The best city hikes and walks in Grand Forks County

The Red River State Recreation Area Hiking Club Trail offers a truly unique experience, blending urban history with natural beauty. This easy 3.2-mile (5.1 km) route, with a minimal 40 feet (12 metres) of elevation gain, guides you along the Red River, through prairie grasses, and past the poignant remnants of the former Sherlock neighborhood. Expect a paved, mostly flat path that takes about 1 hour and 17 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

Planning your visit is straightforward; the trail begins at the Park Office, providing easy access to this comprehensive overview of the recreation area. Its urban location means you're never far from amenities like restaurants and shops, perfect for a post-hike treat. No special permits are required, and the trail is generally accessible, making it a convenient option for a spontaneous outing.

This trail is particularly notable for its origin story, established on land transformed after the devastating 1997 flood. It's part of a larger 7-mile network of multi-use paved trails, connecting to an even broader 22 miles of trails across the Red River into North Dakota. Keep an eye out for bald eagles along the river and enjoy the blend of natural and historical points of interest.

The Riverside Park Warming House loop offers a gentle escape into nature, tracing the banks of the Red River. You'll wander along mostly paved paths, occasionally transitioning to mowed grass, with views of the river, prairie grasses, and seasonal wildflowers. It's an easy 4.3-mile (6.9 km) hiking trail with only 53 feet (16 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed outing that takes about 1 hour and 44 minutes.

Planning your visit is straightforward; the Red River State Recreation Area is open year-round, though spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions for family-friendly hikes. Parking is readily available at various access points within the park, and you won't need any special permits. This route is also a great option for those looking for dog-friendly trails, just remember to keep your furry friend on a leash.

What makes this area truly special is its history; it was transformed into a greenway after the devastating 1997 flood, creating a unique urban park. As you explore the Red River State Recreation Area trails, you might spot remnants of the former community, like old sidewalks or planted apple trees, adding a poignant layer to the natural scenery. It's also a fantastic spot for birdwatching, with over 250 species recorded.

This easy hiking loop from Grand Forks offers a delightful journey through the Greater Grand Forks Greenway, a unique urban oasis along the Red and Red Lake Rivers. You'll enjoy a gentle 4.3-mile (6.9 km) walk with only 55 feet (17 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete. The well-maintained, hard-surfaced paths provide a smooth experience, winding past green spaces, the Flood Memorial, and offering opportunities for birdwatching along the waterways.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as this family-friendly and dog-friendly trail is accessible year-round. You'll find convenient parking at various points along the Greenway, along with amenities like restrooms and picnic areas. It's an ideal choice for a casual stroll or a quick outdoor escape, without the need for early starts to secure a spot.

What makes this one of the more popular loop trails in Grand Forks is its remarkable history as a flood-protection system transformed into a vibrant recreational hub after the 1997 flood. The Greenway also boasts a unique 10-mile interstate loop that connects Grand Forks, North Dakota, and East Grand Forks, Minnesota, allowing you to experience two states in one journey, complete with interpretive plaques detailing local history and wildlife.