St. Paul to White Bear Lake loop

For touring cyclists, the St. Paul to White Bear Lake loop generally takes around 3.5 to 4 hours to complete at a moderate pace. This estimate is for the 57 km (35.5 miles) route itself, not including stops for sightseeing or refreshments.

Yes, the majority of this route is very suitable for beginners and families. It primarily uses converted rail beds like the Gateway State Trail and Bruce Vento Regional Trail, which are largely flat and paved. While the overall difficulty is rated 'moderate' due to its length, the terrain itself is generally easy. Be aware that some parts of the Lake Links Trail around White Bear Lake are shared with quiet neighborhood roads.

You can start this loop from various points. A common starting point in St. Paul is near Harriet Island Regional Park, which offers parking. Another good option is to access the Gateway State Trail or Bruce Vento Regional Trail from their respective trailheads in St. Paul or near White Bear Lake, where dedicated parking lots are available.

The terrain is predominantly flat and paved, as much of the route follows former railroad beds. You'll encounter smooth asphalt surfaces on trails like the Gateway State Trail, Bruce Vento Regional Trail, and Brown's Creek State Trail. The Lake Links Trail around White Bear Lake is also mostly paved, though some sections share quiet neighborhood roads. If you extend the loop to include the St. Croix River Crossing, be prepared for a steep 8% grade for half a mile on the Wisconsin side.

The route offers diverse scenery, transitioning from urban landscapes to rural settings. You'll cycle through forests, wetlands, and farmland. Key natural features include views of Lake Phalen and refreshing lakeside breezes along the White Bear Lake County Beach section. The Brown's Creek State Trail is particularly scenic, winding through woodlands and alongside a dedicated trout stream.

The best time to cycle this loop is from spring through autumn. Spring offers woodland wildflowers, summer provides shaded routes, and autumn showcases dramatic foliage. The trails are well-maintained, but winter conditions can bring snow and ice, making cycling more challenging.

Yes, the route passes several points of interest. You'll see historic rail-to-trail conversions, old train bridges, and underpasses. The Bruce Vento Trail skirts Lake Phalen and passes through Swede Hollow Park, an area rich in immigrant history. If you connect to Stillwater via the Brown's Creek State Trail, you can explore its historic downtown and the St. Croix River.

This loop is a combination of several interconnected regional trails. The primary components include the Gateway State Trail, the Bruce Vento Regional Trail, the Brown's Creek State Trail, and the Lake Links Trail around White Bear Lake. Other official trails you might encounter include the Saint Paul Grand Round, Streetcar Trail, and Capital City Bikeway.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the multi-use trails that form this loop, such as the Gateway State Trail and Bruce Vento Regional Trail. Always keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users.

No, you do not need any special permits or passes to cycle the St. Paul to White Bear Lake loop. The trails are publicly accessible and do not require a fee for use. However, some regional parks along the route may require a vehicle permit for parking, so check specific park websites if you plan to park within one.

Yes, there are several opportunities for refreshments. The route passes through or near urban areas and towns like White Bear Lake and Stillwater (if you extend the route), which offer cafes, restaurants, and pubs. Many trailheads and parks also feature amenities like picnic tables and water fountains.

While the Gateway State Trail is a significant part of this loop, the 'St. Paul to White Bear Lake loop' offers a more comprehensive and varied cycling experience. It connects the Gateway State Trail with the Bruce Vento Regional Trail and the scenic Lake Links Trail around White Bear Lake, creating a full circuit. This allows you to experience a wider range of landscapes and attractions than just an out-and-back on the Gateway Trail alone.