Hansen Park Loop

Starting near Ramsey County, Minnesota, the Hansen Park Loop is a delightful 2 km (1.24 miles) trail with no significant elevation gain, making it accessible for a wide range of hikers. Despite its relatively short distance, the trail is rated as Medium in difficulty due to some uneven terrain and occasional muddy patches, especially after rain.### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, set your GPS to Hansen Park, located at 1555 5th St NW, New Brighton, MN 55112. There is ample parking available at the park entrance. For those using public transport, the nearest bus stop is at Silver Lake Rd NW & 5th St NW, serviced by Metro Transit. From there, it's a short walk to the trailhead.### Trail Navigation The loop is well-marked, but it's always a good idea to have a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to ensure you stay on track. The trail is a loop, so you'll end up back where you started, making it easy to follow.### What to Expect The Hansen Park Loop meanders through a mix of wooded areas and open spaces, offering a variety of scenery. Early in the hike, you'll pass through a dense canopy of oak and maple trees, providing ample shade. This section is particularly beautiful in the fall when the leaves change color.### Landmarks and Points of Interest About 0.5 km (0.31 miles) into the hike, you'll come across a small pond, a perfect spot for bird-watching. Keep an eye out for local species like mallards, herons, and occasionally, a bald eagle. The pond is also home to various amphibians, so listen for the croaking of frogs.Continuing along the trail, you'll encounter a charming wooden footbridge around the 1 km (0.62 miles) mark. This bridge crosses a small creek that flows through the park. It's a great spot for a quick rest and some photos.### Flora and Fauna The trail is rich in biodiversity. In the spring and summer, wildflowers such as trilliums and violets bloom along the path. The wooded sections are home to squirrels, chipmunks, and occasionally, white-tailed deer. If you're hiking in the early morning or late afternoon, you might spot these animals foraging.### Historical Significance Hansen Park has a bit of historical significance as well. The area was originally inhabited by the Dakota people before European settlers arrived. There are informational plaques along the trail that provide insights into the history and culture of the indigenous people who once lived here.### Trail Conditions The trail is mostly dirt with some gravel sections. After rain, certain parts can become muddy, so waterproof hiking boots are recommended. There are a few benches along the way where you can take a break and enjoy the surroundings.### Final Stretch As you near the end of the loop, the trail opens up into a grassy meadow. This area is often filled with butterflies and bees, especially in the summer months. The meadow leads you back to the starting point, completing the loop.Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, the Hansen Park Loop offers a pleasant and engaging outdoor experience.