1.
Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park – Sunken Lakeside Singletrack loop from Shenandoah Park
18.8km
01:14
40m
40m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
The best MTB trails around Shoreview
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated June 1, 2026
If you've ever tried planning mountain biking around Shoreview, you know how quickly the options can become overwhelming. With so many trails and parks, it's tough to figure out which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – you want the good stuff, not endless scrolling. That's where komoot comes in. Our community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, giving you a curated shortlist of the best mountain biking experiences Shoreview has to offer, saving you the guesswork.
Mountain biking around Shoreview truly feels like an escape into nature, even close to the city. The landscape is defined by its abundant lakes, extensive park systems, and interconnected trail networks, winding through wetlands, forests, and open water. While many routes are easygoing and perfect for a relaxed ride, there are also moderate trails that offer a bit more challenge and varied terrain. You'll find a mix of wooded areas and open spaces, providing a dynamic backdrop for your ride.
If you only do one ride, we'd start with the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park – Sunken Lakeside Singletrack loop from Shenandoah Park. This easy 11.5 miles (18.5 km) route is a local favorite for its scenic lakeside paths and gentle flow, perfect for a first visit or a relaxed afternoon. For something a bit more challenging, the Mill Ruins Park – Saint-Anthony-Falls loop from Stadium Village offers a moderate 20.9 miles (33.6 km) ride with varied terrain and a rewarding urban-natural blend. Ready to explore? More than 40 mountain bikers have already used komoot to discover Shoreview's trails – join them!
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park – Sunken Lakeside Singletrack loop from Shenandoah Park | 18.8 km | 40 m | Easy |
| Mill Ruins Park – Saint-Anthony-Falls loop from Stadium Village | 33.6 km | 220 m | Moderate |
| Lake Nokomis – Minnehaha Falls loop from Christian Park | 44.0 km | 250 m | Moderate |
| Ford Dam Scenic Overlook – Franklin Avenue Bridge loop from Westgate | 18.8 km | 150 m | Easy |
| Wooden Turtle Sculpture – Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park loop from Centerville | 19.6 km | 50 m | Easy |
| Theodore Wirth Parkway loop from Columbia Heights | 24.6 km | 110 m | Easy |
| Gateway State Trail – Matoska Park loop from Bruentrup Heritage Farm | 31.2 km | 130 m | Easy |
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2.
Mill Ruins Park – Saint-Anthony-Falls loop from Stadium Village
33.6km
02:10
220m
220m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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3.
Lake Nokomis – Minnehaha Falls loop from Christian Park
44.0km
02:28
250m
250m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.
Ford Dam Scenic Overlook – Franklin Avenue Bridge loop from Westgate
18.8km
01:06
150m
150m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
5.
Wooden Turtle Sculpture – Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park loop from Centerville
19.6km
01:15
50m
50m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
6.
Theodore Wirth Parkway loop from Columbia Heights
24.6km
01:18
110m
110m
The Theodore Wirth Parkway loop from Columbia Heights offers an engaging mountain biking experience that feels miles away from the city. This easy 15.3-mile (24.7 km) route, with a modest 354 feet (108 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through a mix of smooth flow trails, wooded singletrack, and open prairie. You'll navigate bermed turns and small rock gardens, enjoying the natural scenery around Birch Pond and Wirth Lake, and might even catch a peek at the downtown Minneapolis skyline. Expect a fun, varied ride that takes about 1 hour and 18 minutes to complete.
To make the most of your visit, plan to start your ride from "The Trailhead," where you'll find convenient amenities like restrooms and a cafe. Remember to avoid the singletrack trails when they are wet to help maintain their condition. While the park is accessible year-round, it transforms into a winter wonderland for fat biking on its snow-flow singletrack, offering a unique seasonal adventure. Parking is generally ample, making this a hassle-free destination.
What truly sets this route apart is its extensive network of over 12 miles of singletrack, making it a premier mountain biking destination in the Twin Cities. The trails are known for their "fun and flowie" character, blending challenging features with accessible bypasses. This urban oasis provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and spot wildlife like deer and foxes, all within a five-minute drive of downtown Minneapolis.
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7.
Gateway State Trail – Matoska Park loop from Bruentrup Heritage Farm
31.2km
01:40
130m
130m
This mountain biking loop offers a pleasant escape, primarily following the multi-use Gateway State Trail. You'll find yourself transitioning from suburban areas into surprisingly rural landscapes, with views of wetlands, fields, and the serene White Bear Lake from Matoska Park. The route is mostly flat, making it an easy 19.4-mile (31.2 km) ride with only 414 feet (126 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Starting from Bruentrup Heritage Farm, which provides convenient parking, this easy route is suitable for all skill levels, including beginner mountain bikers or families. The Gateway State Trail can get busy, so an early start is recommended, especially on pleasant weekends. While the trail is open year-round, conditions will vary with the weather, so plan accordingly.
The Gateway State Trail is notable as a pioneering "rails-to-trails" project, connecting urban St. Paul to more rural settings. For those seeking a less manicured surface, a parallel unpaved path runs alongside the paved trail for a significant portion, offering a different experience for mountain or gravel bikes. This loop provides a great way to explore the area's natural beauty and historical sites without encountering technical mountain biking terrain.
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Tips from the Community
Robert Hanson
October 3, 2025, Boardwalk in Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park
an amazingly long straight boardwalk. Easily bikeable.
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Lisa
June 21, 2025, Minnehaha Creek (bridge)
This creek runs almost 22 miles in total, and is popular with paddlers of all sorts. If you want to kick back and watch them zoom by on the current, pull over and look for some benches on the east bank.
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maniboyflex
June 11, 2025, Wooden Turtle Sculpture
Just a cool and fun turtle sculpture carved into a tree stump.
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maniboyflex
June 11, 2025, Sasquatch Loop, Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park
The Sasquatch Loop is an alternative route while riding or walking in Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park. It’s a quiet, forested section that gives you a chance to connect with nature and enjoy a peaceful moment.
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Sue
January 16, 2025, The Trailhead at Theodore Wirth Park
Part of Theodore Wirth Park, The Trailhead is a hub for outdoor recreation in the community. Here, you'll find ski passes and all the essentials for your adventures in the park. There are lockers, a drinking fountain, restrooms, concessions, and equipment rentals.
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maniboyflex
January 14, 2025, View of Lake Street Bridge from Mississippi River Boulevard
An easily accessible section of the Mississippi River Boulevard that offers an elevated view of the river, with the Lake Street Bridge visible in the background. The lush green trees framing the scenery and the flowing river make this path a perfect place to ride.
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Lisa
January 2, 2025, Minnehaha Falls
When waters run high, this 53-foot-tall waterfall turns into a thundering cataract. There are picnic tables up top, and a trail that takes you down to nice views of the falls from below. It's well worth parking your bike to spend some time here.
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AaronLavanchy
December 3, 2024, Mill Ruins Park
Mill Ruins Park is located in downtown Minneapolis and shows the ruins of several flour mills dating back to the late 1850's. The park was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. It also offers views of Stone Arch Bridge, St. Anthony Falls, and the Mississippi River.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Shoreview?
There are 6 mountain bike trails documented around Shoreview on komoot. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy paths to more challenging moderate options.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Shoreview?
Shoreview's extensive trail system is generally maintained year-round. While spring and fall offer beautiful scenery, especially with brilliant fall foliage, it's always wise to check local conditions for wet trails in spring or potential closures. Winter provides opportunities for activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and some trails might be suitable for fat biking.
Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Shoreview?
Yes, Shoreview offers several easy mountain bike trails. A great option for beginners is the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park – Sunken Lakeside Singletrack loop from Shenandoah Park, which is 11.5 miles (18.5 km) long and winds through scenic parkland. Another easy route is the Sunken Lakeside Singletrack – Wooden Turtle Sculpture loop from Centerville, covering 10.5 miles (16.8 km) through lakeside areas.
Are there more challenging mountain bike trails near Shoreview?
While Shoreview itself has mostly easy to moderate trails, more challenging options are available nearby. The Upper Landing Park – Little Pig's Eye Lake loop from Lexington Parkway is a difficult 22-mile (35.4 km) route. Additionally, Battle Creek Mountain Bike Trail, located in St. Paul but frequently cited as a top destination near Shoreview, is known for its longer climbs, rough descents, and jumps, offering a more challenging experience.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails around Shoreview?
The terrain around Shoreview is diverse, characterized by numerous lakes, extensive park systems, and interconnected trail networks. You'll find a mix of paved and unpaved sections, wetlands, forests, and open spaces. Trails like the Theodore Wirth Regional Park – West River Parkway Trail loop from Saint Anthony offer varied terrain through natural landscapes.
Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails in Shoreview?
Shoreview's extensive network of trails, including many easy and paved sections, makes it very family-friendly. The city prides itself on connecting neighborhoods to parks and schools. Routes like the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park – Sunken Lakeside Singletrack loop from Shenandoah Park are generally suitable for families looking for a pleasant ride.
Can I bring my dog on the mountain bike trails in Shoreview?
Many of Shoreview's parks and trails are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. It's always best to check specific park regulations before heading out, but generally, the extensive network of multi-use trails allows for enjoyable rides with your canine companion.
What are some scenic highlights or attractions along the mountain bike routes?
Shoreview's trails often pass through beautiful natural environments. You can explore areas like East & West Vadnais Lakes, which are part of an expansive regional park system. The Rice Creek North Regional Trail also offers peaceful water views and diverse wildlife sightings. Other nearby attractions include Lake Phalen and Como Lake.
Are there mountain bike trails that form a loop in Shoreview?
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Shoreview are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your ride at the same point. Examples include the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park – Sunken Lakeside Singletrack loop from Shenandoah Park and the Sunken Lakeside Singletrack – Wooden Turtle Sculpture loop from Centerville.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Shoreview?
The mountain bike routes in Shoreview are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 1 review. Over 40 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Shoreview's varied terrain, often praising the scenic lakeside paths and well-maintained park trails.
Are there any specific mountain biking trails with technical features near Shoreview?
While many Shoreview trails are multi-use, dedicated mountain biking opportunities with technical features exist very close by. The 'Fantastic Ferns Mountain Bike Trail' near Shoreview offers three different line choices with steep, technical, and gravity jump/drop sections, categorized as intermediate/difficult. The '47 Mountain Bike Trail' features a steep short climb into a 47-degree steep slope with roots, rocks, and bumps.
Where can I find parking for mountain bike trails in Shoreview?
Shoreview's extensive park system means that most regional and city parks with trail access offer designated parking areas. For example, trails within the Vadnais-Snail Lakes Regional Park system or near the Rice Creek North Regional Trail typically have accessible parking lots. It's advisable to check specific park websites for detailed parking information.
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