Top 10 Scenic Running Trails in Minneapolis Along the Mississippi River
Begin on a journey of discovery as you lace up your running shoes and hit the top 10 scenic trails in Minneapolis along the mighty Mississippi River. Each path offers a glimpse into the city's natural beauty and vibrant urban landscape, making it a runner's paradise. From the tranquil Chain of Lakes Loop to the historic Fort Snelling Island Loop, these trails promise an unforgettable experience. So, why not set out on an adventure and uncover the hidden gems that await you along the river's edge?
Key Takeaways
- Scenic trail downtown showcases river views and historical charm.
- Ultimate River Route Parkway offers 8-11 mile run with skyline vistas.
- Chain of Lakes Loop provides 12.5-mile picturesque challenge around lakes.
- Theodore Wirth Park offers over 20 miles of varied trails for all levels.
- Fort Snelling Historical Island Loop features a 4.5-mile loop with stunning river vistas.
River Views Downtown Start
Starting at 3rd Ave. in downtown Minneapolis, the River Views downtown start offers an enchanting 5-mile route for runners. As you set off on this scenic trail, you'll be greeted by stunning views of the Mississippi River and the iconic Stone Arch Bridge.
Running along this path, you'll pass by historical buildings that add a touch of charm to your journey. The route not only showcases the natural beauty of the river but also provides glimpses of the Minneapolis skyline from the riverfront.
This unique urban running experience allows you to immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of downtown Minneapolis while enjoying the tranquility of the river views. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking for an invigorating workout, this trail is perfect for those seeking a picturesque and energizing run with a blend of nature and cityscape.
Don't miss the opportunity to explore this iconic route and take in the beauty of the Mississippi River as you jog through downtown Minneapolis.
Ultimate River Route Parkway Views
Meander along the picturesque West River Parkway in Minneapolis for an unforgettable 8-11 mile run offering breathtaking views of the majestic Mississippi River. The Ultimate River Route provides an exceptional experience, combining scenic beauty with historical landmarks. Along the way, take a moment to visit Witchs Hat Tower at Tower Hill Park to soak in panoramic views of the iconic Minneapolis skyline. As you continue your journey, crossing the Stone Arch Bridge via East River Parkway adds a touch of charm to this already captivating route. This blend of serene riverfront paths and urban exploration makes the Ultimate River Route a must-do for both locals and visitors alike. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Minneapolis along the Mississippi River with this unforgettable running adventure.
| Landmark | Description |
|---|---|
| Witchs Hat Tower | Offers panoramic views of the Minneapolis skyline |
| Stone Arch Bridge | Adds historical charm to the route |
| Tower Hill Park | Perfect spot to enjoy picturesque views along the way |
Chain of Lakes Loop Breather
If you're searching for a rejuvenating retreat into nature while relishing a longer run in Minneapolis, explore the Chain of Lakes Loop. The 12.5-mile scenic route around Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska, and Lake Harriet offers stunning views of the lakes, charming homes, and relaxing parks, making it a popular choice for runners seeking a picturesque challenge.
Along the loop, you can enjoy a breather at various points, taking in the natural beauty of the area. For added excitement, secretly racing other runners on this trail adds an element of fun and competition to your scenic experience.
- Stunning views of the lakes and charming homes
- Relaxing parks along the route
- Element of fun and competition with secret races
Theodore Wirth Park Trails Variety
Nestled just minutes away from downtown Minneapolis, Theodore Wirth Park boasts a diverse network of trails that cater to runners of all levels. With over 20 miles of trails, this park is a haven for running enthusiasts seeking a mix of scenic beauty and nature immersion. Whether you are a beginner looking for a leisurely jog or a seasoned runner craving challenging terrains, Theodore Wirth Park's trail variety has something for everyone.
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| Trail Type | Difficulty Level | Scenic Beauty |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner-Friendly | Easy | Wooded Areas, |
| Wildlife Sightings | ||
| Challenging | Moderate | River Views, |
| Bluffs | ||
| Advanced | Difficult | Waterfalls, |
| Valley Vistas |
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Explore the extensive trail network and keep an eye out for deer, foxes, badgers, and various birds that call this park home. Whether you seek a tranquil nature run or a heart-pumping workout, Theodore Wirth Park's trails offer an unforgettable experience for all runners.
Fort Snelling Historical Island Loop
The scenic running trails along the Mississippi River continue to captivate with their diversity and historical charm. If you're looking for a blend of history and natural beauty, the Fort Snelling Historical Island Loop is the perfect choice. Here are some highlights to enjoy on this trail:
- Distance: Venture on a 4.5-mile loop around Pike Island and Snelling Lake at Fort Snelling State Park.
- Access: Conveniently reachable via the Blue Line Light Rail train, offering a relaxing journey back to the city after your run.
- Views: Revel in breathtaking vistas of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers as you traverse this scenic route.
Immerse yourself in the historical significance of Fort Snelling while exploring the island loop. This trail not only provides a great running experience but also offers a glimpse into the past.
Keep in mind that vehicles require a $7 daily or $35 annual State Park Pass for entry to Fort Snelling State Park, ensuring you can fully enjoy this historical and scenic running adventure.
Twin Cities Marathon Scenic Paths
With its well-deserved reputation as The Most Beautiful Urban Marathon in America, the Twin Cities Marathon offers runners a breathtaking experience along scenic paths by the Mississippi River. As participants lace up their shoes in Minneapolis and traverse the route to St. Paul, they're greeted with stunning views of the Mississippi River, enhancing their running journey. The scenic paths not only showcase the natural beauty of the river but also highlight the charm of the historic areas and vibrant neighborhoods along the way.
Runners in the Twin Cities Marathon are treated to the picturesque backdrop of the Mississippi River, making their urban marathon experience truly memorable. The route's carefully selected paths allow participants to immerse themselves in the beauty of Minneapolis and St. Paul while enjoying the energy of the running trails.
Whether it's the river's tranquil flow or the vibrant surroundings, the Twin Cities Marathon's scenic paths offer a unique blend of nature and urban charm for all to appreciate.
Minnehaha Parkway Luce Line Trail
Begin on an invigorating adventure along the Minnehaha Parkway Luce Line Trail, where nature's beauty and picturesque scenery await your enthusiastic footsteps.
The Minnehaha Parkway, a 52-mile scenic route from Lake Harriet to Minnehaha Park, and the Luce Line Trail, stretching over 63 miles from Plymouth to Cosmos, provide diverse terrains and well-maintained paths for a delightful running experience.
Enjoy the following highlights along the Minnehaha Parkway Luce Line Trail:
- Tree-lined paths, gardens, and bridges offering a charming backdrop for your run.
- Diverse landscapes including woods, prairies, and wetlands, adding variety to your running experience.
- Well-maintained trails with minimal traffic interruptions, ensuring a peaceful and enjoyable run along the Mississippi River.
Embark on this scenic journey, where the tranquility of nature and the allure of the river will accompany you every step of the way.
Lebanon Hills Diverse Landscapes Seclusion
Embark on a rejuvenating escapade at Lebanon Hills Regional Park, where a tapestry of diverse landscapes awaits your exploration. With over 20 miles of trails weaving through woodlands, ponds, and prairies, Lebanon Hills offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The secluded runs within the park provide a serene environment for longer, uninterrupted runs, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature's beauty.
Here's a glimpse of what Lebanon Hills Regional Park has to offer:
| Trail Types | Terrain Rating | Length (miles) |
|---|---|---|
| Woodlands | Moderate | 8 |
| Ponds | Easy | 5 |
| Prairies | Challenging | 7 |
The park's hilliness rating of 6/10 adds an extra layer of challenge, perfect for those seeking a more dynamic workout experience. Best of all, admission to Lebanon Hills Regional Park is free, making it an accessible and budget-friendly option for your running adventures in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.
Running Stores Accommodation Community Events
Discover a vibrant running scene in Minneapolis and St. Paul with a variety of resources to support your running journey. Whether you need gear, accommodation close to running trails, or a community to connect with, the Twin Cities have you covered.
- Running Stores: Get your running gear and expert advice at Mill City Running, Gear Running Store, Fleet Feet Minneapolis, and TC Running Company.
- Accommodation: Stay near the scenic running trails by booking accommodation in downtown Minneapolis or near Summit Avenue and the State Capitol in St. Paul.
- Community Events: Engage with the supportive Minneapolis Running community and the Twin Cities Running Club. Explore upcoming races and events on RaceRaves to participate in signature running events in the MSP area.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant running culture of Minneapolis and St. Paul, where the Mississippi River and Minnesota's picturesque landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for your running adventures.
Mississippi River Stone Arch Bridge Loop
Meandering along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River in downtown Minneapolis, the Stone Arch Bridge Loop offers runners a mesmerizing 5-mile route showcasing the city's iconic landmarks and serene waters. As you commence on this scenic journey, you'll have the opportunity to cross the historic Stone Arch Bridge, marvel at the Minneapolis skyline, and soak in the tranquil beauty of the Mississippi River.
Engage with the table below to learn more about the Mississippi River Stone Arch Bridge Loop:
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Route Length | 5 miles |
| Starting Point | Near 3rd Ave. in downtown Minneapolis |
| Highlights | Iconic buildings, Minneapolis skyline, Mississippi River, serene waters |
Whether you're looking for a leisurely run surrounded by picturesque views or seeking an invigorating workout in the heart of the city, the Stone Arch Bridge Loop is a popular choice among runners in Minneapolis. Don't miss out on experiencing the beauty of the Mississippi River on this historic and charming trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Is the Best Place to See the Mississippi River in Minneapolis?
The best place to see the Mississippi River in Minneapolis is from the Stone Arch Bridge. You'll enjoy iconic views of the river and downtown skyline, providing a picturesque backdrop for your run along the river.
What River Runs Between Minneapolis and St. Paul?
Flowing between Minneapolis and St. Paul, the majestic Mississippi River links the Twin Cities with its serene beauty. Iconic bridges like the Stone Arch span its waters, offering a scenic backdrop and recreational opportunities for all.
Where to Run in MN?
You can run in MN on various scenic trails, from urban paths with city views to nature-filled routes by lakes and rivers. Explore diverse options like parks and historical landmarks for an immersive running experience.
How to Find Trail Running Routes?
To find trail running routes, simply hit the pavement or hit the web! Lace up those shoes and explore new paths near you. Let the rhythm of your feet guide you to scenic views and endless adventures.
