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Minnesota
Ramsey County

Mounds View

Attractions and Places To See around Mounds View - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Mounds View include a variety of natural spaces and recreational facilities. The area features numerous city parks and a comprehensive system of hiking and biking trails, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. Mounds View is situated near the Mississippi River, offering access to river-based attractions and regional trail systems.

Best attractions and places to see around Mounds View

  • The most popular attractions is Coon Rapids Dam, a man-made monument and regional park that was built for hydropower generation in the early 1900s. The surrounding 446-acre park offers scenic views, hiking trails, and various recreational activities.
  • Another must-see spot is Coon Creek Trail, a paved trail that follows Coon Creek for 7 miles. This trail is suitable for cycling and offers a forested environment.
  • Visitors also love St. Anthony Parkway Bridge, a viewpoint that crosses over the BNSF Northtown Rail Yard. The bridge includes an interpretive plaza with preserved truss elements and offers insights into the area's industrial history.
  • Mounds View is known for its recreational facilities, natural spaces, and community events. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from historical sites to extensive trail systems.
  • The attractions around Mounds View are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 30 upvotes and over 25 photos shared.

Last updated: June 25, 2026

Coon Rapids Dam

Highlight • Monument

Coon Rapids Dam, located between Brooklyn Park and Coon Rapids, was built by Northern States Power Company in 1913-14 for hydropower generation, operating until 1966. The surrounding 446-acre Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park is a year-round recreational hub, with scenic views, hiking trails, picnic pavilions, fishing, and boating. The park connects to the Mississippi River Regional Trail, offering biking opportunities between Minneapolis and Ramsey.

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Rice Creek North Regional Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Rice Creek Regional Trail near Mounds View is split into a northern and a western section. The northern section follows the name-giving Rice Creek and encircles two little ponds while passing through woodlands and open meadows.

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Islands of Peace

Highlight • River

This 8-acre park consists of three islands located in the Mississippi River. While Chase Island is accessible on foot, the other two can be reached by water or enjoyed from a distance. The park earned its name from its founder's quote, "Where Peace Is A Way of Life Every Hour of Every Day for All Those Willing to Share the Experience."

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Coon Creek Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Coon Creek Trail is a great 7-mile long trail. It is fully paved and, as the name suggests, it follows along the Coon Creek.

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St. Anthony Parkway Bridge

Highlight • Viewpoint

The St. Anthony Parkway Bridge crosses over the busy BNSF Northtown Rail Yard. Originally built in 1925 as a five-span Warren truss bridge, it was replaced in 2016 with a modern steel truss structure that honors its historic predecessor. Today, the bridge includes an interpretive plaza with preserved truss elements and great views of the rail yard, providing an insight into the area's industrial history.

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Popular around Mounds View

Hiking around Mounds View

Cycling around Mounds View

Road Cycling Routes around Mounds View

Running Trails around Mounds View

MTB Trails around Mounds View

Tips from the Community

Sue
June 23, 2025, View of BNSF Northtown Rail Yard from St. Anthony Parkway Bridge

The St. Anthony Parkway Bridge crosses over the busy BNSF Northtown Rail Yard. Originally built in 1925 as a five-span Warren truss bridge, it was replaced in 2016 with a modern steel truss structure that honors its historic predecessor. Today, the bridge includes an interpretive plaza with preserved truss elements and great views of the rail yard, providing an insight into the area's industrial history.

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This 8-acre park consists of three islands located in the Mississippi River. While Chase Island is accessible on foot, the other two can be reached by water or enjoyed from a distance. The park earned its name from its founder's quote, "Where Peace Is A Way of Life Every Hour of Every Day for All Those Willing to Share the Experience."

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The Rice Creek Regional Trail near Mounds View is split into a northern and a western section. The northern section follows the name-giving Rice Creek and encircles two little ponds while passing through woodlands and open meadows.

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The Coon Creek Trail is a great 7-mile long trail. It is fully paved and, as the name suggests, it follows along the Coon Creek.

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Alex
September 15, 2024, Coon Rapids Dam

Coon Rapids Dam, located between Brooklyn Park and Coon Rapids, was built by Northern States Power Company in 1913-14 for hydropower generation, operating until 1966. The surrounding 446-acre Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park is a year-round recreational hub, with scenic views, hiking trails, picnic pavilions, fishing, and boating. The park connects to the Mississippi River Regional Trail, offering biking opportunities between Minneapolis and Ramsey.

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Construction of the Coon Rapids Hydroelectric Power Dam began in the early 1900s with the aim of providing electricity to Anoka and Hennepin Counties. The dam is almost half a mile long and about 19 feet tall. This point offers impressive views of the roaring waters.

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Liz
October 3, 2021, Islands of Peace

Pavement and walkways in excellent condition (Fall 2021), very peaceful!

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Crosses over BNSF Northtown rail yard

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some notable landmarks and points of interest in Mounds View?

Mounds View is home to several interesting spots. The Coon Rapids Dam is a significant man-made monument and regional park, originally built for hydropower. Another unique landmark is the Mermaid Entertainment & Event Center, recognized for its iconic mermaid statue, which has been a community symbol since the 1960s.

Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in Mounds View?

Yes, Mounds View offers several family-friendly options. The Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park provides recreational activities for all ages, including hiking and picnicking. The Mermaid Entertainment & Event Center offers family entertainment like bowling, arcade games, and pool tables. Additionally, many of the city's ten parks, such as Lakeside Lions Park with its modern playground, are great for families.

Where can I find natural spaces or trails for walking and biking?

Mounds View boasts a comprehensive system of trails and numerous city parks. You can explore the Coon Creek Trail, a 7-mile paved path suitable for cycling and walking through a forested environment. The Rice Creek North Regional Trail also offers scenic routes through woodlands and meadows, encircling small ponds.

Are there any historical sites or viewpoints worth visiting?

For a blend of history and views, visit the St. Anthony Parkway Bridge. It crosses over the BNSF Northtown Rail Yard and features an interpretive plaza with preserved truss elements, offering insights into the area's industrial past and great views of the rail yard.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Mounds View?

Beyond walking and biking, you can find various outdoor activities. For mountain biking, explore routes like 'Theodore Wirth Regional Park – West River Parkway Trail loop' or 'Minnehaha Falls – Fort Snelling Scenic Overlook loop' which are accessible from the area. You can find more details on MTB Trails around Mounds View.

Are there options for road cycling or touring bicycle routes?

Absolutely. Road cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'North Lakes loop' or the 'Coon Rapids Dam – Elm Creek Park Reserve loop'. For touring bicycles, consider the 'Mississippi River and Rice Creek West Trail Loop' or the 'Rice Creek Regional Trail Loop'. More cycling options are available on the Road Cycling Routes around Mounds View and Cycling around Mounds View guide pages.

Are there any dog-friendly parks or trails in the area?

Yes, many of Mounds View's natural spaces are dog-friendly. Islands of Peace, an 8-acre park on the Mississippi River, is a great option for walking with your dog, offering peaceful paved walkways and natural scenery.

What are the best seasons for outdoor activities in Mounds View?

Mounds View offers outdoor activities year-round. Spring and fall are ideal for enjoying the trails and parks with pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. Winter provides opportunities for activities like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in parks like Silver View Park, while summer is perfect for exploring the city parks and attending community events like the annual Festival in the Park.

Are there any wheelchair-accessible trails or attractions?

Yes, accessibility is considered in some areas. The Coon Creek Trail is fully paved, making it suitable for wheelchairs. The St. Anthony Parkway Bridge also includes wheelchair-accessible features, allowing everyone to enjoy the views and interpretive plaza.

What is the Mounds View Community Center and what does it offer?

The Mounds View Community Center serves as a central hub for recreation and community events. It features a fitness center, an indoor walking track, a gymnasium with basketball courts, and multi-purpose rooms for various classes and activities, making it a great resource for residents and visitors alike.

Can I find peaceful outdoor spaces for relaxation?

Certainly. Islands of Peace, with its three islands in the Mississippi River and mature forest, offers a very peaceful environment. Silver View Park is also noted for its calm pond, open green areas, and paved walking trails, perfect for a quiet stroll or picnic.

What cultural events or sites are available in Mounds View?

For those interested in the arts, the Mounds View Community Theater hosts live shows. The city also holds an annual Festival in the Park in August, which is a major community highlight featuring a parade and a Car & Tractor Show.

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