Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Cycling
5.0
(26)
The Minnehaha Trail is a picturesque, multi-use path nestled within Minneapolis, Minnesota, offering a refreshing escape into nature. This paved trail connects the historic Minnehaha Regional Park with Fort Snelling State Park, tracing the scenic Minnehaha Creek to its confluence with the mighty Mississippi River. As a vital part of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area and the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway system, it showcases the iconic 53-foot Minnehaha Falls, a central feature of the park.
Visitors consistently praise…
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Mississippi National River and Recreation Area
Tips
October 18, 2021
Cycling
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Details
Informations
Distance 2.07 km
Uphill 20 m
Downhill 20 m
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Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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The Minnehaha Trail itself is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) for a one-way trip, or 3 miles (4.8 km) round trip, connecting Minnehaha Regional Park and Fort Snelling State Park. The time to complete it depends on your pace and whether you explore the various viewpoints and historical sites along the way. Many visitors spend 1-2 hours enjoying the main trail and the falls area.
The Minnehaha Trail is generally considered an easy, paved, multi-use path suitable for various activities. However, there is a significant elevation change from the blufftop down to the river, especially in the lower glen near Minnehaha Falls. While the descent is spread over a long distance, some sections, particularly on the south side of the creek, can be more challenging due to stairs and varying terrain. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
The main Minnehaha Trail is a paved, multi-use path, making many sections suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. However, visitors should be aware of the significant elevation changes and staircases required to access the lower glen for views from below Minnehaha Falls. These lower sections may not be fully accessible.
Parking is available at both Minnehaha Regional Park and Fort Snelling State Park. Please note that a daily or yearly permit is required for parking within Fort Snelling State Park. Minnehaha Regional Park is also accessible via public transport, with several bus routes serving the area, and it's part of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway system.
Yes, dogs are welcome on the Minnehaha Trail. To ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors and to protect local wildlife, all dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet.
Beyond the iconic Minnehaha Falls, the trail offers views of the scenic Minnehaha Creek, the Mississippi River gorge, and limestone bluffs. You'll also encounter charming historic bridges, the ruins of the old Godfrey Mill, and other stone structures. The Minnehaha Depot historic site and the John H. Stevens House, an 1849 pioneer home, are also in the vicinity.
Yes, Minnehaha Trail is a year-round destination, and winter offers a unique, serene beauty, especially with the falls partially or fully frozen. However, trail conditions can be icy, particularly in the lower glen and on staircases. Hikers should wear appropriate winter footwear with good traction and dress in layers. Some sections may be less maintained in heavy snow.
Minnehaha Park attracts over 850,000 visitors annually, making it a very popular spot. It can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and during peak seasons like summer. For a more serene experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours, such as early mornings or late afternoons, or on weekdays.
Minnehaha Regional Park, where the trail begins, has amenities including restrooms and picnic areas. There are also concessions available within the park, such as Sea Salt Eatery, which is popular during warmer months. Additionally, the surrounding Minneapolis neighborhoods offer various dining options within a short drive.
The greenway corridor along Minnehaha Creek and the Mississippi River supports diverse local wildlife. Visitors frequently spot waterfowl, various songbirds, and herons along the creek banks. Occasional sightings of deer and foxes are also possible, especially during quieter times.
The Minnehaha Trail connects Minnehaha Regional Park to Fort Snelling State Park. It's also part of a larger network, including the Mississippi River Trail (U.S. Bicycle Route 45) and the Grand Rounds trail system. This allows for longer cycling or hiking loops by combining different segments. While the Minnehaha Trail itself is primarily a linear path, you can create loop options by exploring the various paths within Minnehaha Regional Park or by connecting to adjacent trails.