Highlight • Monument
Cycling
5.0
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Hiking
5.0
(4)
The Coon Rapids Dam is a significant concrete gravity dam spanning the Mississippi River, connecting Brooklyn Park in Hennepin County and Coon Rapids in Anoka County, Minnesota. Located approximately 12 miles north of downtown Minneapolis, this impressive structure stands at an elevation of around 247 meters above sea level. It is particularly notable as the southernmost dam on the Mississippi River without locks, marking the theoretical northern limit of the river's navigable portion.
Visitors consistently praise the dam for its…
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Mississippi National River and Recreation Area
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September 15, 2024
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August 7, 2024
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Best routes near Coon Rapids Dam
4.6
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29
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34.1km
01:57
110m
110m
5.0
(1)
1
riders
27.7km
01:35
60m
60m
4.3
(8)
40
riders
46.2km
02:41
140m
140m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Informations
Elevation 250 m
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Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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While the dam itself offers a great connection, for longer excursions, you'll want to explore the extensive Mississippi River Regional Trail. This trail connects directly to the parks on both sides of the dam, offering miles of paved paths suitable for both cycling and hiking, extending between Minneapolis and Ramsey. You can easily plan a route using komoot's route planner to customize your distance.
Absolutely! Both Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park and Mississippi Gateway Regional Park are very family-friendly. Besides the easy, flat trails perfect for strollers and young children, there are picnic pavilions for family gatherings. The visitor centers on both sides often have educational exhibits, and the Anoka County side even hosts a summer concert series, providing entertainment for all ages.
Yes, Coon Rapids Dam and its surrounding parks are generally dog-friendly. Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails within both Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park and Mississippi Gateway Regional Park. Always remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the parks enjoyable for everyone.
The area is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts! Visitors frequently spot a variety of animals including mink, beaver, deer, and turtles. Birdwatchers can look forward to seeing hawks, osprey, and even peregrine falcons. The river itself is home to various fish species, and river otters are occasionally sighted.
While there aren't cafes directly within the park boundaries, both Coon Rapids and Brooklyn Park offer a variety of dining options just a short drive away. You'll find numerous cafes, fast-food establishments, and restaurants in the surrounding neighborhoods, making it easy to grab a bite before or after your visit.
Coon Rapids Dam transforms into a winter wonderland. The parks are popular for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on their extensive trail networks. The frozen landscape offers a unique beauty, and the dam itself can be quite striking with ice formations. Always check local conditions before heading out for winter sports.
Coon Rapids Dam is the central feature connecting both parks. Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park (Anoka County side) and Mississippi Gateway Regional Park (Hennepin County side) are essentially two halves of the same recreational area, linked by the dam's pedestrian walkway. Both offer similar amenities like visitor centers, trails, and picnic areas, but each has its own unique trail configurations and perspectives of the river. Exploring both sides provides a comprehensive experience.
Yes, the 12-foot-wide walkway across the Coon Rapids Dam is designed to be accessible for pedestrians and cyclists, including those using wheelchairs. The terrain leading to and across the dam is generally flat and well-maintained, ensuring a smooth experience for all visitors.
The Coon Rapids Dam has a rich history, originally built between 1913-1914 to generate hydroelectric power for the northern Twin Cities suburbs, operating until 1966. It was later transformed into a recreational area in the late 1960s. It's also notable as the southernmost dam on the Mississippi River without locks, marking the theoretical northern limit of the river's navigable portion. The dam underwent significant reconstruction in the late 1990s and early 2010s.
While the dam itself is a major attraction, many visitors enjoy exploring the quieter, wooded trails that branch off the main paved paths within both regional parks. These offer a more secluded experience and increased chances for wildlife spotting. Additionally, the Anoka County side features Cenaiko Lake, which offers trout fishing, a pleasant alternative to the river itself.
For a summer walk at Coon Rapids Dam, lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for the paved and unpaved trails. Don't forget sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the dam walkway and open areas can be quite exposed. Bringing a water bottle is also advisable to stay hydrated.