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New Brighton

Top 3 Natural Monuments around New Brighton

Best natural monuments around New Brighton, Minnesota, are characterized by a glacial landscape featuring numerous lakes and rivers. The area's topography, including many lakes and wetlands, was shaped by glaciers that receded about 12,000 years ago. These natural areas offer opportunities for hiking, nature observation, and understanding the region's geological history. The Mississippi River plays a significant role in the local natural environment, providing scenic views and diverse ecosystems.

Best natural monuments around New Brighton

  • The most popular natural monuments is Gold Medal Hill, a viewpoint that offers a view over the Mississippi and Minneapolis. This small hill is also accessible by bike.
  • Another must-see spot is North Mississippi Regional Park, a river park with a pleasant walking path. This 67-acre park provides serene views of the Mississippi River and enhanced bird habitats.
  • Visitors also love Islands of Peace, an 8-acre park consisting of three islands in the Mississippi River. Chase Island is accessible on foot, offering a peaceful experience with mature maple-basswood trees.
  • New Brighton is known for its river views, forested areas, and family-friendly parks. The region offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, including viewpoints and trails along the Mississippi River.
  • The natural monuments around New Brighton are appreciated by the komoot community, with 11 upvotes and 5 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: September 29, 2026

Gold Medal Hill

Highlight • Viewpoint

A small hill with a beautiful view over the Mississippi and Minneapolis. You can also go up by bike.

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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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This 67-acre park offers a picnic area, wading pool, and a pleasant walking path. As part of the Urban Bird Treaty, the park has been enhanced with the addition of native plants to create a more welcoming bird habitat. With serene views of the Mississippi River, it's a peaceful place for a hike.

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The Mississippi River begins in Minnesota at Lake Itasca and flows 2,348 miles to the Gulf of Mexico. This particular spot offers close-up views of the usually calm water, providing a peaceful place to take a break.

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Tips from the Community

Tyler Sanders
June 23, 2025, Islands of Peace

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 Mississippi River begins in Minnesota at Lake Itasca and flows 2,348 miles to the Gulf of Mexico. This particular spot offers close-up views of the usually calm water, providing a peaceful place to take a break.

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North Mississippi Regional Park is a long-reaching park along the Mississippi River. There are bike paths that travel the length of the park and offer great views of the river, bridges, islands, and dense woods. If you hop off your bike and sit by the riverside, you may just encounter some of the park's beaver population or spot some unique birds.

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This 67-acre park offers a picnic area, wading pool, and a pleasant walking path. As part of the Urban Bird Treaty, the park has been enhanced with the addition of native plants to create a more welcoming bird habitat. With serene views of the Mississippi River, it's a peaceful place for a hike.

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A small hill with a beautiful view over the Mississippi and Minneapolis. You can also go up by bike.

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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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Liz
October 3, 2021, Islands of Peace

"Where Peace Is A Way of Life Every Hour of Every Day for All Those Willing to Share the Experience" -- Edward T. Wilmes, founder, 1971. The park's three islands spotlight a mature forest of maple-basswood trees. The wide walking bridge leads from the shoreline to Chase Island but the other two islands -- Durnham and Gil Hodges -- are accessible only by water. Durnham Island, which is the largest of the three islands is straight west of Chase Island and can be seen across the channel. The third island, Gil Hodges, is the farthest upstream island. Today, Islands of Peace is part of the Anoka County Riverfront Regional Park, which is just south of I-694 and offers another 78 1/2 acres. - National Park Service

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which natural monuments around New Brighton are suitable for families?

Several natural monuments in the New Brighton, Minnesota area are family-friendly. Gold Medal Hill offers a beautiful view that can be enjoyed by all ages. Islands of Peace features a walking bridge to Chase Island and a peaceful environment. North Mississippi Regional Park provides picnic areas, a wading pool, and pleasant walking paths, making it ideal for a family outing.

Are there dog-friendly natural monuments in the area?

Yes, if you're visiting with your dog, Islands of Peace and North Mississippi Regional Park are both listed as dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is leashed and you clean up after them to maintain the natural beauty for all visitors.

What kind of hiking trails can I find near these natural monuments?

The New Brighton area, shaped by glacial landscapes, offers a variety of hiking trails. You can find easy loops like the Locke County Park Loop and Rice Creek Loop Trail, or more moderate options such as the Rice Creek West Regional Trail. Many trails offer views of the Mississippi River and pass through forested areas. For more detailed routes, check out the Hiking around New Brighton guide.

What geological features are prominent in New Brighton, Minnesota?

New Brighton, Minnesota, is characterized by its glacial landscape. The area's numerous lakes and wetlands, including Long Lake, were formed by glaciers that receded about 12,000 years ago. The Mississippi River, which flows through the region, is also a significant natural feature, offering close-up views at spots like View of the Mississippi River.

What outdoor activities are available near the natural monuments?

Beyond exploring the natural monuments themselves, the area around New Brighton, Minnesota, is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy road cycling on routes like the North Lakes loop, or traffic-free bike rides such as the Rice Creek Regional Trail Loop. The Mississippi River also provides opportunities for nature observation. Discover more routes in the Road Cycling Routes around New Brighton and Traffic-free bike rides around New Brighton guides.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

The natural areas around New Brighton, Minnesota, are home to diverse wildlife. At North Mississippi Regional Park, you might spot beavers or various bird species, especially since the park has enhanced its habitat with native plants. The forested areas and wetlands also support a range of local flora and fauna.

Are there any viewpoints offering scenic vistas?

Yes, the region offers several excellent viewpoints. Gold Medal Hill provides a beautiful panoramic view over the Mississippi River and Minneapolis. Additionally, Islands of Peace and North Mississippi Regional Park offer serene views of the Mississippi River and its surroundings.

What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in New Brighton?

Visitors frequently highlight the peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty. Many appreciate the well-maintained paths and the opportunity for quiet reflection, especially at places like Islands of Peace, which is described as very peaceful with excellent pavement and walkways. The serene views of the Mississippi River are also a common favorite.

Are there any natural monuments that are particularly easy to access or have paved paths?

Yes, Islands of Peace is noted for its excellent pavement and walkways, making it easily accessible. North Mississippi Regional Park also features pleasant walking paths. Long Lake Regional Park, while not a highlight in this guide, is known for its paved paths through natural areas, offering easy access for various activities.

What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments in New Brighton, Minnesota?

The natural monuments in New Brighton, Minnesota, can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a unique experience. Summer is popular for recreational activities around lakes and parks. Fall brings beautiful foliage, while spring offers fresh greenery and active wildlife. Winter provides opportunities for peaceful walks in a snowy landscape, though some paths may be less accessible.

Can I cycle to or within these natural monuments?

Yes, cycling is a popular way to explore the area. Gold Medal Hill is accessible by bike, and North Mississippi Regional Park features bike paths that run the length of the park, offering great views. The region also has dedicated traffic-free bike routes, such as the Rice Creek Regional Trail Loop. For more cycling options, refer to the Traffic-free bike rides around New Brighton guide.

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