth experience, and are cleared early even during winter months. Many sections feature separated paths, enhancing safety for both walkers and cyclists. You will also find well-maintained facilities, including restrooms, available at regular intervals along the way.

The Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway stands out as a renowned urban parkway system, offering a rich tapestry of scenery within the city. It provides a unique opportunity to experience both natural landscapes and city life in one continuous journey. This route is notable for its blend of woodlands, riverbanks, and significant natural features, making it a distinctive attraction in the region.

Embark on the Crow Hassan Snowshoe Loop for an easy outing through a peaceful wilderness. This route covers 2.6 miles (4.2 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 98 feet (30 metres), making it perfect for a relaxed exploration. You will wind through expansive restored prairies, home to native wildflowers and grasses, before entering beautiful hardwood forests. Keep an eye out for glimpses of North and South Twin Lakes as you enjoy the serene winter landscape; the entire journey typically takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trails in Crow-Hassan Park Reserve are ungroomed during winter, so you should expect natural snow conditions. The park's trail system uses marked sections instead of numbered loops, which can make navigation a bit challenging. To ensure you stay on track, it is highly recommended to use a reliable map or a navigation app like komoot during your snowshoe adventure.

This loop offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Crow-Hassan Park Reserve, where you might encounter local wildlife such as deer, trumpeter swans, or even bald eagles. The restored prairies are a significant feature, supporting nearly 100 species of native flora. It is a great choice if you are looking for an accessible winter activity that connects you with nature and offers a chance to spot diverse wildlife in a tranquil setting.