The best traffic-free bike rides around Little Canada
4.3
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1,567
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49
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No traffic touring cycling routes around Little Canada are characterized by a network of paved paths winding through a landscape dotted with numerous lakes and green spaces. The region, part of Ramsey County, Minnesota, offers generally flat to gently rolling terrain, making it accessible for various cycling abilities. Routes often feature scenic lakefront views and connections between local parks. The area's geography provides a pleasant environment for car-free cycling, focusing on natural beauty and community connectivity.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Little Canada
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is East & West Vadnais Lakes – Sucker Lake loop from Little Canada, an easy 13.1 miles (21.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 13 minutes to complete, offering serene lake views and minimal elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Matoska Park – Bellaire Beach loop from Ramsey County, a moderate 23.3 miles (37.5 km) path. This route features varied terrain around lakes and through park areas, providing a longer ride with some gentle ascents.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Keller Creek – Lake Phalen loop from Ramsey County, a 17.1 miles (27.5 km) trail leading through urban green spaces and along lake shores, often completed in about 1 hour 39 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Little Canada is defined by scenic lake loops, paved multi-use paths, and connections between local parks, with options available for easy family rides as well as more moderate distances.
- The routes in Little Canada are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 150 reviews. More than 1500 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Little Canada's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
5.0
(1)
7
riders
19.7km
01:11
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
17.1km
01:03
70m
70m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
37.4km
02:10
170m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
White Bear Lake is known as Bde Maṭo Ská by the Native Dakota people, and they were known for using the lake's island as a source for making Maple syrup. In his book "Life on the Mississippi" (1883) Mark Twain described the lake as such: "The White-bear Lake is less known. It is a lovely sheet of water, and is being utilized as a summer resort by the wealth and fashion of the State. It has its club-house, and its hotel, with the modern improvements and conveniences; its fine summer residences; and plenty of fishing, hunting, and pleasant drives. There are a dozen minor summer resorts around about St. Paul and Minneapolis, but the White-bear Lake is the resort."
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Saint Paul–Changsha China Friendship Garden is a beautiful scape with it's Chinese-style pavilions, koi pond, and lush plantings provide a calm, meditative backdrop. A perfect spot to pause, stretch, and take in the carefully designed landscape before continuing your journey.
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A small lake right off the bike path, Spoon Lake offers a nice view over the water with open space to pause, take a break, and spot wildlife. There are restrooms nearby, a kayak rental kiosk, and it’s also a popular spot for fishing.
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Matoska Park is a great little green park on the shore of White Bear Lake. The park has restrooms and picnic tables, as well as a great view of the water.
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Lake Phalen drains into the Mississippi River via Phalen Creek, and it is the centerpiece of Phalen Regional Park. The lake is popular with all sorts of water sports enthusiasts and one of the highlights is the annual Dragon Boat Festival which takes place each July.
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Gervais Lake is part of the Phalen Chain of Lakes, and flows in to Keller Lake via Spoon Lake. It's popular for swimming, kayaking, and boating with access from Spoon Lake and a county park, both on the south side of the lake.
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Keller Creek flows from Keller Lake, through Round Lake to the larger Lake Phalen. This is a pretty spot right off of Gateway State Trail, which is a popular multi-use trail, to pause and look for wildlife along the creek.
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Lake Phalen drains into the Mississippi River via Phalen Creek and it is the centerpiece of Phalen Regional Park. The lake is popular with all sorts of water sports enthusiasts and one of the highlights is the annual Dragon Boat Festival which take place each July.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many traffic-free touring cycling routes are available around Little Canada?
There are over 45 dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes around Little Canada, offering a wide variety of options for cyclists looking for peaceful rides away from cars.
Are there easy, family-friendly traffic-free routes in Little Canada?
Yes, a significant number of routes are classified as easy, making them perfect for families and beginners. For example, the East & West Vadnais Lakes – Sucker Lake loop from Little Canada is an excellent choice, offering a gentle ride around scenic lakes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic touring routes?
The traffic-free routes around Little Canada primarily feature paved multi-use paths and dedicated bike trails. These are generally flat or have gentle grades, making for comfortable touring cycling experiences.
Are there any circular traffic-free touring routes available?
Absolutely! Many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. The Keller Creek – Lake Phalen loop from Ramsey County is a great example of a circular route that takes you through scenic areas.
What are the average lengths of the traffic-free touring routes?
The routes vary in length, but many fall within the 20-40 km range. For instance, the Matoska Park – Bellaire Beach loop from Ramsey County is approximately 37 km, offering a good distance for a half-day tour.
What attractions can I see along the traffic-free touring cycling routes?
Many routes pass by beautiful natural and man-made attractions. You can cycle past serene lakes like Lake Phalen, Como Lake, and the East & West Vadnais Lakes. Some routes also offer views of facilities like Harriet Island Regional Park or unique monuments such as the Saint Paul-Changsha China Friendship Garden.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the traffic-free routes in Little Canada?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in this area, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free environment, the well-maintained paths, and the beautiful lakeside scenery that many routes offer.
Is there parking available near the starting points of these routes?
Yes, many of the traffic-free routes around Little Canada are accessible from parks and recreational areas that offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for parking information at the trailhead.
Can I access these routes using public transport?
While direct public transport access to every trailhead might vary, many routes are located within or near urban areas with public transport links. Planning your journey using local transit maps in conjunction with komoot's route planner can help identify the best access points.
What is the best time of year to cycle the traffic-free routes in Little Canada?
The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling, with mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. While some paths may be maintained in winter, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, so it's best to check local conditions if planning a winter ride.
Are there any less crowded traffic-free touring routes?
While popular routes can see more activity, especially on weekends, many of the 45+ routes offer a serene experience. Exploring routes slightly further from central hubs or opting for weekdays can often lead to a more secluded ride. Komoot's route details can sometimes indicate popularity.
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