Rice Creek North Regional Trail

The trail connects several cities, so there are multiple access points. It begins in the expansive Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park, which offers various parking options. While specific parking lots aren't detailed, look for designated parking areas within the park or near the trailheads in the cities it traverses, such as Lino Lakes, Circle Pines, Blaine, Shoreview, and Arden Hills.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. There's even a large, popular off-leash dog park located near Lexington Avenue, providing a great spot for your canine companions to enjoy. Always ensure your dog is under control and follow any posted leash regulations on the main trail.

The trail offers diverse experiences throughout the year. In warmer months, you might spot butterflies in grassy areas. The low winter sun casting long shadows through the stand of tall red pine trees is particularly striking. Consider visiting in spring for fresh greenery and wildlife, or in autumn for vibrant fall colors. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

The trail itself does not typically require permits or entrance fees for use. However, since it begins in the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park, it's advisable to check if any specific activities or parking within the park require a permit or fee, especially for longer stays or certain facilities.

The trail features a generally easy to moderate experience on a paved path. You'll encounter low-to-moderate rolling hills, making it accessible for various users. Some sections have been recently resurfaced, ensuring a smooth and well-maintained surface for hiking, jogging, or biking.

You can expect a diverse visual experience, as the trail winds through restored prairies, mesic woodlands, and riparian marsh, offering views of Rice Creek and its associated waterways. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, ospreys, kestrels, and bluebirds. Butterflies are also common in grassy areas during warmer months. A notable scenic highlight is a stand of tall red pine trees.

Yes, the Rice Creek North Regional Trail is a crucial connector. It links five cities and provides access to other regional and local trails, including the East Anoka County Regional Trail and the Rice Creek West Regional Trail. The route also passes through sections of the Rice Creek Parkway and the Rice Creek Trail, Twin City Army Ammunition Plant.

Beyond the diverse natural landscapes, the trail offers access to Rice Creek for paddling activities. You can also explore multiple spur trails, including a picturesque footbridge over Rice Creek. Don't miss the striking stand of tall red pine trees, especially beautiful in the winter sun.

Given its generally easy to moderate difficulty and paved surface with low-to-moderate rolling hills, the trail is very suitable for beginners and families. Its length can offer a good workout, but shorter sections are easily accessible for a more leisurely experience.

As the trail traverses through several cities, you'll find a mix of natural settings and suburban areas. This means various amenities like cafes, pubs, restaurants, and accommodation options are available in the nearby cities of Lino Lakes, Circle Pines, Blaine, Shoreview, and Arden Hills. There's also a large, popular off-leash dog park near Lexington Avenue.

The Rice Creek North Regional Trail itself is a linear path, extending for 13.8 miles. However, specific routes or tours, like the one highlighted on komoot, can be designed as loops utilizing sections of the trail and connecting paths, offering a varied experience.