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Hiking trails & Routes

Dakota County

Empire Lake loop

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Dakota County

Empire Lake loop

Easy

hikers

Empire Lake loop

Q: What is the terrain like on the Empire Lake loop?

The trail offers varied terrain, including paved sections, dirt paths, and a boardwalk that crosses a marsh. You'll encounter gentle rolling hills and often finish through a meadow. The paths are generally well-maintained.

Q: Is this trail suitable for families or beginners?

Yes, the Empire Lake loop is widely considered an easy to moderate trail, making it a great family-friendly option. The hills are gentle, providing a manageable yet rewarding hike.

Q: What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect to see?

You'll enjoy serene views of Empire Lake , expansive hilltop prairie views, and dense forests with oak and maple trees. The park also features wetlands and meadows that bloom with wildflowers. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, red-tailed hawks, and various songbirds.

Q: Where can I park to access the Empire Lake loop?

The trail is located within Whitetail Woods Regional Park. There is convenient parking available at the trailhead, which also offers amenities like flush toilets, a covered picnic area, and a playground.

Q: Are dogs allowed on the trail?

The research indicates that Whitetail Woods Regional Park trails are generally dog-friendly, but always ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them to respect other hikers and wildlife.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this route?

The Empire Lake loop is designed to be accessible for hiking throughout the year . Spring and early summer are particularly beautiful for wildflowers, while fall offers vibrant foliage. Even in winter, it's a viable hiking option.

Q: Are there any fees or permits required to hike in Whitetail Woods Regional Park?

Generally, Dakota County parks, including Whitetail Woods Regional Park, do not require entrance fees or permits for day-use hiking. However, it's always a good idea to check the official park website for any updated regulations before your visit.

Q: Does this trail connect with other paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Farm Loop trail, covering about 25% of its length.

Q: Are there any notable viewpoints or landmarks along the way?

Absolutely! The trail features multiple viewpoints, including a specific overlook with benches that provides picturesque views of Empire Lake and the surrounding landscape. You'll also pass by the Whitetail Woods Regional Park Pavilion and Trails .

Q: What amenities are available at the trailhead?

The trailhead at Whitetail Woods Regional Park is well-equipped with convenient amenities, including flush toilets, a covered picnic area, and a playground, making it a comfortable starting point for your hike.

01:36

6.07km

50m

Hiking

Hike the easy 3.8-mile Empire Lake loop in Whitetail Woods Regional Park, featuring lake views, forests, and meadows.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

49 m

Whitetail Woods Regional Park Pavilion and Trails

Highlight • Rest Area

Whitetail Woods Regional Park is a 456-acre park that features more than 10 miles of summer trails and 5 miles of winter trails for snowshoeing and winter hikes. The park …

Tip by

2.28 km

Empire Lake

Highlight • Lake

This is a very peaceful lake with plenty of dirt trails surrounding it, allowing you to enjoy the sights from all angles. There's also a boardwalk in the area that takes you through the wetland area of the lake.

Tip by

6.07 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.98 km

2.05 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

3.98 km

1.72 km

284 m

< 100 m

Elevation

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Weather

Sunday 5 July

29°C

18°C

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the terrain like on the Empire Lake loop?

The trail offers varied terrain, including paved sections, dirt paths, and a boardwalk that crosses a marsh. You'll encounter gentle rolling hills and often finish through a meadow. The paths are generally well-maintained.

Is this trail suitable for families or beginners?

Yes, the Empire Lake loop is widely considered an easy to moderate trail, making it a great family-friendly option. The hills are gentle, providing a manageable yet rewarding hike.

What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect to see?

You'll enjoy serene views of Empire Lake, expansive hilltop prairie views, and dense forests with oak and maple trees. The park also features wetlands and meadows that bloom with wildflowers. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, red-tailed hawks, and various songbirds.

Where can I park to access the Empire Lake loop?

The trail is located within Whitetail Woods Regional Park. There is convenient parking available at the trailhead, which also offers amenities like flush toilets, a covered picnic area, and a playground.

Are dogs allowed on the trail?

The research indicates that Whitetail Woods Regional Park trails are generally dog-friendly, but always ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them to respect other hikers and wildlife.

What is the best time of year to hike this route?

The Empire Lake loop is designed to be accessible for hiking throughout the year. Spring and early summer are particularly beautiful for wildflowers, while fall offers vibrant foliage. Even in winter, it's a viable hiking option.

Are there any fees or permits required to hike in Whitetail Woods Regional Park?

Generally, Dakota County parks, including Whitetail Woods Regional Park, do not require entrance fees or permits for day-use hiking. However, it's always a good idea to check the official park website for any updated regulations before your visit.

Does this trail connect with other paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Farm Loop trail, covering about 25% of its length.

Are there any notable viewpoints or landmarks along the way?

Absolutely! The trail features multiple viewpoints, including a specific overlook with benches that provides picturesque views of Empire Lake and the surrounding landscape. You'll also pass by the Whitetail Woods Regional Park Pavilion and Trails.

What amenities are available at the trailhead?

The trailhead at Whitetail Woods Regional Park is well-equipped with convenient amenities, including flush toilets, a covered picnic area, and a playground, making it a comfortable starting point for your hike.

Can I adjust the length of the Empire Lake loop?

Yes, the park offers flexibility. Hikers can choose from different variations of the loop, with lengths typically ranging around 3 miles, 4 miles (6.5 km), or 5 miles (8 km) to suit their preferences.