The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Locke County Park
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Family friendly hiking trails in Locke County Park are characterized by a wooded oasis featuring mature trees and the meandering Rice Creek. The terrain includes both partially paved and natural dirt paths, with varied elevation changes, wetlands, and slight rolling hills. Hikers can experience the creek via footbridges, alongside its banks, and from elevated viewpoints. This diverse landscape provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Locke County Park
- The most popular family friendly hiking…
Last updated: May 30, 2026
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hikers
6.25km
01:36
20m
20m
Hike the easy 3.9-mile Islands of Peace Loop for accessible trails, mature forests, and scenic Mississippi River views.
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hikers
7.16km
01:51
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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18.8km
04:50
80m
100m
Hike the moderate 11.7-mile Rice Creek West Regional Trail in Anoka County, featuring varied terrain, scenic creek views, and birdwatching.
3.76km
00:58
10m
20m
Embark on an easy hike along the North Mississippi Park Loop, a route that offers refreshing views of the Mississippi River. This gentle trail spans 2.3 miles (3.8 km) and…
5.0
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5
hikers
2.23km
00:35
10m
10m
Embark on an easy hike around Silverwood Park, a gentle 1.4-mile (2.2 km) loop that takes approximately 34 minutes to complete. You'll experience a mix of mature woodlands, open prairies,…
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Tips from the Community
Manomin County Park covers 15 acres at the confluence of Rice Creek and the Mississippi River, hosting diverse wildlife, including various bird species such as Great Blue Heron. The park features the historic Banfill Tavern, home to the Banfill-Locke Center for the Arts, along with amenities like a picnic gazebo, benches, tables, and an observation deck. It's a popular spot for family gatherings, graduation parties, and weddings in summer, and offers shoreline fishing along both waterways.
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Long Lake Park is a popular park in St Paul. There are sandy beach areas and several trails to choose from within the park. There are also restrooms and picnic areas.
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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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Long Lake is the main feature and the namesake for the park that it's located in. The lake is a great spot for a refreshment in the summer and features meadows and sandy beach areas. While hiking along the trails in the area, make sure to enjoy the waterfront and have a nice break.
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Long Lake is in New Brighton, Minnesota. This large lake is a popular swimming spot in the summer; there is a large grassy park, a sandy beach, outdoor showers and bathrooms, a playground, and clear water. This is a great place to stop as you ride around the area.
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This park offers some beautiful walking and running trails along the Mississippi River — a nice break from bustling city life. There is also a picnic site and wading area a little farther north of here.
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This park is unique in its focus on providing a space for people to practice and appreciate the interaction between humans and the natural environment. The view of Silver Lake from the park island is absolutely stunning.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Locke County Park?
Locke County Park offers a great selection of family-friendly hiking trails, with over 20 routes specifically categorized as easy. This makes it simple to find a suitable adventure for all ages and skill levels.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for families in Locke County Park?
Yes, Locke County Park and its vicinity feature several easy loop trails perfect for families. For instance, you could explore the Long Lake Park loop from New Brighton, which is about 4.5 miles, or the shorter Silverwood Park loop. The park also features the scenic Rice Creek loop, a 2.3-mile trail following Rice Creek through wooded areas.
What kind of natural features can we expect to see on family hikes in Locke County Park?
Locke County Park is known as a 'wooded oasis' with mature trees and the meandering Rice Creek. Trails often run alongside the creek, cross it via footbridges, and offer views from above. You'll also encounter wetlands and slight rolling hills, providing a diverse and engaging natural environment for families to explore.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails in Locke County Park?
Yes, Locke County Park is very dog-friendly! In addition to many trails where leashed dogs are welcome, the park also features a fenced off-leash dog park, making it a great destination for the whole family, including your canine companions.
What is the typical duration for a family hike in Locke County Park?
The duration of a family hike can vary depending on the chosen trail and your pace. Many of the easy routes, like the 2.3-mile Rice Creek loop, typically take about an hour to complete. Other options, such as the Mississippi River Regional Trail: Islands of Peace Loop, are closer to 4 miles and might take a bit longer, offering flexibility for different family schedules.
Are there amenities like playgrounds or picnic areas available for families?
Absolutely! Locke County Park is well-equipped for family outings beyond just hiking. It includes a playground for children, picnic pavilions with shaded tables, and conveniently located restrooms near the trailheads, making it easy to spend a full day enjoying the outdoors.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Locke County Park?
The komoot community highly rates Locke County Park, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's well-maintained trails, the scenic beauty of Rice Creek, and the diverse terrain that includes both paved and natural paths. The park's family-friendly amenities and the presence of a dog park are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any longer regional trails that connect through Locke County Park?
Yes, the Rice Creek West Regional Trail runs through Locke County Park. While a 1.2-mile section within the park offers views of woods and wetlands, the longer regional trail extends for 4 miles, connecting to other points of interest and providing options for more extended family adventures.
Is there parking available at the trailheads in Locke County Park?
Yes, Locke County Park provides convenient parking options near its trailheads. This makes accessing the various family-friendly hiking routes straightforward and hassle-free for visitors arriving by car.
Can we find varied terrain on the family-friendly hikes, or are they all flat?
While many trails are easy, Locke County Park offers a good mix of terrain. You'll find both partially paved and natural dirt paths. Some sections, like a 1.5-mile loop mentioned by visitors, include gentle 'ups-and-downs' and slight rolling hills, providing variety without being overly strenuous for families.
Are there any other parks nearby that offer family-friendly hiking options?
Yes, in addition to Locke County Park, the surrounding area offers other great family-friendly hiking destinations. The Mississippi River Regional Trail: Islands of Peace Loop (3.9 miles) and the Long Lake Park loop (4.5 miles) are popular choices often mentioned alongside Locke County Park for their enjoyable outdoor experiences.
Most popular routes in Locke County Park
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