The best walks and hikes around South St. Paul
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Hiking around South St. Paul is characterized by routes that follow the Mississippi River and connect a network of regional parks. The landscape features riverside paths, paved greenways, wooded ravines, and bluffs. Many trails are built on levees, providing generally flat terrain suitable for a range of fitness levels. The region also includes diverse ecosystems such as prairies, woodlands, and wetlands.
Best hiking trails around South St. Paul
- The most popular hiking route is Harriet Island & Cherokee Regional Parks loop — Saint Paul, a 4.3 mile (6.9 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 50 minutes to complete. This route offers views of the river and the city skyline from two connected regional parks.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is River to River Greenway from Simon's Ravine to Thompson Lake loop — West Saint Paul, an easy 3.4 mile (5.6 km) path. The trail follows a paved greenway connecting different park areas.
- Local hikers also love the Battle Creek Winthrop Recreation Area loop — Battle Creek Regional Park, a 2.4 mile (3.8 km) trail leading through a section of the expansive park, often completed in about 1 hour.
- Hiking around South St. Paul is defined by riverside paths, paved greenways, and wooded parklands. The interconnected trail network provides options for both short walks and longer hikes.
- The routes in South St. Paul are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 19 reviews. More than 200 hikers have used komoot to explore South St. Paul's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
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5.07km
01:18
20m
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Embark on an easy hike through the Dodge Nature Center Trails, where you'll discover a unique mix of natural and agricultural landscapes. As you walk, you can explore restored prairies, peaceful woodlands, and wetlands, offering a chance to observe abundant local wildlife. A highlight of this route is encountering the working model farm, complete with farm animals and an apiary, providing a distinct experience. This easy route covers 3.1 miles (5.1 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 79 feet (24 metres), and you can expect to complete it in about 1 hour and 18 minutes.
Planning your visit to the Dodge Nature Center Trails is straightforward. The center is open every day from sunrise to sunset, giving you ample time to enjoy your hike. There is no fee required to access the trails, making it a budget-friendly option for outdoor activity. Keep in mind that dogs and bikes are generally not permitted on most of the trails within the center, so it's best suited for a walking excursion.
What sets these trails apart is the blend of natural environments with an active agricultural setting. You'll find yourself moving between old-growth forests and open prairies, with each visit potentially revealing new aspects of the local ecosystem. The presence of the working farm and apiary offers a unique educational element, distinguishing this location from typical hiking paths. It's an ideal destination if you are looking for a family-friendly outdoor experience that combines nature observation with a touch of rural life.
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4.57km
01:13
50m
40m
Embark on an easy hiking adventure along the Thompson County Park Loop, a pleasant route spanning 2.8 miles (4.6 km). You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 159 feet (49 metres) as you wind around Thompson County Park Lake, offering serene water views and diverse habitats like hilly savanna and shady woodlands. Expect to complete this loop in about 1 hour and 12 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick outdoor escape.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the park features ADA-compliant paved trails, ensuring accessibility for many. You can easily find amenities like a large picnic area for a post-hike meal or a fishing pier if you wish to cast a line. The trail system also connects to the River to River Greenway, providing options for extending your exploration if you desire a longer outing.
This loop offers a quiet escape within an urban setting, serving as an important urban oasis that encourages nature discovery. Keep an eye out for various bird species that frequent the area, adding to the natural charm of your hike. The park's connection to the broader Greenway system highlights its role as a gateway to more extensive regional trails.
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4.30km
01:08
60m
10m
Embark on the Point Douglas Trail, an easy 2.7 miles (4.3 km) hiking route that guides you along a paved, multi-use path. You will experience a gentle ascent, gaining 187 feet (57 metres) in elevation, which typically takes around 1 hour and 8 minutes to complete. As you hike, you'll enjoy picturesque views of the Mississippi River, particularly where it converges with the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. The route also offers glimpses of the active railroad tracks running parallel to the river, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial history.
Planning your visit to the Point Douglas Trail is straightforward, as its paved surface makes it accessible for hikers and cyclists alike. You can usually find parking at several access points located within the broader park system, making it convenient to start your journey. Before heading out, it's always a good idea to check the local park websites for the most current details on facilities and any potential access changes. This ensures you have the latest information for a smooth and enjoyable outing.
This trail is nestled within Battle Creek Regional Park, offering a chance to explore a significant historical site. As you traverse the path, you will pass by the Site of the Battle of Battle Creek, adding a layer of historical context to your outdoor adventure. The trail's design along a former railroad corridor also highlights the region's past transportation links, making it more than just a scenic walk.
1.44km
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Discover Simon's Ravine, an easy hike offering a refreshing break into nature. This route covers 0.9 miles (1.4 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 186 feet (57 metres), taking approximately 24 minutes to complete. You will find a pleasant mix of natural beauty and continuous views of the Mississippi River, especially as you follow the levee. Keep an eye out for the charming Wooden Bridge, a distinctive feature along the path, and observe the passing barges and railroad commerce that add to the unique scenery.
Planning your visit to Simon's Ravine is straightforward, as the trailhead is well-equipped for your convenience. You will find ample off-street parking available, along with modern restrooms and drinking fountains for both you and your pets. This makes it easy to prepare for your short adventure, ensuring a comfortable start and end to your hike. Consider visiting during daylight hours to fully appreciate the river views and natural surroundings.
Beyond the trail itself, the trailhead area offers more to explore. You can reflect at the
2.44km
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The Mississippi River Greenway offers an easy hiking experience along the river, stretching 1.5 miles (2.4 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 10 feet (3 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 36 minutes. As you hike, you will enjoy continuous scenic views of the Mississippi River, with sections winding through woodlands and prairie. Look for diverse wildflowers and bluffs along the way, especially near the levee in South St. Paul.
This multi-use trail is generally paved, making it suitable for all ages and abilities. Parking is available at various trailheads, including the Wakota Trailhead, which also offers facilities for your convenience. While the route is mostly flat, be aware that some sections in the broader Dakota County area might include small hills or short gravel portions.
Located within the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, the Greenway provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you explore. Don't miss the distinctive 'The Industrious Cooperative Ant at Wildflower Levee Park' highlight, adding a touch of local character to your journey.
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Tips from the Community
Battle Creek takes its name from the Battle of Kaposia (also known as the Battle of Battle Creek). In June 1842, a band of roughly 100 Ojibwe warriors traveled south to attack the Dakota village of Kaposia, then led by Chief Little Crow. The Ojibwe hid in the deep, wooded ravine near this site to launch a surprise attack. The ensuing battle lasted for several hours and was so intense that early settlers in what is now downtown Saint Paul could hear the gunfire and watch the fighting from the bluffs across the river. This conflict was the last major large-scale battle between these two nations in the Saint Paul area.
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Neat park with probably one of the biggest rental spaces in Dakota County Parks. Nice new playground, fishing pond, restrooms, disc golf, etc.
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Parking and a boat launch with access to bike trails that head north, south, and east!
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"The Industrious Cooperative Ant" sculpture is located along the trails in Wildflower Levee Park and was created with trash that was found in the river. The art piece serves as a reminder of the importance clean water has, and its value as a resource for not just humans but thousands of other species as well.
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"The Industrious Cooperative Ant" sculpture is located along the trails in Wildflower Levee Park and was created with trash that was found in the river. The art piece serves as a reminder of the importance clean water has, and its value as a resource for not just humans but thousands of other species as well.
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As a part of the Battle Creek Regional Park, the Battle Creek Pavilion Area is located in the north of the park. The paved hiking trail encircles multiple ponds and creeks while leading through the wetlands and open meadows of the area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many paved hiking trails in the South St. Paul area?
Yes, a significant number of trails around South St. Paul are paved, making them accessible for walking, running, and cycling. The Mississippi River Trail is a prime example, offering a flat, paved path along the river. Many parks, like Crosby Farm Regional Park and Kaposia Landing, also feature extensive paved trail networks through woodlands and along the riverfront.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Most parks and trails in and around South St. Paul are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. Popular spots for dog walkers include the expansive trail systems at Fort Snelling State Park and Battle Creek Regional Park. Always check specific park regulations before you go, as some sensitive natural areas may have restrictions.
What are some good hikes for beginners or families?
The region is excellent for beginners and families due to its many flat, accessible trails. The Kaposia Landing loop — West Saint Paul is a very easy and short walk along the river. For a slightly longer but still gentle option, the trails at Crosby Farm Regional Park are a local favorite, winding through scenic river-bottom forests.
Are there any trails with waterfalls near South St. Paul?
Yes, you can find waterfalls in the area. Hidden Falls Regional Park is a popular destination named for its charming, spring-fed waterfall tucked into the river bluffs. The park offers paved trails that lead to both the base of the falls and an upper viewing area. Shadow Falls Park also features a small, scenic waterfall in a more intimate setting.
What are some popular parks for hiking around South St. Paul?
Several highly-regarded parks offer excellent hiking. Fort Snelling State Park is a vast, popular area with numerous trails at the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers. Hidden Falls Regional Park is a local favorite for its scenic trails and namesake waterfall. For a more rugged experience, Battle Creek Regional Park provides a mix of paved and unpaved paths through a large, wooded valley.
How many hiking trails are available around South St. Paul?
There are over 35 hiking routes to explore in and around South St. Paul. The majority of these are rated as easy, featuring paved greenways and flat riverside paths, but there are also several moderate trails that explore the region's wooded bluffs and ravines.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this area?
The trails around South St. Paul are well-regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paved paths, the beautiful views of the Mississippi River, and the peaceful atmosphere of the connected park system.
Are there any longer-distance hiking options?
Yes, the interconnected trail system allows for longer hikes. The Mississippi River Trail and the River to River Greenway serve as spines that connect multiple parks. You can create extended routes by linking trails between places like Kaposia Park, Kaposia Landing, and Simon's Ravine. The Aspen Loop & Dan's Path — Harmon Park Reserve offers a good example of a longer loop at over 4 miles (6.9 km).
Where can I find scenic views of the Mississippi River?
Many trails offer excellent river views. The Mississippi River Trail, built atop a levee, provides open vistas of the water. For elevated views, the trails in Cherokee Regional Park run along the bluffs, offering panoramic scenes of the river and the St. Paul skyline. The overlooks at Kaposia Landing are also great spots for watching river activity.
What kind of terrain should I expect on the trails?
The terrain is quite varied. You'll find many flat, paved greenways, especially along the Mississippi River. However, parks like Battle Creek Regional Park and Hidden Falls Regional Park feature trails that wind through steep, wooded ravines and up river bluffs, offering more challenging inclines and natural surfaces.
How can I get to the trailheads using public transport?
Many of the major parks and trailheads within St. Paul city limits, such as those for Hidden Falls and Cherokee Regional Parks, are accessible via Metro Transit bus routes. It's best to use a transit planning app to find the most direct route to a specific park entrance or trailhead on the day of your hike.
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