The best traffic-free bike rides around Golden Valley
4.7
(194)
6,579
riders
11
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Golden Valley offer a diverse landscape, combining urban stretches with open natural settings. The region is characterized by extensive parklands and a network of well-maintained trails, providing varied terrain and elevation profiles. Over 15% of the city is dedicated to parks and open spaces, contributing to a mix of developed areas and natural features. This environment supports a range of cycling experiences, from flat paths to routes with gentle climbs.
Best no traffic road…
Last updated: May 28, 2026
35
riders
29.9km
01:16
150m
150m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
29
riders
39.4km
01:50
170m
170m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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7
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
11
riders
18.0km
00:45
80m
80m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
7
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Golden Valley
Tips from the Community
The Luce Line Regional Trail seamlessly connects the city to the Minnesota prairie for hikers and cyclists. Visitors cross wooded bridges with views of Bassett Creek marshlands and Medicine Lake, then pass through Plymouth and Golden Valley into Theodore Wirth Park. Enjoy great views of the Minneapolis skyline and access major trails like the Cedar Lake Trail and Midtown Greenway. West of Vicksburg Lane, the Luce Line State Trail extends more than 60 miles, transitioning from crushed limestone to pavement and natural paths. The Luce Line Regional Trail is open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm.
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THis 12-acre park along the shore of Medicine Lake is a good spot to have a water or snack break during your ride. There's a playground for the kids too, if you are out on a family ride.
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Part of Theodore Wirth Park, The Trailhead is a hub for outdoor recreation in the community. Here, you'll find ski passes and all the essentials for your adventures in the park. There are lockers, a drinking fountain, restrooms, concessions, and equipment rentals.
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Theodore Wirth Parkway is one of seven segments of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway. Although you do share the Parkway with cars, its generally pretty quiet and the road is well-paved, making this a pleasant section of riding.
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The Luce Line State Trail is a 63-mile rails-to-trails path that stretches from Plymouth to Cosmos. The trail offers both rural and urban landscapes as it travels through woodland, suburbs, and wetlands.
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This trailhead sits at the junction of Medicine Lake Trail and the Luce Line Regional Trail along the banks of Medicine Lake. The trailhead offers parking, beachside amenities, restrooms, and drinking fountains.
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The Dakota Rail Regional Trail stretches 28.1 miles from Wayzata to Lester Prairie, Minnesota, along the former Hutchinson Spur of the Great Northern Railway. This paved trail is popular with bikers, skaters, and hikers, offering a look at lakes, wetlands, woodlands, and farmlands. Starting in Wayzata, you can park at the trailhead on Grove Lane and grab a bite or fill up water downtown. The Carver County section extends an additional 12.5 miles west of St. Bonifacius to Mayer. Maps along the trail show your location, restrooms, and nearby services, with parking available at several locations.
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The Luce Line Trail stretches 76.7 miles across Carver, Hennepin, McLeod, and Meeker counties, connecting rural Minnesota with urban Minneapolis. This rail trail has different surfaces along the way, including asphalt, crushed stone, and grass, and is open to biking, walking, running, horseback riding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. The trail passes through wetlands, wooded areas, lakes, and prairie remnants, with highlights like Otter Lake and Medicine Lake. The trail connects with other regional paths and provides scenic views, including the Minneapolis skyline. The Luce Line follows a former rail corridor with a rich history dating back to the early 1900s.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many traffic-free road cycling routes are available in Golden Valley?
Golden Valley offers 10 dedicated traffic-free road cycling routes. Most of these are rated as easy, with a couple of moderate options for those seeking a bit more challenge.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Golden Valley?
The komoot community highly rates the traffic-free road cycling routes in Golden Valley, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 150 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the scenic beauty of the parks, and the peaceful, car-free environment that makes for a relaxing ride.
Are there any family-friendly traffic-free road cycling routes in Golden Valley?
Yes, many of the routes are suitable for families. The majority of the traffic-free routes are rated as easy, making them ideal for cyclists of all ages and skill levels. For a shorter, easy option, consider the Brownie Lake – Cedar Lake loop from Willard-Hay, which is just over 15 km.
Can I find circular traffic-free road cycling routes in Golden Valley?
Absolutely. Several routes offer circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular choice is the Cedar Lake – Bde Maka Ska loop from Elmdale Rd, providing a scenic ride around two beautiful lakes.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on these routes?
The routes in Golden Valley offer diverse landscapes, from urban stretches to expansive natural settings. You'll cycle through well-maintained parks, past lakes like Cedar Lake and Bde Maka Ska, and experience the green spaces that make up 15% of the city. Theodore Wirth Regional Park, which extends into Golden Valley, offers a mix of wooded areas and open spaces.
Are there any notable natural attractions along the traffic-free routes?
Yes, you can explore several natural attractions. Theodore Wirth Regional Park is home to the unique Quaking Bog, accessible via floating boardwalks. You'll also encounter beautiful lakes such as Cedar Lake and Bde Maka Ska, which are central to some of the cycling loops.
What are the surface conditions like on the traffic-free road cycling routes?
The traffic-free road cycling routes in Golden Valley are generally characterized by well-paved surfaces, ensuring a smooth ride. While the focus is on road cycling, some segments might transition to unpaved sections, offering a varied experience. Always check individual route details for specific surface information.
Are there any longer, more challenging traffic-free routes available?
For those looking for a longer ride, the Luce Line State Trail – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from Elmdale Rd is a moderate option spanning nearly 40 km. This route offers a greater distance while maintaining a traffic-free experience.
Where can I find parking for these traffic-free bike trails?
While specific parking details vary by trailhead, many parks and trail access points in Golden Valley offer dedicated parking. For routes utilizing major trail systems like the Luce Line Trail or those around Theodore Wirth Regional Park, you'll typically find convenient parking facilities. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route for the nearest parking options.
Are there any places to stop for refreshments or amenities near the routes?
Yes, Theodore Wirth Regional Park, which is central to many routes, features The Trailhead, which includes Mill Valley Market for refreshments and seasonal equipment rentals. Additionally, Golden Valley's proximity to Minneapolis means that amenities like cafes and restaurants are easily accessible near many trailheads.
What is the best season for traffic-free road cycling in Golden Valley?
The best seasons for traffic-free road cycling in Golden Valley are typically spring, summer, and fall. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant. While winter cycling is possible, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, and some services may be limited.
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