Excelsior Brewing – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from Bluff Creek Preserve
Excelsior Brewing – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from Bluff Creek Preserve
3.4
(28)
99
riders
Excelsior Brewing – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from Bluff Creek Preserve
02:10
39.7km
220m
Mountain biking
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 29, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
6.04 km
Excelsior Brewing
Highlight • Pub
Tip by
14.7 km
Dakota Rail Regional Trail – Minnetonka Beach Section
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
15.7 km
Arcola Trestle Bridge Over Lake Minnetonka
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
19.8 km
Ferndale Marsh
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
22.3 km
Dakota Rail Regional Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
25.2 km
Views between Grays Bay and Wayzata Bay
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Tip by
32.4 km
Benches with a view of Lake Minnetonka
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
33.9 km
Saint Albans Bay Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
39.7 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
22.4 km
7.45 km
5.96 km
3.60 km
202 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
24.9 km
7.44 km
6.05 km
955 m
334 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 27 June
27°C
16°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 21.0 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 Excelsior Brewing – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from Bluff Creek Preserve is a moderate 24.7-mile (39.7 km) mountain biking route with 730 feet (223 metres) of climbing, typically taking around 2 hours and 9 minutes to complete. This route is best suited for riders looking for a scenic, mostly paved multi-use trail experience, rather than technical singletrack mountain biking, offering a pleasant ride through Minnesota's lake country.
What to expect on Excelsior Brewing – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from Bluff Creek Preserve
While the name suggests a mountain biking adventure, you'll find the Dakota Rail Regional Trail is predominantly a smooth, paved path, ideal for a relaxed ride. You'll pedal past charming farm fields, serene wetlands, and enjoy picturesque views of Lake Minnetonka and Lake Waconia. The trail winds through wooded areas and small towns, providing a pleasant journey. Expect an easy-to-ride surface, making it accessible for many, though it won't offer the technical challenges of traditional mountain biking. The route is more about enjoying the scenery and the journey than tackling rugged terrain.
Planning your visit
The Dakota Rail Regional Trail is generally well-maintained, offering a smooth ride. Excelsior Brewing in downtown Excelsior is a popular and convenient stop right off the trail, perfect for refreshments. Parking access is available in the towns along the trail, including Excelsior. This trail is suitable for riding in most seasons, though spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Always check local conditions before heading out, especially during winter months.
Trail details
- Distance: 24.7 miles (39.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 730 feet (223 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 9 minutes
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