Reviews and Reports on over 70 bike paths in the Minneapolis/Saint Paul area!

Hello, and welcome to Metro Bike Trails Guide. My name is Séamus Flynn. This website contains reviews of different bicycle trails (most of which are paved) in the Minneapolis/St. Paul five-county metro area, as well as good routes that use my favorite trails. Here we have a growing -- and already huge -- number of bike trails. Whether you're out for a spin 'round the lake or a trek 'cross the state, I hope you find this site helpful for finding new places to bike.

FAQs

What is your favorite trail?
It would be unfair to all the trails out there to name a single favorite. The Reservoir Woods Trail features a winning combination of huge, fun hills and lush woods. I also flip for the unspoiled woods and meadows along the Elm Creek Park Trail and the wow-inducing wetlands and woods along the Northern Segment of the Rice Creek North Trail and the Snail Lake Trail. 

Do you need a pass to bike on any trails in this area?
Not on any trails in Minnesota! On Wisconsin State Trails (one of which is reviewed on this site), a pass is required for everyone 16 and up. Annual $20, daily $4. 

I know of many trails along the Mississippi River, but are there any worthwhile trails on the Minnesota River?
Absolutely. The Big Rivers Trail and the Minnesota River Bluffs LRT Trail offer spectacular views of the Minnesota Valley. However, if you want to get intimate with the river itself, you'll have to do some mountain biking. The Mendota Trail is highly recommended for this purpose, and, if you're up for a twisty singletrack, the Minnesota River Bottoms Trail. 

What are some of the nicest trails around for beginners?
Rail trails pop to mind, however, some (like the Gateway and Bruce Vento) are very busy and have steep trailside drop-offs that are unfenced. Trails that are in flat wetlands and floodplains are great for beginners (like the Snail Lake Trail and the Lilydale - Harriet Island Trail, both of which have small loops and few road crossings). 

Sources

These are some of the websites that helped me locate and find more information on the trails I biked and reviewed.