4.6
(5)
165
runners
17
runs
Jogging routes around Willernie provide access to a variety of natural settings within the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metropolitan area. The region is characterized by numerous lakes and extensive park systems, offering diverse running trails. Runners can explore routes along large bodies of water like White Bear Lake and smaller, tranquil lakes such as Lost Lake and Colby Lake. The landscape also features established state trails and wooded park areas, providing varied terrain for different running preferences.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4.0
(1)
19
runners
20.5km
02:07
70m
70m
The White Bear Lake – Matoska Park loop offers a delightful jogging experience, characterized by its generally flat, paved surfaces and picturesque lake views. As you move along the route,…
4.0
(1)
20
runners
5.93km
00:37
10m
10m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
runners
9.34km
00:58
50m
50m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
runners
15.8km
01:38
70m
70m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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White Bear Lake is known as Bde Maṭo Ská by the Native Dakota people, and they were known for using the lake's island as a source for making Maple syrup. In his book "Life on the Mississippi" (1883) Mark Twain described the lake as such: "The White-bear Lake is less known. It is a lovely sheet of water, and is being utilized as a summer resort by the wealth and fashion of the State. It has its club-house, and its hotel, with the modern improvements and conveniences; its fine summer residences; and plenty of fishing, hunting, and pleasant drives. There are a dozen minor summer resorts around about St. Paul and Minneapolis, but the White-bear Lake is the resort."
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This beach is part of White Bear Lake County Park and connects to the Mark Sather Trail, which wraps around the west end of the lake. There is beach access, bathrooms, water, and parking here as well.
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Gaze down from Brown's Creek State Trail over the steep drop-off, revealing Browns Creek flowing below.
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Matoska Park is a great little green park on the shore of White Bear Lake. The park has restrooms and picnic tables, as well as a great view of the water.
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The Brown's Creek State Trail and Gateway State Trail meet here at Duluth Junction. There is a large parking area along with restrooms at this trailhead, making it a great spot to start your ride.
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The Gateway State Trail is a paved 18-mile multi-use trail from the city of St. Paul to Pine Point Regional Park.
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This is a very nice local lake with fishing and a walking path that can also make for a good jog.
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At Duluth Junction, two trails converge: the Gateway State Trail, a paved ribbon of green that links St. Paul with Pine Point Regional Park, and the Brown’s Creek State Trail, a scenic jaunt to Stillwater and the St. Croix River. Hike through diverse terrain, from city parks and marshes to forested hills and historic spans . Duluth Junction has parking, restrooms and local trail connections.
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There are over 15 jogging routes around Willernie, offering a variety of distances and difficulties. These routes provide access to scenic lakefront paths, well-maintained state trails, and peaceful park areas within the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metropolitan area.
The running routes in the Willernie area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 3 reviews. More than 100 runners have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic lake views and diverse trail options.
Yes, Willernie and its surrounding areas offer several easy jogging routes. For instance, the Matoska Park – White Bear Lake loop from White Bear Lake is a moderate 3.7-mile path that provides a scenic lakeside experience. Many local parks, like Wildwood Park, also feature relatively flat walking paths suitable for a refreshing jog.
For a more challenging run, consider trails that feature some elevation gain. The White Bear Lake – Matoska Park loop from White Bear Township is a difficult 12.75-mile trail with over 70 meters of elevation gain. Additionally, areas like Schaar's Bluff, atop the Mississippi River Bluffs, offer trails with more significant elevation changes, providing a scenic and demanding option for joggers.
Yes, many of the popular running routes around Willernie are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the White Bear Lake – Matoska Park loop from White Bear Township and the Matoska Park – White Bear Lake loop from White Bear Lake, both offering scenic loops around White Bear Lake.
Jogging routes around Willernie often feature beautiful natural landscapes. You can enjoy panoramic views of White Bear Lake, explore tranquil settings near Lost Lake or Colby Lake, and run through wooded park areas. Highlights like White Bear Lake County Beach and Matoska Park are often along these routes, providing scenic spots to enjoy.
While specific dog-friendly designations vary by park and trail, many of the regional parks and state trails around Willernie generally allow leashed dogs. It's always recommended to check the specific rules of individual parks or trails, such as Wildwood Park or sections of the Brown's Creek State Trail, before heading out with your canine companion.
Yes, several paths are suitable for families. Parks like Wildwood Park in Mahtomedi offer walking paths under mature trees, ideal for a pleasant family jog. The Mississippi River Greenway Loop also provides up to 3 miles of mostly paved surfaces, suitable for all fitness levels, making it a good choice for families.
Many of the popular trails and parks in the Willernie area offer dedicated parking. For example, the Brown's Creek State Trail and Gateway State Trail have designated parking areas at various access points. Parks like Matoska Park and Wildwood Park also provide convenient parking for runners.
The Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area, including Willernie, offers great running opportunities throughout the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, especially for lakeside routes. Winter running is possible, with many trails maintained for year-round use, though conditions can vary with snow and ice.
While Willernie itself is a small community, its proximity to Mahtomedi and the wider Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area means many routes are close to amenities. Jogging around White Bear Lake, for instance, places you near the vibrant downtown area of White Bear Lake, which offers various cafes and restaurants for a post-run refreshment.
Public transport options are available within the broader Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area. While direct public transport to every trailhead in Willernie might be limited, routes serving Mahtomedi or other nearby larger communities could provide access to some trail networks. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for specific routes and stops near your desired trailhead.
For longer runs, the White Bear Lake – Matoska Park loop from White Bear Township is a substantial 12.75-mile trail. Another excellent option is the Gateway State Trail – Duluth Junction loop from Pine Springs, which spans nearly 10 miles and offers a good distance for endurance training.


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