The best cycling routes in Ramsey County

The Mississippi River Trail Loop offers a fantastic touring cycling experience, guiding you through a diverse urban landscape alongside the iconic Mississippi River. You'll enjoy well-maintained paths, passing by significant natural landmarks like the Confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers, and can take in panoramic views from the Fort Snelling Scenic Overlook. This moderate route covers 24.5 miles (39.5 km) with 925 feet (282 metres) of elevation gain, providing a good workout without being overly demanding.

Expect to spend around 2 hours and 23 minutes completing the loop, making it a great option for a half-day adventure. Access is generally straightforward, with various entry points along the route, including facilities at Harriet Island Regional Park. For the most comfortable ride, plan your visit during the spring or fall when temperatures are mild and the scenery is vibrant.

This trail is a highlight for anyone looking to combine city exploration with natural beauty, offering a unique perspective on the Twin Cities' riverfront. It's an excellent choice for cyclists seeking a moderate challenge and scenic viewpoints, providing a comprehensive experience of the Mississippi River's urban stretch.

The Saint Paul Grand Round offers a unique touring cycling experience, encircling the city through a network of parks and scenic byways. You'll pedal past the tranquil waters of Como Lake and Lake Phalen, enjoy stunning viewpoints along the Mississippi River, and weave through various green spaces. The route is mostly paved, providing a smooth ride, but expect some moderate elevation changes, especially in the southern sections.

While largely accessible, be mindful that some parts of this 30.2-mile (48.7 km) route, which typically takes 2 hours and 48 minutes, require riding on city streets, and signage can be inconsistent in areas like Lake Phalen. Congestion can also be an issue, particularly near Lake Phalen and the State Fairgrounds during events. Always check for construction updates before you go.

This moderate cycling route is a historical marvel, envisioned in the late 1800s to connect Saint Paul's significant outdoor landmarks into a continuous loop. It serves as a vital connector for parks, neighborhoods, and businesses, linking to other regional trails like the Bruce Vento Regional Trail. It's a great way to explore the city's diverse landscapes and historical planning.

Embark on the Gateway and Brown's Creek Trail Loop for a refreshing touring bicycle adventure that blends urban convenience with riverside charm. This moderate 39.0-mile (62.7 km) route, with 1150 feet (350 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through varied scenery, from the tree-lined paths of the Gateway State Trail to the picturesque banks of the St. Croix River. You'll pass by Lake Phalen and experience the thrill of crossing the St. Croix Crossing Bridge, all within an estimated 3 hours and 40 minutes of cycling.

Accessing the trail is simple, with parking readily available near the Gateway State Trailhead. To make the most of your ride, consider starting early in the day, especially during warmer seasons, to enjoy cooler temperatures and less crowded paths. The route is well-suited for a full day's outing, offering a consistent surface for touring bicycles.

This loop is a fantastic option for cyclists looking for a substantial ride without extreme challenges, making it a popular choice among local routes near St. Paul, Minnesota. It provides a great way to explore the region's natural beauty and engineering marvels, like the Stillwater Lift Bridge, offering a blend of active recreation and scenic sightseeing.

If you're looking for a delightful urban cycling experience, the Mississippi River loop via Franklin Avenue Bridge delivers with its blend of scenic riverfront and city views. This easy 13.5-mile (21.7 km) touring cycling route offers a gentle 417 feet (127 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect outing that takes approximately 1 hour and 16 minutes. You'll ride on mostly paved paths, enjoying the expansive Mississippi River vistas, particularly from the iconic Franklin Avenue Bridge, and passing through lush wooded areas and parks.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the route is part of the extensive Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway. You'll find various parking options along the route, especially near popular spots like Minnehaha Park. While the trails are maintained throughout the year, the most pleasant cycling conditions and vibrant scenery are typically found from spring to autumn. Be aware that some sections, particularly on the East River Parkway, can be shared with pedestrians and might get busy.

This loop is a fantastic way to experience the natural and urban landscapes of Minneapolis, connecting you to the broader Grand Rounds system. It offers a unique perspective on the Mississippi River, with opportunities to spot wildlife like bald eagles and enjoy the Minneapolis skyline. The route's accessibility and predominantly separated bike lanes make it a popular choice for a relaxed and rewarding ride.

The Lake Links Trail offers a delightful and easy touring cycling experience, guiding you along the scenic shores of White Bear Lake. You'll enjoy smooth paths and refreshing lake breezes, with the route connecting pleasant spots like Bellaire Beach and White Bear Lake County Beach. It's a perfect way to soak in the local atmosphere and enjoy the outdoors without a strenuous effort, making it a favorite among local cycling routes for its accessibility and charm.

This family-friendly cycling route covers 10.2 miles (16.4 km) with a minimal 188 feet (57 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 56 minutes to complete. It's rated as easy, so you won't need to worry about challenging climbs or technical sections. You can easily access the trail from various points around White Bear Lake, Minnesota, and it's generally enjoyable throughout the day, though mornings offer a peaceful start.

As a popular route in White Bear Lake, the Lake Links Trail is well-regarded for its gentle terrain and beautiful lake views. It's an excellent option for beginner touring cyclists or anyone seeking a relaxed ride. The trail's proximity to the town means you're never far from cafes or other amenities, making it easy to combine your ride with a stop for refreshments.

The Saint Paul Grand Round offers a unique touring cycling experience, weaving through the heart of Saint Paul's urban landscape and connecting its cherished green spaces. You'll pedal past the serene Como Lake, enjoy expansive views of the Mississippi River, and take in the impressive architecture of the Minneapolis City Hall and Hennepin County Courthouse. This route provides a wonderful way to see the city's notable landmarks and natural features from the saddle.

Planning your ride on the Saint Paul Grand Round is straightforward, with various access points and amenities available along the way. The route is a moderate 29.1-mile (46.8 km) loop with 822 feet (251 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 44 minutes to complete. It's an ideal option for those seeking a substantial city ride without extreme difficulty, and you'll find parking and public transport options to get you started.

This extensive network of Saint Paul bike trails is a testament to the city's commitment to urban greenways, offering a continuous path that highlights the best of its parks and parkways. It's a fantastic way to explore the city's character, providing both recreational cycling and a scenic commute. The Grand Round is a popular choice for locals and visitors alike, showcasing the beauty and accessibility of cycling routes connecting Saint Paul parks.

Cycle the 16.9-mile Mississippi River Trail Loop, a moderate route through the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area.

Cycle the Big Rivers and Mississippi River Trail Loop, a moderate 17.6-mile route with scenic river views and historical landmarks.

Cycle the easy 7.8-mile Battle Creek Park Loop, a touring route through woods and wetlands with scenic bluffs and wildlife in St. Paul.