The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Anoka County
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Family friendly hiking trails in Anoka County traverse a landscape shaped by significant river corridors, including the Mississippi and Rum Rivers, alongside diverse ecosystems of dense forests, open prairies, and wetlands. The region features moderate topography, with hills generally under 200 meters, offering varied terrain suitable for all ages. Hikers can explore a rich tapestry of environments, providing opportunities for nature observation and outdoor activity.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Anoka County
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Anoka Nature Preserve Perimeter Loop, a 2.0 miles (3.2 km) trail that takes about 48 minutes to complete, winding through forests and wetlands along the Rum River.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Blaine Wetland Sanctuary Path and Boardwalk, an easy 4.4 miles (7.1 km) path. This route offers scenic views of wetland habitats and includes boardwalk sections.
- Local hikers also love the Centerville Lake via Golf Course Loop, a 9.6 miles (15.4 km) trail leading through varied terrain around Centerville Lake, often completed in about 3 hours 56 minutes.
- Hiking in Anoka County is defined by scenic river corridors, expansive prairies, and critical wetland areas. The network offers a range of options, from easy, flat paths ideal for families to more moderate trails with gentle elevation changes.
- The routes in Anoka County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 40 reviews. More than 1,400 hikers have used komoot to explore Anoka County's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 10, 2026
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Hike the easy 2.0-mile Anoka Nature Preserve Perimeter Loop, featuring diverse habitats and picturesque views along the Rum River.
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01:48
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The Blaine Wetland Sanctuary Path and Boardwalk offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Minnesota's diverse ecosystems. You'll find yourself strolling along an extensive boardwalk system that floats above the wetlands, providing unparalleled views of aquatic life and a unique fen wetland. Beyond the boardwalk, well-maintained dirt and gravel paths lead through wooded areas and meadows, making for an easy 4.4-mile (7.1 km) hike with only 35 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 47 minutes.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Blaine Wetland Sanctuary boardwalk is wheelchair accessible, making it a great family-friendly option. While you can enjoy the sanctuary year-round, with winter offering snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, remember that mosquitoes can be active during warmer evenings and mornings. Ample parking is available at the trailhead, and the best time to hike Blaine Wetland Sanctuary depends on what you want to see, from spring wildflowers to autumn colors.
This sanctuary is a true biological supermarket, protecting a unique fen wetland that harbors rare plant species and serves as a haven for wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for Great Blue Herons, Sandhill Cranes, and other migratory birds, especially during spring and summer. Interpretive signs along the route enhance the educational experience, highlighting the ecological significance of this special place.
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Hiking the Rum River Regional Trail offers a moderate 7.2-mile journey through woods and prairie along the scenic Rum River.
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The Centerville Lake via Golf Course Loop offers a delightful and accessible hike within the expansive Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve. You'll enjoy consistent views of Centerville Lake, traverse through sections of deciduous trees, and cross boardwalk bridges over wetlands. The route is largely paved, making it a smooth journey, and you'll even pass through the Chomonix Golf Course, adding an unexpected element to the natural surroundings. It's a great option for a longer, less strenuous outing.
Planning your visit to this popular trail is straightforward. The route is considered moderate, covering 9.6 miles (15.4 km) with a minimal 148 feet (45 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 3 hours and 55 minutes to complete. Dogs are permitted on the trail as long as they are on a leash, making it a family-friendly hike. Keep in mind that the trail is not open for hiking during the winter season, so plan your trip for warmer months to fully enjoy the experience.
This trail is a local favorite, highly rated for its scenic beauty and accessibility, especially for those seeking a longer walk without significant climbs. It's part of the larger Rice Creek North Regional Trail system, offering opportunities to explore more of the park's diverse ecosystems, characterized by lakes and wetlands. Centerville Lake itself is known for its fishing opportunities and features a beach, adding to the appeal of the area within Anoka County.
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The Bunker Hills Rustic Loop Campground trail offers a delightful journey through Minnesota's unique landscape, where you'll encounter everything from rare oak savannas to ancient sand dunes. The scenery constantly changes, moving from dense hardwood forests to serene wetlands, often featuring picturesque boardwalks. You might even spot wildlife like deer or various bird species, giving the area an 'up north look and vibe' despite its urban setting.
This easy 3.2-mile (5.1 km) hiking route, with a minimal 44 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 18 minutes to complete, making it ideal for beginners or families. The trail is well-maintained and accessible, but if you plan to explore the broader Bunker Hills Regional Park hiking terrain, a map is recommended as some intersections can be unmarked. Parking is readily available at the campground.
Beyond the loop, Bunker Hills Regional Park is a hub for ecological diversity, preserving one of Minnesota's few remaining oak savannas and offering extensive trails. It's a great spot for wildlife spotting, especially during quieter times of the day. The park's varied topography, shaped by ancient sand dunes, provides a unique natural backdrop for your hike.
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Tips from the Community
Over 500 acres of wetlands are protected in this sanctuary, with an extensive boardwalk trail that runs through it. There is access to the boardwalk trail directly via Lexington Avenue or through the hard trail that starts on the east end of East Lake Park.
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Located near the Bunker Hills Veteran Memorial, this tank is an M41 Walker Bulldog. It was named for Gen. Walton Walker, who was killed in a jeep accident in Korea in November 1950. The tank saw action in both the Korean and Vietnam wars. It had a crew of four. Its primary armament was a 76 mm M32 gun. It had an operational range of 100 miles at a speed of 45 mph.
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The loop trail around the perimeter of the Anoka Nature Preserve is about 2 miles long. Here is a link to more information on the Anoka Nature Preserve: http://anokanaturepreserve.org/.
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The Anoka Nature Preserve features over 200 acres of woodlands, meadows, and forests. Wide gravel trails pass through the property, making this a great spot to check out on two wheels.
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What you see are the remnants of the Windego Park Auditorium amphitheater, an open-air theater built in 1914 that fell into disuse shortly thereafter. Despite several attempts, it has not been restored, and all that remains are its seating and the orchestra pit.
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With a campground, fishing piers, hiking and biking trails, and playgrounds, this 5,500 acre park has something for everyone. Its proximity to the Twin Cities means it does get busy, but its size means you can usually find a quiet spot if you look for one.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Anoka County?
Anoka County offers a great selection of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features 17 routes, with 13 classified as easy and 4 as moderate, ensuring there's something suitable for families of all activity levels.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family-friendly hikes in Anoka County?
You'll find a diverse range of terrain, from paved paths and gravel trails to natural surface trails winding through dense forests, open prairies, and wetlands. While Anoka County is generally flat, parks like Rum River Central Regional Park offer some of the largest hills for varied terrain. Many trails, such as the Anoka Nature Preserve Perimeter Loop, combine different landscapes for an engaging experience.
What is the best time of year for family hikes in Anoka County?
Anoka County is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and vibrant wildlife. Fall is particularly stunning with changing leaf colors, making trails like those in Bunker Hills Regional Park very scenic. Even in winter, many trails, including those at the Anoka Nature Preserve, are groomed for snowshoeing and walking, offering a unique experience.
Are there any interesting landmarks or natural features to see along family-friendly trails?
Absolutely! Anoka County's trails often follow the scenic Mississippi and Rum Rivers. You can explore highlights like the Anoka–Champlin Mississippi River Bridge or the Islands of Peace. The Rum River Regional Trail itself is a highlight, offering historical markers and river views. Many routes pass through diverse ecosystems, providing opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly hiking in Anoka County?
The komoot community highly rates hiking in Anoka County, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 44 ratings. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained trails, the peaceful natural settings, and the variety of landscapes, from riverbanks to wetlands and forests, making it ideal for families seeking accessible outdoor adventures.
Are there any stroller-friendly or wheelchair-accessible trails?
Yes, many parks in Anoka County feature paved or well-maintained gravel trails that are suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. For example, the Blaine Wetland Sanctuary Path and Boardwalk offers an accessible experience through a unique wetland environment. The Rum River Regional Trail also provides paved sections.
Can we bring our dog on these family-friendly hikes?
Many parks and trails in Anoka County are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before you go. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash. Always remember to clean up after your pet to keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.
Are there any loop trails suitable for families?
Yes, loop trails are excellent for families as they bring you back to your starting point without retracing steps. The Anoka Nature Preserve Perimeter Loop is a great example, offering a manageable distance through varied scenery. Many regional parks also feature interconnected trail systems that allow for creating your own loop routes.
Where can we find parking for these family-friendly trails?
Most regional parks and trailheads in Anoka County offer dedicated parking facilities. Popular spots like Bunker Hills Regional Park and Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park have ample parking. It's always a good idea to check the specific park's website or the komoot route details for parking information before your visit.
Are there options for public transport to reach family-friendly trailheads?
Public transportation options to Anoka County parks and trails can vary. While some major regional trails, like sections of the Rum River Regional Trail, might be accessible via local bus routes, direct access to all trailheads might be limited. We recommend checking the Metro Transit website for specific route planning to your desired starting point.
Are there any trails that offer good opportunities for wildlife spotting?
Anoka County's diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and river corridors, provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Trails through the Anoka Nature Preserve and the Blaine Wetland Sanctuary are particularly good for birdwatching and observing wetland creatures. Keep an eye out for deer, various bird species, and other small animals.
Which trails are good for a longer family outing?
For families looking for a longer adventure, routes like the Rum River Regional Trail or the Centerville Lake via Golf Course Loop offer moderate distances that can be enjoyed by active families. These trails provide extended exploration through scenic landscapes, perfect for a full day out.
What are some easy, short family hikes?
For shorter, easier outings perfect for young children or a quick stroll, consider trails like the Bunker Hills Rustic Loop Campground route. Many parks also have shorter, paved loops or boardwalks that are ideal for a gentle family walk.
Most popular routes in Anoka County
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