The best traffic-free bike rides in Mississippi National River And Recreation Area

There are several dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails within the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. Our guide features 4 routes, ranging from easy to moderate, ensuring a car-free experience along the scenic river.

The gravel biking opportunities in the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area offer varied terrain. You can expect a mix of paved, limestone aggregate, and packed gravel surfaces, suitable for different skill levels. The trails often wind through diverse landscapes including restored prairie oak savannahs, wetlands, and bottomland hardwood forests.

Yes, there are family-friendly options. For an easier ride, consider the View of the Minnesota River – Old Cedar Avenue Bridge loop from Bloomington Central, which is just over 24 km and has minimal elevation gain. Another easy option is the View of the Minnesota River – Old Cedar Avenue Bridge loop from 16 Av S, a shorter 16 km loop perfect for a relaxed outing.

The area is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You might encounter limestone bluffs, prairie oak savannahs, and wetlands. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including migratory birds and bald eagles. Specific highlights include the stunning Minnehaha Falls and the significant Confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers. Many routes offer scenic riverine views.

For a more extensive ride, the Cedar Lake – Minnesota River Bluffs Trail loop from West 21st Street is a moderate 78.5 km route that offers a longer adventure. Another moderate option is the View of the Minnesota River – Old Cedar Avenue Bridge loop from 30th Avenue, spanning over 31 km.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular loops, designed to bring you back to your starting point. This includes options like the View of the Minnesota River – Hand-Pulled Bike Ferry loop from Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, which offers a unique experience.

The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area offers great biking opportunities across multiple seasons. While spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage, summer is also popular. Even in winter, the park transforms for activities like snowshoeing and skiing, though specific gravel trail conditions may vary.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Riders often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the trails, the diverse scenery, and the opportunity to spot wildlife along the Mississippi River.

Beyond the natural beauty, the area is rich with historical and recreational points. You can find lakes like Snelling Lake at Fort Snelling State Park and Pickerel Lake. Historical sites such as Indian Mounds Park also dot the landscape, offering places to explore off the bike.

The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area is a haven for wildlife. You might spot various animals, including fish and river otters, especially near the water. The park is also a crucial stop for millions of migratory birds along a major flyway, and bald eagles are a year-round sight, making for excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Yes, the View of the Minnesota River – Hand-Pulled Bike Ferry loop from Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge offers a distinctive experience. This moderate route includes a section where you can use a hand-pulled bike ferry, adding an adventurous and memorable element to your ride.