Lake Nokomis-Minnesota River Regional Trail

The trail begins at the picturesque south shore of Lake Nokomis. You can find parking areas around Lake Nokomis, including near Taft Park, which is a good starting point for your hike.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! Dogs are permitted on the trail, but please ensure they are kept on a leash at all times to respect other users and local wildlife.

The trail is accessible year-round. For pleasant hiking conditions, spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for warmer weather. Winter hiking is possible, but conditions may vary, so check local reports.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Lake Nokomis-Minnesota River Regional Trail itself. It is a public regional trail.

The trail is primarily a paved, multi-use path, offering a smooth surface suitable for hiking, biking, and other activities. It features slight elevation changes, including a notable section at its southern end that leads "down, down, down to the river."

You'll experience diverse scenery, starting at Lake Nokomis with its native vegetation and beaches. As you continue, you'll pass through residential areas, various parks, and even glimpse commercial areas near the Mall of America and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. A significant draw is the connection to natural areas like the Minnesota River Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Fort Snelling State Park. Don't miss the Taft Park Lake and Fishing Dock near the start.

Absolutely! The Lake Nokomis-Minnesota River Regional Trail is generally considered easy, with a "white difficulty" rating. Its paved surface and relatively flat profile make it a nice, casual trail suitable for a wide range of hikers, including beginners and families.

Yes, this regional trail is a vital link within the Twin Cities' extensive trail network. At its northern end, it joins the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway. It also provides connections to the Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail and, at its southern terminus, to the Minnesota River Greenway. Sections of the route also pass through the Richfield Bicycle Routes and various segments of the Lake Nokomis-Minnesota River Regional Trail itself.

Taft Park is a public park, and generally, there are no entrance fees. Standard park regulations apply, such as keeping dogs on a leash and respecting park hours. It's a great spot to access the trail and enjoy the Taft Park Lake and Fishing Dock.

Given its location within the Twin Cities, the trail is accessible via public transportation. You can check the local Metro Transit website for bus routes that serve the Lake Nokomis area or the vicinity of Taft Park, providing convenient access to the northern trailhead.

As the trail connects to natural areas like the Minnesota River Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Fort Snelling State Park, you have opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for various bird species, especially near Lake Nokomis and the river valley, as well as small mammals.