Medicine Lake, Luce Line Regional Trail, and French Regional Park Loop

You can find parking at various points around Medicine Lake and within French Regional Park. French Regional Park, located on the north end of Medicine Lake, offers convenient access to the loop. There are also parking areas along the Medicine Lake Regional Trail and near the Luce Line Trail segments.

Yes, the trails within the Three Rivers Park District, including the Medicine Lake Regional Trail, Luce Line Regional Trail, and French Regional Park, are generally dog-friendly. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

This loop offers enjoyable experiences year-round. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. In summer, you can take advantage of the swimming beach at French Regional Park. Winter also offers opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on some sections, with certain areas being well-lit for night-time activities.

Generally, there are no specific permits required for hiking or biking on the Medicine Lake Regional Trail or the Luce Line Regional Trail segments within this loop. French Regional Park, part of the Three Rivers Park District, also typically does not require an entrance fee for trail use, though some specific activities or facilities within the park might have associated costs.

The loop features a diverse terrain, combining asphalt-paved bike trails with crushed limestone surfaces, especially on parts of the Luce Line Trail. Within French Regional Park and along Medicine Lake, you'll encounter flat sections, but also some hills, marshy areas, and bridges. Some paved sections can be bumpy due to tree roots. While generally accessible, the hills can provide a moderate workout.

The loop is approximately 11.4 kilometers (7.1 miles) long. For an average hiker, it typically takes around 2 hours and 56 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

You'll enjoy a rich variety of landscapes, including panoramic views of Medicine Lake, wooded areas, shady hardwood groves, and reedy marshlands. The route passes through several parks like French Regional Park, East Medicine Lake Park, and West Medicine Lake Park. Don't miss the West Medicine Lake Park Lakeside View and the Nice Medicine Lake View. There are also two notable boardwalks on the south end of Medicine Lake.

Keep an eye out for various wildlife along the loop. Hikers have reported spotting bald eagles, beavers, and otters, especially near Medicine Lake and in the marshy areas. The diverse habitats provide homes for many bird species and other small animals.

Yes, this loop is part of an extensive interconnected trail system. It seamlessly integrates sections of the Medicine Lake Trail, Medicine Lake Regional Trail, Luce Line Regional Trail, Zachary Lane Trail, and Bassett Creek Regional Trail, all within the Three Rivers Park District system.

Absolutely! The loop is very family-friendly, offering accessible sections and varied scenery. French Regional Park, a key part of the route, boasts an 'epic playground' and a beautiful swimming beach, making it a great destination for families. Geocaching opportunities are also available within the park.

While direct public transportation to all trailheads might be limited, you can research Metro Transit bus routes that serve areas near French Regional Park and the Medicine Lake Regional Trail. Planning your route in advance using the Metro Transit website is recommended.

Yes, as the loop is located within the Minneapolis metropolitan area, there are various cafes, restaurants, and pubs in the surrounding suburbs, particularly near French Regional Park in Plymouth, MN, and along parts of the Luce Line Trail. You'll find options for refreshments and meals a short distance from the trail.