Crow-Hassan Perimeter Loop

The Crow-Hassan Perimeter Loop is located within Crow-Hassan Park Reserve. Parking is available at designated trailheads within the park. It's advisable to check the Three Rivers Park District website for specific parking lot locations and directions.

Yes, Crow-Hassan Park Reserve is part of the Three Rivers Park District, which typically requires a vehicle permit for entry. You can purchase daily or annual permits at the park entrance or online through the Three Rivers Park District website.

Yes, dogs are welcome on most trails within Crow-Hassan Park Reserve, including the Perimeter Loop, provided they are kept on a leash. The park also offers an off-leash dog area for your furry companion.

The trail offers different experiences throughout the year. Late summer is particularly vibrant when native wildflowers are in bloom and prairie grasses begin to show autumnal tints. Winter hiking is also possible on plowed or minimum-maintenance routes, offering a serene experience. Spring and early summer are great for birdwatching.

Hikers can expect a natural-surface trail composed of dirt, gravel, and sand. Some sections may have loose sandy areas, which can require a bit more effort. The route features gentle rolling hills, winding through both open restored prairies and forests of mostly hardwoods.

The loop offers a diverse landscape, including expansive restored prairies with nearly 100 species of native wildflowers, and wooded areas. The Crow River borders the park's northern and western sides. You might spot wildlife such as deer, coyotes, rabbits, owls, and various bird species like ducks.

The trail system can be a bit tricky to navigate, as sections are numbered rather than clearly marked loops, and trail markers may not always align with map numbers. It is highly advisable to carry a phone with a GPS app, such as komoot, to help you stay on track.

No, biking is not permitted on the natural surface trails of the Crow-Hassan Perimeter Loop. The trails are multi-use, shared primarily with horseback riders and hikers.

Yes, the loop takes you through the beautiful Crow-Hassan Park Reserve, known for its extensive native prairie restoration. You'll also pass by South Twin Lake, offering scenic views.

The Crow-Hassan Perimeter Loop is generally considered to be of easy to moderate difficulty. While there are no major challenging sections, the potentially loose sandy parts of the trail might require a bit more effort. It's a good option for those looking for a longer, relatively flat hike with varied scenery.

Crow-Hassan Park Reserve is particularly notable for being one of the first parklands in the Three Rivers Park District set aside for native prairie restoration, which began over 50 years ago. It maintains a rustic, less developed feel, focusing on preserving its natural context and boasts over 800 acres of restored prairies, recognized as one of Minnesota's most diverse.