Easy hikes and walks in St. Louis County
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1,026
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Easy hiking trails in St. Louis County offer diverse landscapes shaped by significant rivers and extensive forests. The region features scenic bluffs overlooking waterways like the Meramec and Mississippi Rivers, alongside numerous woodlands and glades. This varied terrain provides a range of outdoor experiences, from gentle riverside paths to trails through forested areas.
Best easy hiking trails in St. Louis County
- The most popular easy hiking route is Elys Peak via Superior Hiking Trail, a 3.3 miles (5.3 km)…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
5.0
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4
hikers
5.30km
01:29
110m
90m
Embark on an easy hike along the Elys Peak via Superior Hiking Trail, a route that guides you through a mix of deciduous and pine forests. This 3.3-mile (5.3 km)…
2
hikers
7.12km
01:50
40m
40m
Embark on the Big Aspen Trail for an easy hiking experience through the Superior National Forest. This route spans 4.4 miles (7.1 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of…
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1
hikers
1.49km
00:23
10m
0m
Embark on an easy hike along The Lakewalk: Brighton Beach Park, a short and accessible route that offers continuous views of Lake Superior. This pleasant stroll covers 0.9 miles (1.5…
2.01km
00:36
60m
60m
Embark on the Ely's Peak Loop Trail for an easy 1.2 miles (2.0 km) hike through diverse landscapes, where you will gain 199 feet (61 metres) in elevation. The route…
2.47km
00:38
10m
20m
Embark on an easy hike along Waabizheshikana: The Marten Trail, a route that offers picturesque views of the St. Louis River. This trail is a gentle 1.5 miles (2.5 km)…
1.56km
00:24
20m
0m
Embark on an easy hike around the Pickerel Lake Loop, a 1.0-mile (1.6 km) path that takes you through diverse scenery. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 58…
742m
00:12
0m
10m
The Norberg Lake Loop offers you a true wilderness experience, winding through rugged and rocky terrain with rolling hills, roots, and larger rocks. You will hike among tall white and…
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31
hikers
4.90km
01:17
30m
30m
Embark on an easy hike along the Blind Ash Bay Trail, a 3.0-mile (4.9 km) route that winds through a vibrant boreal forest. You will gain a gentle 106 feet…
25
hikers
3.17km
00:56
90m
90m
Embark on an easy hike along the Chester Park Loop, a scenic route that follows the picturesque Chester Creek. You will encounter many waterfalls as the creek makes its way…
4.0
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17
hikers
5.15km
01:30
130m
130m
Embark on the Ely's Peak Loop Trail, an easy 3.2 miles (5.2 km) hike that takes about 1 hours and 29 minutes to complete. You will encounter a mix of…
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Popular around St. Louis County
Easy hikes around Duluth
Easy hikes in Voyageurs National Park
Easy hikes around Hermantown
Easy hikes around Proctor
Easy hikes in Bear Island State Forest
Easy hikes around Rice Lake
North Country Trail – 4,800 Miles along the edge of northern U.S.
Superior Hiking Trail — Where the forest meets the lake
Mesabi Trail — Riding Minnesota’s Iron Range
Easy hikes in St. Louis County
Tips from the Community
A flashlight on your helmet or bike will come in handy to avoid puddles on the trail.
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Although Minnesota enjoys a network of trails that span the entire state, the Superior Hiking Trail itself is 310 miles long, beginning at the Minnesota-Wisconsin border south of Duluth near Jay Cooke State Park and ending where it intersects the Border Route Trail just south of the US-Canadian border.
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route not known in kamoot map but you can cross to another trail at midway
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Blind Ash Bay, at the very tip of this lollipop loop trail before heading back, provides a post card view of Kabetogama Lake. Great for birding, this area is also frequented by deer and other wildlife.
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The tunnel through Ely’s Peak is a fascinating feature of the DWP Trail near Duluth. This 520-foot tunnel was carved more than a century ago for the mining industry and the railroad. Today, you can hike through the dark and spooky tunnel, or climb on the rocks around it.
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Ely’s Peak is a rewarding hike that offers spectacular views of Duluth and beyond. The trail is part of the Superior Hiking Trail, a network of trails that spans the entire length of Minnesota. You can enjoy the scenery of forests, wildflowers, and rock formations along the way. The hike is moderately challenging but suitable for most skill levels. Ely’s Peak is a great way to experience the beauty and history of Duluth.
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East Chester Creek Trail is a hidden gem in Duluth, Minnesota. This trail is part of the Superior Hiking Trail, a network of trails that spans the entire length of the state. The trail follows the creek for 1.5 miles, offering scenic views of the water and the forest. You’ll encounter some steep sections and rocky terrain, but nothing too difficult. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. East Chester Creek Trail is a great way to experience nature and adventure in Duluth. You can make a loop via West Chester Creek Trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in St. Louis County?
St. Louis County offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 60 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are nearly 100 hiking routes available in the region on komoot.
What kind of scenery can I expect on easy hikes in St. Louis County?
Easy hikes in St. Louis County showcase diverse landscapes. You'll find scenic bluffs overlooking the Meramec and Mississippi Rivers, extensive forested areas providing shaded paths, and natural glades. Many trails offer picturesque river views and opportunities to observe local wildlife.
Are there any easy loop trails in St. Louis County?
Yes, St. Louis County features several easy loop trails perfect for a relaxed outing. For example, the Ely's Peak Loop Trail is an easy 1.2-mile (2 km) path, and the Pickerel Lake Loop offers a pleasant 1-mile (1.6 km) walk around the lake.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in St. Louis County?
The easy trails in St. Louis County are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the varied terrain, beautiful river views, and the peaceful experience offered by the forested paths.
Are there any easy trails with waterfalls in St. Louis County?
While St. Louis County is known for its rivers and bluffs, you can find charming waterfalls within the region. Consider exploring areas like Congdon Park Waterfalls or Amity Creek and Falls for a chance to see cascading water features.
Which easy trails are suitable for families with children?
Many easy trails in St. Louis County are family-friendly. Parks like Babler State Park offer versatile trails suitable for various activities, including those for families. Look for shorter, flatter routes like The Lakewalk: Brighton Beach Park, which is less than a mile long and ideal for a quick stroll with kids.
Are dogs allowed on the easy hiking trails?
Many parks and trails in St. Louis County are dog-friendly, but policies can vary by specific location. It's always best to check the regulations for the particular park or trail you plan to visit. Generally, dogs are welcome on a leash on most public trails.
What are some short, easy hikes in St. Louis County?
For shorter, easy hikes, you have several options. The Lakewalk: Brighton Beach Park is a very short 0.9-mile (1.5 km) trail. Another option is the Norberg Lake Loop, which is just under half a mile (0.7 km) and takes about 10 minutes to complete.
Are there any easy trails with good viewpoints?
Absolutely. St. Louis County's geography, shaped by its rivers, offers several trails with excellent viewpoints. Trails like Elys Peak via Superior Hiking Trail provide rewarding views from elevated points. You can also find scenic bluffs overlooking the Meramec and Mississippi Rivers in parks like Cliff Cave County Park and Castlewood State Park.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on easy hikes?
St. Louis County's diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife. On easy hikes through forested areas and near waterways, you might spot deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species such as ducks, kingfishers, and herons. Shaw Nature Preserve, in particular, is known for its rich biodiversity.
Are there any accessible easy trails for wheelchairs or strollers?
While many trails are natural surfaces, some parks in St. Louis County offer paved or well-maintained gravel paths that are more accessible. Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park, for instance, features mostly flat loops around the lake, which can be suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Emmenegger Nature Park also has both paved and unpaved trails.
What is the best time of year to enjoy easy hikes in St. Louis County?
St. Louis County offers enjoyable hiking year-round, but spring and fall are particularly popular. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and lush greenery, while the fall foliage provides stunning colors. Summer offers shaded trails in the extensive woodlands, and even mild winter days can be pleasant for a quiet walk.
Most popular routes in St. Louis County
Most popular attractions in St. Louis County
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