Nine Mile Creek Bridge – View of the Minnesota River loop from Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
Nine Mile Creek Bridge – View of the Minnesota River loop from Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
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(9268)
9,269
hikers
Nine Mile Creek Bridge – View of the Minnesota River loop from Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
02:57
11.2km
100m
Hiking
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: March 1, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
388 m
Bridge under a bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
1.08 km
Nine Mile Creek Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
4.18 km
Nine Mile Creek Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
5.68 km
View of the Minnesota River
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
10.5 km
River Valley Park
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
11.2 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.96 km
2.75 km
2.48 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
2.91 km
2.50 km
2.48 km
2.28 km
1.03 km
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Elevation
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Weather
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Thursday 20 August
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14°C
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a rewarding hike that blends urban nature with significant wildlife viewing, the Nine Mile Creek Bridge – View of the Minnesota River loop from Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a moderate 7.0-mile (11.2 km) route with 318 feet (97 metres) of climbing, typically taking just under 3 hours. This trail is perfect for those who want a substantial outing without extreme elevation, offering a fantastic way to experience the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge hiking trails near Nine Mile Creek.
What to expect on Nine Mile Creek Bridge – View of the Minnesota River loop from Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
As you embark on this journey, you'll traverse diverse landscapes, starting on the Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail with its unique boardwalks that carry you over sensitive wetlands and marshes. The path transitions from paved surfaces to wide gravel as it approaches the Minnesota River, offering views of forested areas and open meadows. Within the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, you'll find natural-surface and gravel paths winding through floodplain forests and tallgrass prairies, with prominent views of the Minnesota River. While the trail is largely flat and considered moderate, conditions can vary seasonally; expect potential mud or ice, especially during spring runoff, so appropriate footwear is a must. This route is ideal for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers seeking a varied landscape and abundant wildlife sightings.
Planning your visit
Access to this trail system is generally straightforward, with the Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail connecting to the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Education and Visitor Center. Parking is available at various points along the regional trail and within the refuge. While the trails are accessible year-round, fall offers spectacular colors, and spring brings migratory birds. Always check local conditions, especially during spring runoff, as trails can become muddy or even flooded. There are no permits or fees required for hiking here.
Trail details
- Distance: 7.0 miles (11.2 km)
- Elevation gain: 318 feet (97 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 57 minutes
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