The best MTB trails around Crown College
5.0
(22)
404
riders
13
rides
Mountain bike trails near Crown College are primarily found in the area surrounding the Minnesota campus, characterized by a landscape of lakes, park reserves, and varied woodlands. The region offers a mix of natural features, including the expansive Carver Park Reserve with its network of trails. This environment provides diverse terrain suitable for mountain biking, from lakeside paths to more challenging singletrack sections. The area around Crown College Minnesota offers a range of routes for different skill levels.
Best mountain…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
5.0
(9)
142
riders
20.6km
01:46
160m
160m
Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
5.0
(7)
133
riders
28.7km
02:12
220m
220m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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14
riders
28.9km
02:00
190m
190m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
14
riders
5.72km
00:30
50m
50m
Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
10
riders
5.46km
00:26
30m
30m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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Tips from the Community
To get to Lake McKnight from Lake Jonathan, which is located to the south, you have two options. You can either portage your bike over a railroad track or cross the railroad tracks using an abandoned bridge on McKnight Road to the west. After crossing, you can take a trail heading east to Lake McKnight. If you are routing a tour across the bridge on komoot, you will have to use the off-grid option on komoot
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To get to Lake McKnight from Lake Jonathan, which is located to the south, you have two options. You can either portage your bike over a railroad track or cross the railroad tracks using an abandoned bridge on McKnight Road to the west. After crossing, you can take a trail heading back east to reach Lake McKnight.
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McKnight Lake is surrounded by unpaved but smooth trails for biking and hiking. There are 11 species of fish in this 165-acre lake, and it is connected to a lake to the south named Lake Jonathan.
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Big Woods Lake is a horseshoe reservoir and is the most northern lake of the Grace Chain of Lakes group. There are several trails that get right up next to the shores of the water, and they offer different perspectives of the lake as they travel along the banks.
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At 165 acres, McKnight Lake is a shallow, popular lake in Chaska, Minnesota. It's part of the Grace Chain of Lakes, which is the name given to McKnight Lake and the 4 other lakes surrounding it.
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John's Jam is an optional technical session on the way to The Silo. Drops are well labeled and they have a variety of skinnies to try.
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Grimm's should be green and is in my opinion the easiest loop at Monarch.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Crown College?
There are over 10 mountain bike trails around Crown College, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These include 4 easy, 4 moderate, and 3 difficult routes.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are several easy trails perfect for beginners or families. For example, the McKnight Lake – Abandoned Bridge loop from Victoria is an easy 28.9 km route that takes approximately 2 hours to complete. The Carver Park Reserve also offers trails suitable for various levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails near Crown College?
The trails around Crown College, particularly in Minnesota, feature diverse terrain. You can expect a mix of woodlands, lakeside paths, and challenging singletrack sections, especially within the expansive Carver Park Reserve. The landscape is characterized by numerous lakes and varied natural features.
Are there any challenging mountain bike routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the John's Jam – Grimm's Entrance loop from Lunsten Lake offer demanding rides over 20 km. Another difficult option is the shorter Two-way Bridge loop from Lake 2, which is 5.7 km.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in the Crown College area?
The mountain biking trails around Crown College are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the scenic beauty of the park reserves and lakes, and the well-maintained singletrack sections that provide an engaging experience.
Are there any loop trails for mountain biking near Crown College?
Yes, many of the trails are designed as loops, offering a continuous riding experience. Examples include the Raptor Ridge loop from Lake 2, a moderate 12.4 km trail, and the more challenging Grimm's Entrance – John's Jam loop from Lake Minnetonka Swim Pond, which is 28.7 km.
What are some scenic spots or attractions I can see while mountain biking near Crown College?
The area offers several scenic spots. You can ride through the expansive Carver Park Reserve Trail, enjoy views of Lake Waconia from the Dakota Trail, or explore the natural beauty around Lake Auburn. The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is also nearby for a different kind of natural beauty.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
While specific parking details vary by trailhead, major parks like Carver Park Reserve, which hosts many of the trails, typically offer designated parking areas for visitors. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for precise parking information for your chosen trail.
Can I find singletrack mountain bike trails in the Crown College area?
Yes, the Crown College area is known for its singletrack mountain bike trails, particularly within the Carver Park Reserve. Routes like the Grimm's Entrance – John's Jam loop from Lake Minnetonka Swim Pond feature extensive singletrack sections, providing an engaging ride through the natural landscape.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking near Crown College?
The best time to go mountain biking near Crown College is generally from spring through fall, when the weather is mild and trails are dry. Fall offers particularly scenic rides with changing foliage. While winter mountain biking is possible, trail conditions can vary significantly due to snow and ice, so checking local conditions is essential.
Are there any places to eat or stay near the mountain bike trails?
The communities surrounding Crown College, such as Waconia, Minnetrista, and St. Bonifacius, offer various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. These towns provide convenient stops for refreshments or overnight stays after a day on the trails.
Are there any specific downhill features or bike parks in the vicinity?
Yes, for those looking for specific downhill features, The Silo is a highlight in the area known for its downhill sections, offering a more gravity-focused riding experience.
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