The best cycling routes around Brooklyn Center
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1,649
riders
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Touring cycling around Brooklyn Center offers an extensive network of paved paths and regional trails, connecting to natural areas and the Mississippi River. The landscape features numerous parks, wetlands, and waterways like Shingle Creek, providing diverse environments for cyclists. The city's 522 acres of parks and nature areas, including Palmer Lake Park, contribute to a varied terrain suitable for cycling. Elevation changes are generally gentle, making many routes accessible for a range of abilities.
Best touring cycling routes around Brooklyn Center
- The most popular touring cycling route is Dayton & Elm Creek Preserve loop — Brooklyn Park, a 41.4 miles (66.7 km) trail that takes 3 hours 47 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores natural preserves and connects to regional park systems.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Stone Arch Bridge – Boom Island Park loop from Fridley, an easy 19.2 miles (30.9 km) path. This route offers scenic views along the Mississippi River and passes through urban parklands.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Thomas Beach – Cedar Lake South Beach loop from Webber-Camden, a 16.8 miles (27.1 km) trail leading through urban lakes and green spaces, often completed in about 1 hour 37 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Brooklyn Center is defined by its extensive paved paths, connections to the Mississippi River, and natural features like Palmer Lake Park and Shingle Creek. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to longer regional connections.
- The routes in Brooklyn Center are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 270 reviews. More than 1,700 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Brooklyn Center's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.0
(2)
6
riders
38.9km
02:11
80m
80m
The Mississippi, Rush Creek & Shingle Creek Trails Loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience through varied landscapes right in the Minneapolis area. You'll glide along mostly paved and wide paths, enjoying views of the Mississippi River, traversing wetlands on the Shingle Creek Trail, and circling the lush Palmer Lake Park, which is home to abundant wildlife. It's a smooth, relatively flat ride that feels like a journey through urban nature.
This moderate 24.2-mile (38.9 km) loop, with a minimal 256 feet (78 metres) of elevation gain, can be comfortably completed in about 2 hours and 11 minutes. It's an excellent choice for families or beginner touring cyclists looking for accessible bike trails. The route's connectivity to other regional parks means you can easily extend your ride if you're feeling ambitious, but the loop itself is a perfect standalone outing.
What sets this route apart is its seamless blend of urban park settings and natural preserves, offering a chance to spot wildlife without leaving the city's reach. The Shingle Creek Trail and Rush Creek Regional Trail segments are part of a larger network, highlighting the region's commitment to multi-use paths. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the Twin Cities, providing scenic viewpoints and a user-friendly cycling environment.
66.7km
03:47
210m
210m
Cycle the Mississippi River and Rush Creek Trail Loop, a moderate 41.4-mile route with river views and shaded paths.
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5.0
(1)
1
riders
27.7km
01:35
60m
60m
The Rush Creek and Mississippi River Trail Loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience, guiding you through a mosaic of Minnesota landscapes. You'll pedal along paved paths that transition from the wooded and rural stretches of the Rush Creek Regional Trail to the scenic river views of the Mississippi River Trail, and then past the greenery and marshlands of the Shingle Creek Trail. It's a journey that feels both natural and urban, with plenty of visual interest.
This easy route is perfect for those new to cycling or looking for a relaxed outing, covering 17.2 miles (27.7 km) with a gentle 181 feet (55 metres) of elevation gain. You can comfortably complete it in about 1 hour and 34 minutes. Its accessible terrain makes it a great choice for family-friendly cycling, and you'll find it easy to get out on, even if you're an inexperienced rider.
What makes this Rush Creek Mississippi River Trail Loop cycling route stand out is its unique combination of natural beauty and urban accessibility. It's part of the larger Mississippi River Trail system, offering connections to extensive networks and allowing you to experience hardwood forests, river bluffs, and urban parks. Keep an eye out for the Coon Rapids Dam, a notable landmark along the way.
4.7
(3)
62
riders
44.8km
02:37
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(6)
20
riders
51.3km
02:56
130m
130m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Getting near Elm Creek park as you get to this bridge.
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Cool farm house full of exhibits if you catch it when it's open, it's a fun tour.
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This is the only sign of it's type I have ever seen, when they built this bridge to get over 610/81 it gets near the power lines, and apparently you can feel weird as you go under them. They say it's safe, it's just magnetic force.
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A nice regional trail that tucks in and out of the woods
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The Dakota Park Bridge is a pedestrian bridge that takes you above the railroad tracks that run alongside North Cedar Lake Regional Trail.
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Dayton River Road is lightly trafficked route ideal for road cycling. It runs parallel to the river, offering a steady ride with mild elevation changes. Key access points to nearby trails and parks are available along the route.
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This is a great park featuring plenty of options for outdoor activities. The paved Shingle Creek Regional Trail runs through the grounds, which leads to the Palmer Lake Nature Area, the largest natural preserve in Brooklyn Center. There are picnic areas, a playground, and outdoor fitness equipment, which is ideal if you're looking for a great place to get some extra exercise during your ride.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How extensive is the touring cycling network in Brooklyn Center?
Brooklyn Center offers a comprehensive network for touring cyclists, featuring over 67 miles of paved paths within the city. This system connects to a broader 20-mile trail network that extends into neighboring communities and along the Mississippi River, providing diverse environments from urban parklands to natural preserves.
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while cycling in Brooklyn Center?
Cyclists in Brooklyn Center will experience a variety of landscapes. The region is characterized by its extensive parks, wetlands, and waterways like Shingle Creek. Notable areas include Palmer Lake Park, a large natural environmental preserve with marshes and wetlands, and the scenic Mississippi River shoreline, offering views of the river and surrounding woods.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Brooklyn Center has many easy routes. For example, the Stone Arch Bridge – Boom Island Park loop from Fridley is an easy 19.2-mile path that offers scenic views along the Mississippi River. Another accessible option is the Thomas Beach – Cedar Lake South Beach loop from Webber-Camden, which is 16.8 miles and takes you through urban lakes and green spaces.
What are some of the key natural features or trails to explore in Brooklyn Center?
Key natural features include Palmer Lake Park, which hosts the peaceful Palmer Lake Loop Trail, ideal for nature experiences. The Mississippi River forms a significant recreational asset, with access to North Mississippi Regional Park and sections of the Mississippi River Trail. Additionally, the Shingle Creek Regional Trail provides a major corridor through the city, connecting various natural settings.
Are there any specific attractions or landmarks I can visit along the cycling routes?
Yes, several attractions are accessible. You can cycle past Cedar Lake, a beautiful lake, or visit the Coon Rapids Dam. The Midtown Greenway is also a notable cycleway that connects to the broader network, offering urban exploration opportunities.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Brooklyn Center?
The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Brooklyn Center. Spring brings blooming nature, summer provides warm weather for extended rides, and fall showcases beautiful foliage, particularly along natural areas like Palmer Lake Park and the Mississippi River.
Are there any longer touring cycling routes for more experienced riders?
Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, the Dayton & Elm Creek Preserve loop — Brooklyn Park is a moderate 41.4-mile trail. This route explores natural preserves and connects to regional park systems, offering a more extensive cycling experience.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Brooklyn Center?
The touring cycling routes in Brooklyn Center are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 327 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive paved paths, the connections to the Mississippi River, and the diverse natural features like Palmer Lake Park and Shingle Creek.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Many routes in Brooklyn Center are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Examples include the Stone Arch Bridge – Boom Island Park loop from Fridley and the Thomas Beach – Cedar Lake South Beach loop from Webber-Camden, both providing scenic circular tours.
Can I bring my dog on the touring cycling trails in Brooklyn Center?
Many parks and trails in Brooklyn Center are dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and to check specific park regulations before you go. Natural areas like Palmer Lake Park often welcome leashed pets, allowing you to enjoy the ride with your canine companion.
Are there options for parking near the touring cycling routes?
Yes, many of Brooklyn Center's parks and trailheads, such as Centennial Park, offer dedicated parking facilities. Given the extensive trail system and numerous access points, you can typically find convenient parking to begin your cycling adventure.
How many touring cycling routes are available in total around Brooklyn Center?
There are over 120 touring cycling routes available around Brooklyn Center, catering to a wide range of abilities. This includes 87 easy routes, 41 moderate routes, and a few more challenging options, ensuring there's a path for every cyclist.
Most popular routes around Brooklyn Center
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