1.
St. Olaf Natural Lands loop from St. Olaf College
8.29km
00:56
50m
50m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The best running trails around Northfield
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated May 29, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan jogging around Northfield, you know how quickly the sheer number of options can feel overwhelming. How do you cut through the noise and find the routes that are genuinely worth your time and effort, not just recycled highlights? That's where we come in. Our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed these trails, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of Northfield's best jogging routes.
Jogging in Northfield means embracing a landscape of gentle topography, where natural lands blend open spaces with wooded sections, often featuring small lakes and ponds. You'll find pleasant riverside paths along the Cannon River and extensive college natural lands, offering a range from easy loops to more challenging long-distance runs. The good news is that many routes are accessible for different fitness levels, and you can enjoy them throughout all four seasons.
If you only do one route, make it the St. Olaf Natural Lands loop from St. Olaf College, a popular 5.2 miles (8.3 km) moderate route that offers a truly scenic run through diverse natural landscapes. For a top favorite with pleasant lakeside views, the Upper Lyman Lake loop from Northfield is a fantastic 4.4 miles (7.0 km) option with minimal elevation gain. Dive in and discover why more than 200 runners have already used komoot to explore Northfield's varied terrain.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Olaf Natural Lands loop from St. Olaf College | 8.29 km | 50 m | Moderate |
| Upper Lyman Lake loop from Northfield | 6.98 km | 60 m | Moderate |
| Desi Diner – L&M Bar and Grill loop from Northfield | 15.2 km | 60 m | Hard |
| CROCT Mountain Bike Skill Park – L&M Bar and Grill loop from Dundas | 17.4 km | 50 m | Hard |
| Duckweed Pond loop from Northfield | 11.4 km | 80 m | Moderate |
| CROCT Mountain Bike Skill Park – Desi Diner loop from St. Olaf College | 12.2 km | 60 m | Moderate |
| Desi Diner – West Jefferson Roundabout loop from Northfield | 8.41 km | 50 m | Moderate |
| Tanzenwald Brewing Company – Carleton Arboretum Trail loop from Northfield | 12.6 km | 110 m | Moderate |
| Tanzenwald Brewing Company loop from Northfield | 5.50 km | 30 m | Moderate |
| Bridge to sneak over to DQ – Tanzenwald Brewing Company loop from Northfield | 13.4 km | 70 m | Moderate |
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2.
Upper Lyman Lake loop from Northfield
6.98km
00:46
60m
60m
The Upper Lyman Lake loop from Northfield offers a pleasant and accessible jogging experience right in town. This moderate 4.3-mile (7.0 km) route is designed for continuous running, featuring a gentle 194 feet (59 metres) of elevation gain that you can cover in about 46 minutes. It's a great way to enjoy the local scenery and get some exercise without venturing far.
Starting directly in Northfield, this loop is easy to get to, with convenient parking options typically available near the trailhead. It's an ideal choice for a morning or evening run, providing a consistent surface for jogging. Given its moderate difficulty and short duration, it's perfect for a regular fitness routine.
This route stands out as a reliable option for those seeking a straightforward and efficient workout in Northfield, Minnesota. It provides a local escape for runners, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and natural surroundings without the need for extensive travel or planning. It's a solid choice for daily exercise or a quick outdoor break.
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3.
Desi Diner – L&M Bar and Grill loop from Northfield
15.2km
01:35
60m
60m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
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4.
CROCT Mountain Bike Skill Park – L&M Bar and Grill loop from Dundas
17.4km
01:49
50m
50m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.
Duckweed Pond loop from Northfield
11.4km
01:11
80m
80m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
6.
CROCT Mountain Bike Skill Park – Desi Diner loop from St. Olaf College
12.2km
01:22
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
7.
Desi Diner – West Jefferson Roundabout loop from Northfield
8.41km
00:52
50m
50m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
8.
Tanzenwald Brewing Company – Carleton Arboretum Trail loop from Northfield
12.6km
01:21
110m
110m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9.
Tanzenwald Brewing Company loop from Northfield
5.50km
00:34
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
10.
Bridge to sneak over to DQ – Tanzenwald Brewing Company loop from Northfield
13.4km
01:27
70m
70m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
tcbscott
June 12, 2026, Desi Diner
I still haven't eaten here, but I hear good things from others that have. I took a picture of it while out on a ride last night.
1
0
tcbscott
June 1, 2026, Loon Liquors - pizzeria and distillery
Finally had a pizza, the smoked Sicilian. It was ok. Chris got a hot honey pepperoni, that was better. Peated whiskey was good.
1
0
tcbscott
May 18, 2026, Loon Liquors - pizzeria and distillery
Their Minnesota Peated Whiskey is good stuff!
1
0
tcbscott
May 15, 2026, Desi Diner
I put the image in from their Facebook page. I'll try and get a picture next time I'm in the area, but I don't pedal down Division much.
1
0
tcbscott
November 7, 2025, Marha's eats and treats at lunch tome
I stopped in for the first time today (they are only open Friday and Saturday 6am to 2pm), had a great pastrami sandwich with kraut. I'll have to go back and try the biscuits and gravy sometime, as well as some of the sweets.
1
0
tcbscott
September 17, 2025, Loon Liquors - pizzeria and distillery
Loon Liquors new home, now near downtown Northfield, right on the way into town on 19. They serve woodfire pizza I guess and I would like to try their peat smoke whiskey.
1
0
tcbscott
August 22, 2025, CROCT Mountain Bike Skill Park
In a bit of rough shape right now, but I'm sure they'll fix it up again.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Northfield?
Northfield offers a diverse selection of nearly 40 running routes. These range from easy, gentle paths to more challenging long-distance runs, catering to various fitness levels.
Are there easy jogging routes suitable for beginners in Northfield?
Yes, Northfield has several easy jogging routes perfect for beginners. These trails typically feature mild elevation changes and well-maintained paths. You can find about 4 easy routes to start your running journey.
What are some scenic running routes in Northfield?
Many routes in Northfield offer scenic views, often traversing natural lands, wooded sections, and lakeside paths. For a pleasant experience with minimal elevation gain, consider the Upper Lyman Lake loop from Northfield, which provides lovely lakeside running.
Can I find circular running routes in Northfield?
Absolutely. Many of Northfield's running trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular option is the St. Olaf Natural Lands loop from St. Olaf College, which offers a scenic run through natural landscapes.
Are there any running routes around Northfield that are approximately 5 miles long?
Yes, the St. Olaf Natural Lands loop from St. Olaf College is a popular choice, measuring 5.2 miles (8.3 km). It's a moderate trail that takes about 55 minutes to complete.
What is the typical duration for running trails in Northfield?
Running trail durations in Northfield vary widely depending on the route's length and your pace. For instance, the St. Olaf Natural Lands loop takes about 55 minutes, while a longer route like the Tanzenwald Brewing Company – L&M Bar and Grill loop can take around 1 hour 35 minutes.
Are there any family-friendly jogging routes in Northfield?
Northfield's gentle topography and mild elevation changes make many routes suitable for families. Look for trails that follow local pathways and connect green areas, as these often provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Northfield?
The komoot community highly rates the running experience in Northfield, with an average score of 3.0 stars. Runners often praise the region's varied terrain, which includes natural lands, lakeside paths, and local pathways, offering options for different ability levels.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions along the running routes in Northfield?
Yes, some routes may pass by or near local points of interest. For example, you might encounter places like Mill Park or the Dundas Trailhead of the Milltowns State Trail. These highlights offer a chance to explore the area's character while on your run.
Are there any longer, more challenging running routes in Northfield?
For those seeking a greater challenge, Northfield offers several difficult routes. The Tanzenwald Brewing Company – L&M Bar and Grill loop from Northfield is a notable option, spanning 9.6 miles (15.4 km) and typically taking about 1 hour 35 minutes to complete.
What is the best time of year to jog on Northfield trails?
Northfield's trails are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also popular, especially on routes with shaded sections or near lakes. Winter running is possible, but conditions may vary, so checking local weather and trail reports is advisable.
Are there any running routes that pass by a lake or pond in Northfield?
Yes, Northfield's landscape often features small lakes and ponds. The Upper Lyman Lake loop from Northfield is an excellent example, providing pleasant lakeside running with minimal elevation gain.
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