4.6
(2334)
5,761
hikers
Quarry Park Outer Loop
01:07
4.39km
10m
Hiking
The Quarry Park Outer Loop offers a fascinating and easy hike through a landscape shaped by both nature and industry. As you traverse this 2.7-mile (4.4 km) route, you'll discover a unique blend of scenic woodlands, open prairie, and wetlands, all interspersed with the striking remnants of former granite quarries. Many of these quarries are now filled with crystal-clear water, creating beautiful reflecting pools, and you'll even pass by the historic Melrose Deep Seven Quarry, making for a truly distinctive outdoor experience.
Planning your visit is straightforward, though a vehicle parking permit is required for entry. The park welcomes visitors year-round from 8:00 AM until a half-hour after sunset, giving you ample time to explore. While the 45 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain is minimal, making it an easy hike that takes about 1 hour and 7 minutes, some sections involve navigating over rock boulders, so be sure to wear appropriate shoes for comfort and safety.
What truly sets Quarry Park apart is its rich history and diverse offerings beyond just hiking. The park is home to twenty former granite quarries, with two, Quarry #2 and Quarry #11, designated for swimming and even cliff jumping. You can also explore the Scientific and Natural Area, which preserves unique bedrock outcrop communities and diverse plant life, or visit the Liberty Derrick exhibit to learn about Minnesota's granite quarrying past. This blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities makes it a standout destination.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Historic Granite Quarry Saw Blade
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
1.30 km
Quarry Park Scientific and Natural Area
Highlight • Natural
If you look back much further in time, the story of this granite begins with a mountain‑building event known as the Penokean Orogeny. This event started about 1.9 billion years ago, when the collision of two continents greatly thickened the continental crust. Geologist Terry Boerboom of the Minnesota Geological Survey explains: “As this over‑thickened crust collapsed and thinned, high‑temperature magma welled up from the earth’s mantle and pooled beneath it. The addition of the magma to the already hot base of the crust caused it to melt and mingle with the underlying magma from the mantle. Batches of this mixture rose upward to a depth of about 10 miles below the surface, where it slowly cooled to form the granite. The different colors of granite reflect the varied degrees to which the two different magma sources were mixed.”
Tip by
1.91 km
Trebtousky Quarry
Lake
3.25 km
Melrose Deep Seven Quarry
Highlight • Lake
4.39 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.79 km
314 m
290 m
Surfaces
3.01 km
701 m
356 m
193 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 1 July
27°C
17°C
94 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike the Quarry Park Outer Loop?
This loop is approximately 4.4 kilometers (2.7 miles) long and typically takes about 1 hour and 7 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace. Keep in mind that this duration doesn't include stops for admiring the scenery or exploring highlights.
Is the Quarry Park Outer Loop suitable for beginners?
Yes, this trail is rated as easy and is generally suitable for beginners. While the park features diverse terrain including some paths with moderate climbs to overlooks, the Outer Loop itself has very little elevation gain, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
What is the terrain like on this route?
The terrain on this route is varied, traversing through forests, wetlands, and prairies. You might encounter boardwalks in boggy areas and some sections that are pretty level. The park also features remnants of its mining past, including large rock piles known as grout piles.
What can I see along the route?
Along the way, you'll encounter several interesting features. You can see the Historic Granite Quarry Saw Blade, explore the natural beauty of the Quarry Park Scientific and Natural Area, and pass by the striking Melrose Deep Seven Quarry, now filled with water. The park also offers observation decks with scenic vistas over the quarries and meadows.
Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Winter Trail and the Floating bridge trail within Quarry Park and Nature Preserve.
Is Quarry Park Outer Loop dog-friendly?
Quarry Park and Nature Preserve is generally dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.
What is the best time of year to visit Quarry Park and Nature Preserve?
The park is beautiful year-round, but autumn is particularly stunning when the leaves display vibrant colors. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and opportunities for other activities like swimming, while winter allows for cross-country skiing on designated trails.
Are there any entrance fees or permits required for Quarry Park and Nature Preserve?
There are no entrance fees to access Quarry Park and Nature Preserve. However, some specific activities or facilities within the park might require permits or reservations, so it's always a good idea to check the park's official website if you plan on engaging in activities beyond hiking.
Where can I park to access the trailhead?
Quarry Park and Nature Preserve has several parking areas available for visitors. The main parking lot is typically well-marked and provides direct access to various trailheads, including those leading to the Outer Loop. Specific directions can usually be found on the park's official website or mapping services.
What other activities can I do at Quarry Park and Nature Preserve?
Beyond hiking, Quarry Park offers a wide range of activities. You can enjoy swimming and cliff jumping in designated quarries, rock climbing, trout fishing, and scuba diving. In the winter, the park is popular for cross-country skiing.
Are there any viewpoints or landmarks along the trail?
Yes, the park features several observation decks that offer scenic vistas over the water-filled quarries and surrounding meadows. The historic grout piles, some reaching 40-60 feet high, are also unique landmarks reflecting the park's past as a granite mine.
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