Biking in the Twin Cities

The Minneapolis metro area may be known for cool temps and record snowfalls, but it’s also one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country. Redfin ranks Minneapolis No. 1 ahead of cycle-heavy cities like Chicago, Portland, and Denver. 

One of the best Minnesota summer activities is to enjoy the seasonable weather on two wheels. From paved trails to bike boulevards, these popular Minnesota biking trails will ensure you experience the full Twin Cities metro area for your commute, workout, or just for fun. 

Head to the Lakes

The Chain of Lakes tops most Twin Cities bike maps. This 15-mile route through the City of Lakes takes riders along the shorelines of Lake of the Isles, Bda Maka Ska (formerly Lake Calhoun), Lake Harriet and more. You’ll get beautiful views of the water with multiple options for shorter laps or the full route. 

Another biking trail near this area is the expansive Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway. This 50-mile byway is one of the longest continuous systems of public urban parkways, crossing through seven segments of Minneapolis.

Connect through Midtown

The 5.5-mile Midtown Greenway is a great option for connecting to other popular Minnesota biking trails. This paved trail through south Minneapolis goes from the Mississippi River to Bde Maka Ska and through Uptown. It then connects to the Cedar Lake Regional Trail (temporarily closed for light-rail construction), Kenilworth Trail, and Cedar Lake Trail. 

Need a quick repair or bathroom break? The most bike-friendly city has you covered with Freewheel Midtown Bike Center right on the Greenway across from the Midtown Global Market. 

Cut from North to South

Theodore Wirth Parkway is a staple on any Twin Cities bike map. It brings riders right through Theodore Wirth Regional Park, the largest park in the Minneapolis park system. Expert bikers can explore the Brownie Lake Loop, a 1.5-mile route that includes steep rock climbs and descents. And don’t miss the more than five miles of off-road trails, which are open year-round.

For a less challenging route, intermediate bikers can try the one-mile South Loop or Glenwood Spur, both accessible from Theodore Wirth Parkway.

St. Paul Rides

Next door to the most bike-friendly city, St. Paul is home to many popular Minnesota biking trails. For a shady and quiet ride, check out the Gateway State Trail. The paved, nearly one-mile Harriet Island Regional Park Trail offers up beautiful views of the Mississippi River and the St. Paul skyline. 

It’s also the start of the Cherokee Trail, connecting Harriet Island Regional Park and Cherokee Regional Park. Don’t miss the Highland Bridge Overlook for a picturesque look at downtown St. Paul. For a great Minnesota summer activity, pack a picnic for Cherokee Park.

Head Out West

If you’re looking for biking trails near the west metro, check out the Luce Line. It includes a regional trail from Minneapolis to Plymouth and a state trail between Plymouth and Winsted, and then Winsted to Cedar Mills. They’re each highly rated with a variety of surfaces and landscapes. Add the Luce Line to your Minnesota summer activity bucket list, and you’ll get to see urban Minneapolis all the way through the suburbs, wetlands and into the countryside. 

For a comprehensive list of biking trails near you, check out this Twin Cities bike map covering popular Minnesota biking trails.

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