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Routes
Gravel rides
United States
Minnesota
Dakota County

Eagan

The best gravel rides around Eagan

4.8

(5)

44

riders

9

rides

Gravel biking around Eagan offers diverse landscapes, characterized by the Minnesota River Valley and its bluffs, along with extensive multi-use trail networks. The region features varied terrain, including dense forests, rolling prairies, and scenic lakeshores, particularly within Lebanon Hills Regional Park. Agricultural areas interspersed with gravel roads provide additional riding opportunities. These natural features create a varied environment for gravel cycling.

Best gravel bike trails around Eagan

  • The most popular gravel bike trail is View of the Minnesota River – Hand-Pulled Bike Ferry loop from Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, a 21.5 miles (34.6 km) trail that takes 3 hours 6 minutes to complete. This route features views of the Minnesota River and includes a hand-pulled bike ferry crossing.
  • Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is View of the Minnesota River – Old Cedar Avenue Bridge loop from 16 Av S, an easy 10.1 miles (16.3 km) path. This trail offers views of the Minnesota River and passes by the historic Old Cedar Avenue Bridge.
  • Local gravel bikers also love the View of the Minnesota River – Old Cedar Avenue Bridge loop from Bloomington Central, a 15.0 miles (24.1 km) trail leading through the Minnesota River Valley, often completed in about 1 hour 59 minutes.
  • Gravel biking around Eagan is defined by the Minnesota River Valley, its bluffs, and the varied terrain of Lebanon Hills Regional Park, including forests and prairies. The network offers options for both easy and moderate ability levels.
  • The routes in Eagan are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 5 reviews. More than 50 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Eagan's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 16, 2026

7

riders

#1.

View of the Minnesota River – Hand-Pulled Bike Ferry loop from Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge

34.6km

03:06

110m

110m

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Popular around Eagan

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Tips from the Community

tcbscott
May 8, 2026, Self use rope "ferry" across Nine Mile Creek

The "Ferry" looks upgraded, as does the new bridge across fallen trees. Both options were not what I needed at my turn around point today, but I finally made it here from the West today! Woohoo!

1

0

The bridge made over fallen trees looked more less scary today, as it was just a foot or so above the water. Still looks a little scary, I didn't cross.

1

0

They have also added a "bridge" made out of a fallen tree with planks nailed to it and a rope "hand-rail". Looks challenging, but I think the water is too low to get the ferry across right now.

2

0

There is now a "bridge" made out of a fallen tree with planks nailed to it and a rope hand rail.

2

0

Paved path, single track mountain bike trails, lots of ways to explore!

1

0

The Old Cedar Avenue Bridge has wide views of the Minnesota River. It's a popular spot for birdwatching—herons, egrets, and other wildlife are often seen here. The bridge connects to trails in the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, making it a good detour or rest point during a longer ride.

1

0

Clara
April 29, 2025, Black Dog Lake

pleasant ride minimal hills great view of the MN river

0

0

Alex
January 13, 2025, Black Dog Lake

Black Dog Lake is a beautiful area surrounded by woods and trails and was historically used for cooling water heated for making electrical power at Black Dog Generating Station. It is a floodplain lake that has complex ecosystems and, when experiencing flooding, spreads water, sediment, and aquatic life.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many gravel bike trails are available in the Eagan area?

There are over 10 gravel bike trails around Eagan, offering a mix of easy and moderate routes. The region's diverse landscape, including the Minnesota River Valley and Lebanon Hills Regional Park, provides varied terrain for gravel cycling.

What kind of terrain can I expect on Eagan's gravel bike trails?

Eagan's gravel trails feature diverse terrain, from the dense forests, scenic lakeshores, and rolling prairies of Lebanon Hills Regional Park to the agricultural areas with long stretches of gravel roads in the Minnesota River Valley. The View of the Minnesota River – Hand-Pulled Bike Ferry loop, for example, offers varied surfaces along the river.

Are there any family-friendly gravel biking options in Eagan?

Yes, Eagan offers several family-friendly options. Parks like Blackhawk Park feature trails suitable for walking and biking, alongside other amenities. The View of the Minnesota River – Old Cedar Avenue Bridge loop from 16 Av S is an easy 10.1-mile path that's great for a relaxed family ride.

What are some notable landmarks or natural features I might see along the trails?

Many routes offer views of the Minnesota River Valley. You can also pass by the historic Old Cedar Avenue Bridge, as seen on the View of the Minnesota River – Old Cedar Avenue Bridge loop from Bloomington Central. Other highlights include Observation Platform on Black Dog Lake and various lakes like Jensen Lake and Pickerel Lake.

What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about Eagan's trails?

The Eagan area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the scenic views of the Minnesota River, and the well-maintained multi-use trail networks that cater to various skill levels.

Are there any trails that feature unique attractions like a hand-pulled bike ferry?

Yes, the View of the Minnesota River – Hand-Pulled Bike Ferry loop from Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a popular 21.5-mile route that includes a unique hand-pulled bike ferry crossing, offering a memorable experience.

Can I find trails with views of the Mississippi River near Eagan?

While Eagan is primarily known for its Minnesota River Valley trails, you can find viewpoints of the Mississippi River in nearby areas. For instance, the View of the Mississippi River highlight is accessible from some routes in the broader region.

What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Eagan?

Eagan offers gravel biking opportunities year-round. While spring, summer, and fall provide pleasant conditions for exploring the diverse landscapes and fall foliage, the city also performs snow removal on some multi-use trails in winter, making them accessible even in colder months.

Are there any circular gravel routes in Eagan?

Yes, many of Eagan's gravel routes are designed as loops. Examples include the View of the Minnesota River – Old Cedar Avenue Bridge loop from 16 Av S and the Hidden Falls Creek – Fort Snelling Scenic Overlook loop from 46th Street, which offer convenient circular paths for riders.

Where can I find parking for gravel bike trails in Eagan?

Parking is generally available at various trailheads and parks throughout Eagan. Lebanon Hills Regional Park, a major hub for outdoor activities, has a visitor center with parking facilities. Many other parks and trail access points also offer designated parking areas.

Are there any easy gravel routes suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. Eagan has several easy gravel routes perfect for beginners. The View of the Minnesota River – Old Cedar Avenue Bridge loop from 16 Av S is an easy 10.1-mile path, and the View of the Minnesota River – Old Cedar Avenue Bridge loop from Bloomington Central is another accessible 15-mile option.

Can I find trails that offer a mix of paved and natural surfaces?

Yes, the region's extensive trail network often features a mix of surfaces. The Minnesota River Bluffs LRT Regional Trail, for example, is generally crushed limestone (gravel) in Hennepin County but transitions to asphalt in Carver County, providing variety. Trapp Farm Park also offers a mix of paved and natural trails.

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