The best walks and hikes around North St. Paul
4.8
(18)
319
hikers
47
hikes
Hiking around North St. Paul provides access to a network of trails within its 14 parks, three nature preserves, and the prominent Gateway State Trail. The region features recreational lakes like Casey Lake and Silver Lake, alongside wetland restoration projects such as the Urban Ecology Center. These areas offer varied terrain for outdoor activities, from paved paths to natural walking trails.
Best hiking trails around North St. Paul
- The most popular hiking route is Lake Phalen loop — Saint Paul, a 3.7 miles (6.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 31 minutes to complete. This easy route circles Lake Phalen, offering scenic views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Battle Creek Winthrop Recreation Area loop — Battle Creek Regional Park, an easy 2.4 miles (3.8 km) path. This trail explores the varied landscape of Battle Creek Regional Park.
- Local hikers also love the Beaver Lake County Park loop — Saint Paul, a 1.9 miles (3.0 km) trail leading through parkland around Beaver Lake, often completed in about 46 minutes.
- Hiking around North St. Paul is defined by state trails, nature preserves, and recreational lakes, offering accessible routes for various activity levels. The network includes options for easy walks and longer excursions.
- The routes in North St. Paul are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 200 hikers have used komoot to explore North St. Paul's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
4.62km
01:11
20m
20m
The Oakdale Nature Preserve Loop is a fantastic easy hike, offering a refreshing escape into nature with minimal effort. This 2.9-mile (4.6 km) route features a gentle 56 feet (17 metres) of elevation gain, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll that takes about 1 hour and 11 minutes. You'll wander through peaceful forests, restored tallgrass prairie, and along streams, with a charming boardwalk crossing a section of Mud Lake, providing lovely views of the water and marshlands.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the preserve is highly accessible and family-friendly. The Oakdale Discovery Center on-site offers a wealth of information, nature exhibits, and even rentals like snowshoes and adventure backpacks, making it a great hub for your outing. The trail's mix of paved and earth paths caters to different preferences, and it's suitable for various activities beyond hiking, including biking and bird watching.
What truly sets this preserve apart is its blend of natural beauty and educational features. Beyond the diverse landscapes of lakes, bogs, and ponds, you can explore a restored 19th-century schoolhouse, an outdoor amphitheater, and beautiful Hosta and Victory Gardens. It's a wonderful place to reconnect with nature and learn about the local environment, offering a rich experience for all ages.
1
hikers
1.50km
00:23
10m
10m
The Katherine Abbott Park Loop offers a delightful, easy stroll through varied natural scenery, perfect for a quick outdoor break. You'll meander past peaceful ponds and under mature trees, with lush greenery and open meadows providing a serene backdrop. The 0.9-mile (1.5 km) route, with only 22 feet (7 metres) of elevation gain, is a gentle walk that takes about 23 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing outing.
This trail is very accessible, with free parking available right at Katherine Abbott Park. It's a dog-friendly park, so your leashed canine companion can join you. The park is enjoyable in any season, whether you're admiring vibrant fall foliage, serene winter snowscapes, or the fresh blooms of spring and summer. Amenities like an ADA accessible park center with restrooms are also on hand.
Nestled in Mahtomedi, this loop provides a tranquil natural haven despite its urban setting. The park's 76 acres feature diverse terrain, including rolling hills, and you can even spot glimpses of Long Lake across the street. It's a great option for birdwatching, picnicking, or simply enjoying a moment of peace away from the city bustle.
Sign up for free
12.2km
03:07
50m
60m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Bruce Vento and Gateway Trails, a 7.6-mile (12.2 km) route that guides you through a mix of urban, suburban, and natural environments. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 154 feet (47 metres) over approximately 3 hours and 7 minutes. As you walk, you can enjoy glimpses of Lake Phalen through the trees and wander into the scenic ravine of Swede Hollow Park, offering a refreshing change of scenery. The trail provides a diverse journey, transitioning smoothly between different landscapes.
This route primarily follows paved, multi-use paths, making it accessible for a wide range of hikers. You will find convenient amenities such as parking, restrooms, and water fountains located along the Gateway Trail section. Be mindful that the trail includes several street crossings, so remain alert for traffic when navigating these intersections. Planning your visit during daylight hours is recommended to fully appreciate the varied scenery.
Beyond the natural beauty, the trail also connects you with significant historical points of interest. You will encounter landmarks like the Seventh Street Improvement Arches, showcasing engineering from a bygone era. The route also passes through the Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary, an area rich in both natural features and historical significance. This blend of urban history and natural respite makes the trail a unique exploration within the region.
4.4
(5)
47
hikers
6.00km
01:31
20m
10m
This easy 3.7-mile (6.0 km) hike around Lake Phalen offers continuous water views and a relaxing outdoor experience. You will gain a gentle 50 feet (15 metres) in elevation, taking about 1 hour and 31 minutes to complete the loop. As you follow the paved path, you will see pleasant neighborhoods across the lake, along with trees, wildflowers, and graceful weeping willows. Keep an eye out for a serene waterfall along the way, adding to the peaceful atmosphere.
The Lake Phalen Trail is conveniently located within Phalen Regional Park, making it easy to access. You will find ample parking available, ensuring a smooth start to your hike. The park also provides restrooms and picnic shelters, perfect for a break or a meal. Consider extending your visit by enjoying the park's beach or fishing pier, which are great options before or after your walk.
Beyond the scenic loop, the area around Lake Phalen is a haven for birdwatchers. You might spot various species like goldeneyes and trumpeter swans, especially if you visit during migration season. The trail also offers a unique cultural touch with the Xiang Jiang Pavilion, nestled within the China Friendship Garden, providing a distinctive landmark to enjoy.
2
hikers
3.02km
00:47
10m
10m
This easy 1.9-mile loop around Beaver Lake in Saint Paul offers serene water views, birdwatching, and peaceful woodland paths.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Lake Phalen drains into the Mississippi River via Phalen Creek, and it is the centerpiece of Phalen Regional Park. The lake is popular with all sorts of water sports enthusiasts and one of the highlights is the annual Dragon Boat Festival which takes place each July.
0
0
Beaver Lake sits in the park of the same name in eastern Saint Paul. The area hosts a walking trail that encircles the lake and several other amenities such as picnic shelters, a playground, fishing piers, and more.
0
0
Keller Creek flows from Keller Lake, through Round Lake to the larger Lake Phalen. This is a pretty spot right off of Gateway State Trail, which is a popular multi-use trail, to pause and look for wildlife along the creek.
0
0
Beaver Lake sits in the park of the same name in eastern Saint Paul. The area hosts a walking trail that encircles the lake and several other amenities, such as picnic shelters, a playground, fishing piers, and more.
0
0
Lake Phalen drains into the Mississippi River via Phalen Creek and it is the centerpiece of Phalen Regional Park. The lake is popular with all sorts of water sports enthusiasts and one of the highlights is the annual Dragon Boat Festival which take place each July.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in North St. Paul?
North St. Paul offers a good selection of hiking opportunities, with over 30 trails documented on komoot. Most of these routes are considered easy, making them accessible for a wide range of hikers.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in North St. Paul?
Yes, North St. Paul is well-suited for easy hikes. Out of the over 30 trails available, 28 are rated as easy. Many of these routes are found within the city's 14 parks and nature preserves, offering gentle terrain. For example, the Beaver Lake County Park loop is an easy 1.9-mile trail perfect for a relaxed outing.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around North St. Paul?
The hiking terrain in North St. Paul is quite varied, ranging from paved paths along the Gateway State Trail to natural walking trails within its nature preserves. You'll find routes circling recreational lakes and paths through wetland restoration areas like the Urban Ecology Center, which features a boardwalk.
Are there any circular routes available for hiking in North St. Paul?
Yes, many of the trails in North St. Paul are designed as loops, providing convenient circular routes. Examples include the popular Lake Phalen loop and the Battle Creek Winthrop Recreation Area loop, both offering scenic walks that bring you back to your starting point.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while hiking in North St. Paul?
Hikers in North St. Paul can explore several natural features and landmarks. The area is home to recreational lakes like Casey Lake and Silver Lake, as well as significant green spaces such as the Southwood Nature Preserve and the Urban Ecology Center, which is a wetland restoration project with a boardwalk. You can also visit Lake Phalen and Battle Creek Regional Park, which are popular attractions.
Is North St. Paul a good place for wildlife spotting during a hike?
Yes, North St. Paul offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, particularly in its nature preserves and wetland areas. The Urban Ecology Center, for instance, is a valuable wildlife habitat where native plant communities thrive, making it a good spot to observe local flora and fauna.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in North St. Paul?
The hiking routes in North St. Paul are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the accessibility of the trails, the variety of landscapes from paved paths to natural preserves, and the scenic beauty of the lakes and green spaces.
Are there any specific parks or nature preserves worth exploring for hiking in North St. Paul?
Absolutely. North St. Paul boasts 14 parks and three nature preserves. Key areas include the Southwood Nature Preserve and the Urban Ecology Center, known for their wetland restoration efforts and walking trails. The Gateway State Trail is also a prominent feature, passing directly through the city and connecting to a broader network.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in North St. Paul?
While specific seasonal details aren't provided, the diverse park system and trails around North St. Paul, including the Gateway State Trail and various lake loops, suggest that hiking is enjoyable across multiple seasons. Spring and fall would likely offer pleasant temperatures and scenic views, while summer provides lush greenery. Winter hiking might be possible on cleared paths, but conditions would vary.
Are there options for longer hiking excursions near North St. Paul?
While many local routes are shorter, the Gateway State Trail, which passes through North St. Paul, connects to a broader network of trails in the region. This allows for longer excursions by linking up with other segments, extending your hiking possibilities beyond the immediate city limits.
Where can I find more information about parks and recreation in the wider Saint Paul area?
For more comprehensive information about parks and recreation facilities in the broader Saint Paul area, including North St. Paul, you can visit the official city website: stpaul.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation.
Most popular attractions around North St. Paul
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
