Minnesota Valley and River Bluffs Trails Loop

This loop offers a varied cycling experience. The route combines sections of the Minnesota Valley State Trail and the Minnesota River Bluffs LRT Regional Trail. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces: some parts of the Minnesota Valley State Trail are paved, offering a smooth ride, while others, particularly west of Chaska, feature natural, rougher surfaces that can be sandy or rocky. The Minnesota River Bluffs LRT Regional Trail primarily uses crushed limestone, which is generally smooth and suitable for most bikes, though some paved sections can be bumpy. Be prepared for varying conditions, especially after rain or flooding.

Given the mixed terrain, a gravel bike or a mountain bike is ideal for this loop. These bikes can comfortably handle both the paved sections and the rougher, unpaved natural surfaces found on parts of the Minnesota Valley State Trail. While road bikes can manage the crushed limestone and paved segments, they are not recommended for the natural surface portions due to potential silt deposits and rough conditions.

The full loop is approximately 22.4 kilometers (13.9 miles) long. For a touring cyclist, it typically takes around 1 hour and 18 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

You'll find several scenic spots and points of interest. Highlights include the Minnesota River Bluffs Trail — Bridge 101, and a beautiful View of the Minnesota River from Minnesota River Bluffs Trail. The trail also passes through diverse landscapes like oak hardwood forests, savannas, wetlands, and bluffs, offering many picturesque overlooks of the Minnesota River.

The loop traverses areas rich in wildlife, especially within the Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area. You might spot various bird species, including migrating songbirds and waterfowl, particularly around Horseshoe Lake. Deer, foxes, and other small mammals are also common in the forested and wetland areas.

The overall difficulty of this loop is rated as easy. The Minnesota River Bluffs LRT Regional Trail, being a rail-trail, has gentle grades. While the Minnesota Valley State Trail is generally flat, its unpaved sections can be challenging for beginners or those on unsuitable bikes. If you're a beginner, consider sticking to the paved and crushed limestone sections or using a bike designed for varied terrain.

Spring and fall are generally the best seasons for cycling this loop, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. However, be aware that sections of the Minnesota Valley State Trail are prone to flooding, especially in spring, which can lead to muddy or impassable conditions. Always check trail conditions before you go, particularly after heavy rainfall.

Yes, this loop integrates sections of the Minnesota Valley State Trail and the Minnesota River Bluffs LRT Regional Trail. It also briefly uses the Big Woods Regional Trail. The Minnesota River Bluffs LRT Regional Trail itself connects with other major regional trails like the Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail, Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail, and Cedar Lake Trail, allowing for extended rides.

As parts of this route are within the Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area, a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is required for parking at state park or state trail trailheads. You can purchase daily or annual permits from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on these trails. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times, and you are responsible for cleaning up after your pet. Always check for specific signage or regulations along different sections of the trail.

While the trails offer a sense of escape into nature, they do pass through or near urban centers like Chaska and Shakopee. You can find various amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and shops, in these towns. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for longer stretches between towns.