Trailhead of the Rum River Regional Trail in Anoka

The main trailhead is conveniently located at Akin Riverside Park, specifically at 1721 River Avenue. Additional parking can be found at Riverfront Memorial Park (2201 2nd Avenue, Anoka) and the Anoka Nature Preserve (4299 Parkview Lane), which also features a playground. While there is plenty of public parking available, please note that public toilets are not directly at the main trailhead.

Within Anoka, the paved section of the Rum River Regional Trail spans approximately 3 to 4 miles, extending 3.16 miles upstream along the east bank of the Rum River from its confluence with the Mississippi to the Anoka Nature Preserve. The trail is generally categorized as 'Easy' for hiking and cycling, making it accessible for a wide range of users, including beginners and families.

Yes, while the main trail is predominantly paved with asphalt, the Anoka Nature Preserve section offers an additional 2+ miles of looping gravel trails. This provides a different experience for those looking for a more natural surface.

Absolutely! The trail is very family-friendly due to its easy, mostly flat, and paved terrain. There are nature-inspired playgrounds at the Anoka Nature Preserve and Bravo Park. For pets, the trail is generally dog-friendly, but always ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them.

Hikers and cyclists can enjoy continuous scenic views of the Rum River. The trail passes by the Rum River dam and through Riverfront Memorial Park. Along the paved portions, you'll find historical markers providing insights into the area's past, including the river's significance for logging and its designation as a Wild and Scenic River.

The Rum River Regional Trail integrates seamlessly with other major pathways, including the Mississippi River Regional Trail and the Central Anoka County Regional Trail. These connections allow for extended explorations and diverse outings beyond the immediate Rum River section.

The trail is a fantastic year-round destination. In winter, the paved sections are cleared of snow, allowing for continued walking and cycling. The Anoka Nature Preserve section is specifically groomed for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and walking, offering excellent opportunities to enjoy the snowy landscape.

While public toilets are not available directly at the main trailhead, the Anoka Nature Preserve offers an open shelter available for rent, and Bravo Park, also along the trail, provides a picnic shelter. These spots are great for a break or a meal.

The Rum River holds significant historical weight, having served as a vital waterway for Chippewa birch bark canoes and later for transporting logs to Fort Snelling. Its name, potentially a mistranslation of Native American terms, has been in use since at least 1766. The river has undergone significant environmental recovery over the past 80 years and is now one of Minnesota's six protected Wild and Scenic Rivers.

Yes, the trail does include a couple of short on-road segments as it passes through downtown Anoka. These sections are generally considered bikeable even for beginners, ensuring the trail remains accessible and enjoyable for most cyclists and walkers.