Gammelgården Museum loop from William O'Brien State Park
Gammelgården Museum loop from William O'Brien State Park
2.8
(11)
21
riders
02:03
33.6km
260m
Cycling
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 27.5 km for 161 m
After 27.7 km for 162 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
27.7 km
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
33.6 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
25.5 km
3.43 km
2.61 km
1.61 km
297 m
123 m
Surfaces
32.8 km
342 m
240 m
194 m
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Elevation
Highest point (320 m)
Lowest point (220 m)
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Weather
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Today
Monday 6 July
31°C
18°C
2 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
The Gammelgården Museum loop from William O'Brien State Park is one of those touring cycling routes that offers a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. This moderate 20.9-mile (33.6 km) route, with 842 feet (257 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 2 hours and 2 minutes, making it an excellent choice for touring cyclists with good fitness looking for a unique day trip combining scenic riding with a historical destination.
What to expect on Gammelgården Museum loop from William O'Brien State Park
Setting out from William O'Brien State Park, you'll immediately be immersed in the diverse landscapes of the St. Croix River valley, cycling past pines, prairie, oak savanna, and hardwood forests, with glimpses of Lake Alice. As you pedal towards the Gammelgården Museum in Scandia, the scenery transitions to rural Minnesota charm. While much of the route is paved, be prepared for varied road conditions; some segments might be unpaved, and roads outside the park can present steep hills and loose gravel, adding a bit of challenge to this otherwise moderate ride.
Planning your visit
The highlight of this loop is undoubtedly the Gammelgården Museum, a unique open-air institution dedicated to Swedish immigrant heritage. Plan your visit to include time exploring its five historic buildings, such as the 1855 Immigrant House and Minnesota's oldest Lutheran church building from 1856. The museum's 11 acres also feature maintained walking paths, prairie, and wetlands, offering a peaceful respite and opportunities to observe wildlife.
Trail details
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