Lake Marion to Chub Lake Wildlife Management Area

The Lake Marion to Chub Lake Wildlife Management Area route is an easy road ride, estimated to take about 1 hour and 35 minutes to complete. This duration is based on the approximately 40 km (24.8 miles) distance and gentle elevation changes.

Yes, this route is classified as an "Easy road ride" and is highly suitable for cyclists of any fitness level, including beginners. It features mostly well-paved surfaces and a relatively flat profile, with an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 feet).

While specific parking locations for this exact route aren't detailed, as it's part of the larger Lake Marion Greenway, you can look for parking options near Lake Marion in Lakeville or near the Chub Lake Wildlife Management Area. The Lake Marion Greenway project aims to enhance access, so public parking is generally available at parks along the greenway, such as Kelleher Park.

You can expect mostly well-paved surfaces throughout the route, making for a smooth and accessible road cycling experience. The terrain is relatively flat, contributing to its "easy" difficulty rating.

The route offers diverse natural beauty. You'll enjoy lakeside views near Lake Marion and pass through the preserved Oak woodlands and undeveloped lake shoreline of the Chub Lake Wildlife Management Area. Keep an eye out for deer, pheasants, turkey, and various waterfowl, as these areas are important habitats. A boardwalk in Kelleher Park also spans wetlands, offering unique views.

The best time to cycle this route is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is mild and the trail conditions are optimal. Minnesota's winters can bring snow and ice, making road cycling less feasible.

Yes, the route connects two significant natural areas: Lake Marion, a popular destination with parks and amenities, and the Chub Lake Wildlife Management Area, known for its oak woodlands and undeveloped shoreline. A highlight of the broader Lake Marion Greenway is a boardwalk that spans wetlands in Kelleher Park, providing unique scenic views.

Generally, dogs are allowed on most public trails in Minnesota, including those within Wildlife Management Areas, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check local signage or the Lakeville city website (lakevillemn.gov) for specific regulations regarding pets in parks and wildlife areas along the route.

For road cycling on the Lake Marion to Chub Lake Wildlife Management Area route, which is part of the Lake Marion Greenway, you typically do not need a specific permit or have to pay entrance fees. However, if you plan to engage in other activities within the Wildlife Management Area, such as hunting or trapping, different regulations and permits may apply. Cycling itself is generally free.

While the route itself is primarily natural, being part of the Lake Marion Greenway, you can find amenities in the nearby communities it connects, such as Lakeville. Lake Marion is a popular destination with parks and various amenities along its shores, where you might find restrooms. For cafes, pubs, or restaurants, you would likely need to venture slightly off the immediate trail into the adjacent towns.

Yes, this route is an integral part of the larger Lake Marion Greenway project, a planned 20-mile regional trail network designed to connect several communities, including Burnsville, Lakeville, and Farmington. While only 1% of the route specifically covers the Cedar Ave Trail, it is part of this broader vision for interconnected recreational opportunities.