Staring Lake Loop Trail
Staring Lake Loop Trail
4.5
(8056)
17,581
hikers
Staring Lake Loop Trail
01:00
3.91km
10m
Hiking
Enjoy an easy 2.4-mile hike around Staring Lake in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, offering tranquil views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
706 m
Staring Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
2.54 km
Staring Lake Park Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
3.91 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.87 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
3.87 km
< 100 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Sunday 24 May
27°C
8°C
11 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take to hike the Staring Lake Loop Trail?
Most hikers complete the loop around Staring Lake in about 1 hour. This is a leisurely pace, perfect for enjoying the scenery.
Is the Staring Lake Loop Trail suitable for beginners or families with children?
Absolutely! This trail is considered easy and is ideal for all fitness levels, including beginners, families, and those looking for a leisurely walk. The paved path makes it very accessible.
What is the terrain like on the trail?
The trail features a paved path, making it smooth and easily navigable for walking, running, and biking. You'll experience minimal elevation changes, ensuring a comfortable experience.
What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect to see?
You'll enjoy serene and picturesque views of Staring Lake, lush greenery, wooded areas, and open meadows. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as ducks, geese, and turtles.
What is the best time of year to visit Staring Lake Loop Trail?
The trail is accessible year-round. Spring, summer, and fall offer beautiful conditions for hiking, running, and biking. In winter, the park transforms into a destination for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and ice skating on the lake.
Is the Staring Lake Loop Trail dog-friendly?
Yes, the park is dog-friendly! There's even an off-leash dog exercise area available during spring, summer, and fall, making it a great spot for your canine companion.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required to access Staring Lake Park or the trail?
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access Staring Lake Park or to hike the trail. It's free and open to the public.
Where can I park to access the Staring Lake Loop Trail?
Parking is available at Staring Lake Park. You can find more detailed information about parking facilities on the official Eden Prairie city website.
What other amenities are available at Staring Lake Park?
Staring Lake Park offers a wide range of amenities beyond the trail, including a public boat ramp, a fishing pier, a sand beach, playgrounds, and picnic areas. You'll also find the Eden Prairie Outdoor Center, an archery range, and a disc golf course.
Is the trail a loop or an out-and-back route?
The Staring Lake Loop Trail is a true loop, meaning you'll end up back where you started without retracing your steps. It's a continuous path around Staring Lake.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
The world seemed hushed as the snow fell and flocked the trees with white. The park we hiked in is adjacent to Flying Cloud Airport, yet we heard no planes, likely due to the weather. This real-life hike is #16 on our virtual hiking tour of The South West Coast Path from Land's End to Portloe, which you can follow at: https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1aNgBdvg_b6Lc516vHW1FIcq6sACpP3Y&ll=50.088687509238696%2C-5.302944000000012&z=10. Here is a link to our collection of the real-life hikes that we have completed so far on our virtual hike of the South West Coast Path: https://www.komoot.com/collection/3294167/-virtual-hiking-tour-of-the-south-west-coast-path-from-land-s-end-to-portloe. Here is a link to our Komoot collection of all the Virtual Hikes world-wide we have completed so far: https://www.komoot.com/collection/1791712/-collection-of-our-virtual-hiking-tours.