Our Favorite Bike Trails in Minneapolis
Minneapolis is often called the best bicycling city in America, which is due in part to its diverse and expansive collection of trails and paths. From forested hills to lakes, city skylines to sailboats, if you’re looking for a way to get out and visit the city with your family, biking is definitely the thing to do in Minneapolis. Grab your helmet, Hamax child bike seat or bike trailer, and the kids for a day of exploring.
See our favorite family bike trails in Minneapolis, MN below.
1. Midtown Greenway
This urban wonder is wildly popular and connects the Mississippi River, LRT trail, and the chain of lakes via a paved railroad corridor. The 5.5-mile trail is open year round – plowed during the winter and lit at night! The trail is quite busy with commuters and is a great way to get across the city quickly. See a map here to plan your route.
2. North Cedar Lake Regional Trail
Urban skyline views and woodland scenery come together to create a beautiful, ever-changing view on this 4.2-mile trail. The North Cedar Lake Regional Trail connects with the Cedar Lake LRT Regional Trail at the south end, where you’ll also find a little coffee shop perfect for a mid-ride thirst quencher. You’ll also pass by Victoria Lake across from Texa-Tonka Park, which is a great place to let the kids out of their Hamax trailer for a bit of exercise.
3. Saint Anthony Parkway Regional Trail
If your kids are into trains or dogs, then this is the trail for you. You’ll be riding on the Grand Rounds Trail which parallels Saint Anthony Parkway for about 3.5 miles. Starting on Stinson Blvd, you’ll first pass an off-leash dog park, which is a great place to stop and pet furry friends. Crossing over the train yard on the Saint Anthony Bridge is a hit for everyone. Those who love trains can see them come and go, while those looking for a photo-op can get a spectacular view of the downtown area. The ride ends along the Mississippi River where you can stop for a quick picnic. You can see a map of the full trail here.
4. Lake Calhoun Loop
This 3.2-mile trail around the lake features beautiful scenery including several beaches. Sail boats and canoes can be seen on the lake most afternoons, and the sunsets are incredible. The paved, mostly flat trail is separated from the runners and other pedestrians and is maintained year round. There are plenty of water activities to try your hand at after getting sweaty wheeling the kids around, or maybe just a nap on the beach. If the kiddos need a break too, the playground offered next to the lake is a perfect option.
5. Theodore Wirth Regional Park
Located about 10 minutes from downtown Minneapolis, this 760-acre park is a heavenly retreat away from the rush of the city. While there are several bike and pedestrian trails located in the Theodore Wirth Regional Park, the short 1.35-mile bike trail is perfect for families with little ones. Make sure to visit the plaque at the corner of Wirth Parkway and Golden Valley Road that marks the 45 degrees latitude line, exactly halfway between the equator and the North Pole.
Make sure the kids are comfortable in their Hamax bike trailer or child bike seat before taking off and grab any accessories you might need at Hamaxusa.com. Enjoy your adventure!
