Mississippi River Greenway

Yes, the Mississippi River Greenway is largely considered easy and very suitable for beginners and families. Many sections are paved, multi-use, and relatively flat, making them accessible for various ages and abilities. While some parts might have slight inclines or curves, the overall difficulty for hiking is low.

The terrain primarily features paved, multi-use trails, ideal for walking, bicycling, and inline skating. Most sections are relatively flat, but some parts may include curves and small hills. You'll traverse through a mix of wooded ravines, urban areas, and parklands. While predominantly paved, some areas might offer unpaved sections, though these are generally more challenging and geared towards experienced mountain bikers rather than casual hikers.

A major highlight is the abundance of scenic views of the Mississippi River, often paralleling the waterway. You can observe river activity, including barges and tugboats. The trail passes through areas with bottomland trees like cottonwoods and silver maples, wetlands home to great blue herons and egrets, and opportunities to see wildflowers. Some sections also offer views of bluffs and thick woods.

Yes, along the route, you can find several points of interest. These include the Lock and Dam on the Mississippi River and a scenic View of Lake Rebecca. Additionally, historical elements like those at Jefferson Barracks Park and unique features such as swing bridges over the Mississippi River can be found in various sections.

Parking and trailheads are commonly available along the extensive network of the Mississippi River Greenway. Many sections connect to local parks such as Cliff Cave Park, Jefferson Barracks Park, Kaposia Landing Park, and Spring Lake Park Reserve, which typically offer designated parking areas. Restrooms and picnic shelters are also often found at these access points.

Generally, dogs are allowed on the Mississippi River Greenway. However, specific leash rules and regulations may vary slightly depending on the park or municipality a particular section of the greenway passes through. It's always best to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for all users.

No, you typically do not need any permits or have to pay entrance fees to hike the Mississippi River Greenway itself. It is a public multi-use trail. However, if you access the greenway through certain regional or state parks, there might be park-specific entrance fees or parking permits required for those particular areas.

The Mississippi River Greenway can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to hike depends on your preferences. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Mid to late summer provides opportunities to see wildflowers. While winter hiking is possible, be prepared for colder conditions and potential snow or ice on the trails.

The trail offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly birds. You might spot great blue herons and egrets in wetland areas, along with other birds, turtles, and various small animals. The plant life includes bottomland trees like cottonwoods and silver maples, and in summer, you can often see wildflowers.

Yes, the Mississippi River Greenway is part of a larger network and connects with several other trails. The route also passes through sections of the Mississippi River Trail (Minnesota), United States Bicycle Route 20 (Minnesota), and United States Bicycle Route 45.

The greenway is notable for its multi-use design, connecting numerous parks like Cliff Cave Park and Jefferson Barracks Park. Amenities such as restrooms, picnic shelters, and scenic overlooks are commonly available. Unique features include swing bridges that extend over the Mississippi River, offering excellent viewing points, and in some urban segments, unique views of industrial landscapes.