Ferndale Marsh – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from Wayzata
Ferndale Marsh – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from Wayzata
3.4
(25)
89
riders
Ferndale Marsh – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from Wayzata
01:24
27.2km
110m
Mountain biking
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 5, 2026
Tips
Temporary access restrictions
Includes segments with temporary access restrictions.
After 15.3 km for 221 m
Customers only
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
2.03 km
Ferndale Marsh
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
8.93 km
Dakota Rail Regional Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
10.7 km
Dakota Rail Regional Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
15.5 km
Back Channel Brewing
Highlight • Pub
Tip by
20.1 km
Dakota Rail Regional Trail – Minnetonka Beach Section
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
21.1 km
Arcola Trestle Bridge Over Lake Minnetonka
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
27.2 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
26.6 km
219 m
162 m
162 m
Surfaces
21.4 km
3.68 km
1.75 km
369 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 4 July
29°C
19°C
75 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a scenic, easy bike ride near Wayzata, the Ferndale Marsh – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop offers a pleasant outing, though it's important to know it's not a traditional mountain biking experience. This easy 16.9-mile (27.2 km) route, with a minimal 351 feet (107 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 24 minutes, making it perfect for casual cyclists, families, or anyone wanting a relaxed spin on a paved path rather than technical singletrack.
What to expect on Ferndale Marsh – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from Wayzata
This loop primarily utilizes the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, a beautifully maintained, paved path that follows a historic railroad bed. You'll enjoy gentle gradients and smooth asphalt, making for an effortless ride. The scenery is diverse and engaging, with spectacular views of Lake Minnetonka and Lake Waconia, alongside stretches through wetlands, wooded areas, and charming small towns. While the route name includes Ferndale Marsh, be aware that this natural area does not have maintained trails suitable for mountain biking; any loop incorporating it will likely involve riding on local roads or informal paths around its perimeter, maintaining the overall easy difficulty. This trail is best suited for those seeking a leisurely pedal with great views, not technical challenges.
Planning your visit
The Dakota Rail Regional Trail is generally accessible and well-suited for all skill levels. Given its paved nature, it's enjoyable in most seasons, though spring, summer, and fall offer the best conditions for comfortable riding. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for this loop. As the route is primarily on a multi-use trail, be mindful of other users, including walkers and inline skaters. Parking is typically available in Wayzata, though specific trailhead parking for this exact loop isn't detailed, so plan to use public parking areas in town.
Trail details
- Distance: 16.9 miles (27.2 km)
- Elevation gain: 351 feet (107 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 24 minutes
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