Battle Creek Regional Park to White Bear Lake loop

This road cycling loop is approximately 53.3 kilometers (33.1 miles) long. On average, cyclists can expect to complete it in about 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on their pace and stops.

The route is rated as moderate. You'll encounter paved trails with plenty of ups and downs, especially within Battle Creek Regional Park, where there's a challenging section with a 200-foot elevation gain when heading eastbound. While some sections like the Battle Creek Regional Trail are well-maintained, parts of the route, such as the Birch Lake Trail near White Bear Lake, may have below-average pavement conditions and parallel moderately busy roads.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle on the public trails and roads that make up this route. However, if you plan to park your vehicle in certain regional parks, a parking permit might be necessary. Always check local Ramsey County Parks regulations for the most current information.

The best times to cycle this route are typically spring, summer, and fall. During these seasons, the weather is generally pleasant, and the trails are clear of snow and ice. Fall offers beautiful foliage, especially in the wooded sections of Battle Creek Regional Park.

Within Battle Creek Regional Park, you'll cycle through a steep oak-wooded valley, offering opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and eagles, and observe exposed limestone cliffs. The park itself features diverse forest, prairie, and wetlands. As you approach White Bear Lake, the scenery shifts to more suburban and lakeside views, with highlights like White Bear Lake County Beach.

Yes, this route utilizes and connects with several established trails. Significant portions of the ride are on the Gateway State Trail and the McKnight Bikeway. You'll also encounter sections of the Lake Links Trail, Battle Creek Regional Trail, and the Mississippi River Trail (Minnesota).

Given its moderate difficulty, distance of over 50 km, and sections with elevation changes and potentially busy road parallels, this loop is generally better suited for experienced road cyclists. While parts of Battle Creek Regional Park have family-friendly paved trails, the full loop connecting to White Bear Lake might be too challenging for younger children or beginner cyclists.

You can typically find parking within Battle Creek Regional Park itself, which offers extensive multi-use paved trail networks. Look for designated parking areas within the park. Always check for any required parking permits or fees at the specific lot you choose.

Many regional parks and trails in Minnesota, including those in Ramsey County, are dog-friendly. However, dogs are almost always required to be on a leash. Always check specific signage at trailheads or park websites for the most current regulations regarding pets on the trails you plan to use.

Yes, within Battle Creek Regional Park, you can see the ruins of the old Battle Creek Ski Jump, which was once one of the largest in the world. The route also passes by Beaver Lake and connects to the Gateway State Trail, offering various scenic views and natural features.

For this moderate road cycling loop, you should bring plenty of water, snacks, a repair kit (including a spare tube and pump), and appropriate cycling gear. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a helmet are essential. Consider bringing a phone for navigation and emergencies, as well as a light jacket for changing weather conditions.