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Best river hiking trails in Minnesota
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Best river hiking trails in Minnesota

Go with the flow on these riverside adventures! From gentle streams to powerful rapids, these trails offer constant companionship with the sound of rushing water by your side.

Here are some great trails to explore in Minnesota.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Willard Munger State Trail

St. Louis County, Minnesota · star 5.0 (53) · 23.6 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

2

Easy

Red Jacket Trail

Blue Earth County, Minnesota · star 4.0 (35) · 18.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 7 min

3

Easy

Moir Park and Central Park Loop

Hennepin County, Minnesota · star 4.0 (45) · 3.5 km · Est. 47 min

4

Easy

Harriet Island Regional Park and Cherokee Regional Park Loop

Ramsey County, Minnesota · star 4.0 (37) · 7.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 39 min

5

Medium

Pincushion Mountain and Devil Track River via Superior Hiking Trail

Cook County, Minnesota · star 5.0 (43) · 16.0 km · Est. 3 hrs 54 min

6

Easy

Bass Lake and Dry Lake Loop

St. Louis County, Minnesota · star 4.0 (56) · 10.1 km · Est. 2 hrs 16 min

7

Easy

Rum River Regional Trail

Anoka County, Minnesota · star 4.0 (26) · 9.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 59 min

8

Easy

Mendota Trail

Dakota County, Minnesota · star 5.0 (51) · 18.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 45 min

9

Easy

Vermillion Falls Park - Lake Isabel Loop

Dakota County, Minnesota · star 4.0 (36) · 8.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 42 min

10

Easy

Eagle Mountain and Whale Lake Trail

Cook County, Minnesota · star 4.0 (47) · 10.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 24 min

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Reviews for river hiking trails in Minnesota

Davida Cremin II avatar

Willard Munger State Trail

SprinterWoodlander87 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Lavern Mann avatar

Red Jacket Trail

RangeSeeker52 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Alfred Douglas avatar

Moir Park and Central Park Loop

BackpackerClimber45 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Malcolm Goodwin avatar

Harriet Island Regional Park and Cherokee Regional Park Loop

RockySnowwalker22 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Lyle Mohr avatar

Pincushion Mountain and Devil Track River via Superior Hiking Trail

PathMountaineer99 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Minnesota

What is the climate like for hiking in Minnesota?

Minnesota's humid continental climate offers diverse hiking experiences throughout the year. Summers, from June to August, are warm and can be humid, making lakeside trails especially appealing. However, winters can be very cold with heavy snow, turning trails into cross-country ski paths.
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) bring milder temperatures and less humidity, creating comfortable conditions for hiking. Additionally, spring unveils the state's blooming flora, while fall displays vibrant foliage.
In summary, spring and fall are the best times to hike in Minnesota, providing pleasant weather and stunning landscapes. Hikers should always check local forecasts and trail updates before setting out, possibly via the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website (https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/).

Do I need a permit to hike in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, general hiking doesn't usually require permits. However, specific activities like camping in state parks might. To ascertain the need for any permits, it's recommended to check with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/), the managing body for most public lands.

Is wild camping allowed in Minnesota?

Wild camping is allowed in Minnesota's national forests and certain state forests, subject to specific rules. Campers should follow Leave No Trace principles and regulations detailed by the U.S. Forest Service (https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/dispersed-camping) and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/).

Are there mountain rescue services in Minnesota?

In an emergency while hiking in Minnesota, call 911 for immediate assistance. Search and rescue operations are typically coordinated by local law enforcement or fire departments. For additional safety information and resources, consider visiting the Minnesota Search and Rescue Association website https://camsearchandrescue.com/minnesota-sar-team/

Are there dangerous plants in Minnesota?

Minnesota's trails encompass diverse ecosystems with flora like pine, birch, and maple trees, alongside numerous wildflowers. Be aware of poison ivy, especially in forested areas. For more information on the state's plant life, refer to the Minnesota Wildflowers website (https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Minnesota?

Minnesota's wildlife includes deer, squirrels, and numerous bird species. Watch for mosquitoes and ticks during warmer months; using repellents is advised. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website (https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/) offers an extensive guide to the state's wildlife and associated safety precautions.

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