The best gravel rides in Dakota County

Embark on a truly unique gravel biking experience with the Hand-Pulled Bike Ferry – View of the Minnesota River loop, a moderate 15.5-mile (25.0 km) journey. This route winds through the Minnesota River floodplain, offering picturesque views as it meanders along the river through wooded areas and open fields. You'll encounter varied terrain, from hardpack dirt to challenging sandy sections, making each ride a dynamic adventure.

Before you go, be aware that this trail is prone to periodic flooding, which can significantly change its features and conditions. Always check current trail status, as river levels dictate accessibility and the presence of features like the hand-pulled bike ferry. The estimated duration for this ride is around 2 hours and 7 minutes, with a modest 308 feet (94 metres) of elevation gain.

Part of the broader Minnesota River Bottoms area, this trail is continually shaped by the river's activity, ensuring no two rides are exactly alike. It's a popular spot for wildlife spotting and birdwatching, shared with hikers and runners, so expect to share the path. The hand-pulled bike ferry itself is a notable landmark, adding a memorable and interactive element to your ride.

The View of the Minnesota River – Hand-Pulled Bike Ferry loop offers a truly distinctive gravel biking experience, guiding you through a rich tapestry of prairies, woodlands, and wetlands alongside the Minnesota River. This 21.9-mile (35.3 km) route, with its unique hand-pulled bike ferry across Nine Mile Creek, provides ever-changing scenery and the chance to spot diverse wildlife like bald eagles and white-tailed deer. Expect a moderate challenge due to varied surfaces, including crushed gravel, dirt, and occasional loose sand, making it best suited for gravel bikes with wider tires.

Planning your ride on this 2 hours and 43 minutes loop means preparing for dynamic trail conditions, as the Minnesota River periodically reshapes the path with fresh sand and silt. While the 376 feet (115 metres) of elevation gain is modest, the variable terrain contributes to its moderate difficulty. Be sure to check the operational status of the hand-pulled bike ferry, as it can be seasonally affected by river conditions. Spring and fall are particularly beautiful times to visit, offering wildflowers or vibrant autumn colors.

This loop stands out as a prime example of Minnesota River Hand-Pulled Bike Ferry loop gravel biking routes, providing a wild, natural experience within an urban setting. The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, home to this trail, boasts approximately 50 miles of trails, making it a significant hub for outdoor activity. The valley's landscape, carved by the ancient Glacial River Warren, adds a layer of geological interest to the diverse ecosystems you'll encounter.

The View of the Minnesota River – Old Cedar Avenue Bridge loop from 16 Av S offers a delightful gravel biking experience, winding through the rich ecosystems of the Minnesota River Valley. You'll traverse a mix of paved and firm-pack gravel paths, passing through lush floodplain forests and expansive marshlands. The highlight is undoubtedly the historic Old Cedar Avenue Bridge, which provides stunning Minnesota River valley scenic views and access to observation boardwalks over Long Meadow Lake, perfect for spotting local wildlife.

This easy 10.6-mile (17.1 km) route, with a gentle 233 feet (71 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes just over an hour to complete, making it a great option for a quick outing. Parking is readily available near the 16 Av S trailhead. While the trail is generally accessible, some sections can get muddy after rain, so it's wise to check conditions. The best time to gravel bike Minnesota River is often during the drier months of late spring or early fall for optimal comfort and wildlife sightings.

Beyond the scenic ride, this Old Cedar Avenue Bridge loop gravel biking trail connects you to the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, a unique metropolitan refuge teeming with fox, otters, eagles, and migrating waterfowl. The rehabilitated Old Cedar Avenue Bridge itself is a significant historical landmark, linking an extensive network of trails and offering excellent vantage points for birdwatching. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and historical Old Cedar Avenue Bridge loop points of interest in the area.