1. Theodore Wirth Park

Nestled in the heart of Minneapolis just a handful of miles from our Mill City Running location, Theodore Wirth Park offers a diverse range of trails suitable for all skill levels. With over 20 miles of groomed trails winding through picturesque woodlands, this park is a favorite among local trail runners. Challenge yourself on the hilly terrain or opt for a leisurely jog around the tranquil lakes—either way, you're in for an unforgettable experience.

What Makes it Great:

• Miles of trails: 20+

• Distance from Minneapolis: 4 miles

• Distance from Saint Paul: 11 miles

• Hilliness rating: 7/10

• Admission: Free

2. Afton State Park

For those craving a more rugged adventure, Afton State Park is the perfect destination. Located just east of the Twin Cities, this sprawling park boasts miles of scenic trails that traverse wooded bluffs, rolling prairies, and the stunning St. Croix River. With options ranging from easy loops to challenging climbs, Afton State Park offers endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors. While a bit longer of a drive for many Twin Cities residents, this is a fan favorite especially for those looking to get some soft surface long runs.

• Miles of trails: 20

• Distance from Minneapolis: 25 miles

• Distance from Saint Paul: 16 miles

• Hilliness rating: 8/10

• Admission: Vehicles require $7 daily or $35 annual State Park Pass

3. Lebanon Hills Regional Park

South of the Twin Cities, Lebanon Hills Regional Park beckons with its pristine wilderness and well-maintained trails. Whether you're seeking a quick escape or a day-long excursion, this park has you covered. Explore dense forests, shimmering lakes, and rolling hills as you immerse yourself in nature's beauty. With over 2,000 acres to roam, Lebanon Hills is a haven for trail runners seeking solitude and serenity.

• Miles of trails: 20+

• Distance from Minneapolis: 19 miles

• Distance from Saint Paul: 12 miles

• Hilliness rating: 6/10

• Admission: Free

4. Hyland Lake Park Reserve

Located in Bloomington, Hyland Lake Park Reserve is a gem for trail runners. The park offers a variety of trails that meander through oak savannas, around picturesque lakes, and over gently rolling hills. It's a great spot for both short runs and longer, more challenging routes. If you want to tackle one of the steepest segments in all of the Twin Cities make sure to take a swing at running up the Hyland Ski hill.

• Miles of trails: 20

• Distance from Minneapolis: 15 miles

• Distance from Saint Paul: 19 miles

• Hilliness rating: 5/10

• Admission: Free

5. Fort Snelling State Park

An often overlooked option close to our Saint City Running location includes both Fort Snelling State Park and the Minnesota River Bottoms. Fort Snelling State Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, with trails winding through forests, next to lakes, and along the scenic confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers. We highly recommend checking out the 5k loop out on Pike Island for some surprising serenity directly between the Twin Cities. Experience the tranquility of this wild landscape as you run alongside the mighty river, surrounded by towering bluffs and lush forests. A pro tip is that you can loop in some trails just north by Cold Water Springs as well.

• Miles of trails: 18

• Distance from Minneapolis: 9 miles

• Distance from Saint Paul: 10 miles

• Hilliness rating: 4/10

• Admission: Vehicles require $7 daily or $35 annual State Park Pass

6. Minnesota River Bottoms

The Minnesota River Bottoms stretch along the southern edge of the Twin Cities, offering about 11 miles of picturesque trails that wind through lush forests and alongside the serene Minnesota River. This area is known for its relatively flat terrain, making it a great spot for those who are new to trail running. When you hit the trails at the Minnesota River Bottoms, you can expect a diverse running experience. The trails here are mostly singletrack, winding through dense forest areas and open spaces along the riverbank. The proximity to the river means you’ll often run alongside water, providing a refreshing and scenic backdrop to your run. As you run, keep an eye out for deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of bird species.

• Miles of trails: 20

• Distance from Minneapolis: 13 miles

• Distance from Saint Paul: 16 miles

• Hilliness rating: 1/10

• Admission: Free

7. Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve

Venture south of the Twin Cities to discover the rugged beauty of Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve. Boasting over 10 miles of challenging trails, this expansive park is a favorite among adventurous trail runners. Test your mettle on rocky terrain, steep climbs, and winding singletrack as you explore this hidden gem. With its remote location and scenic vistas, Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve gives the feel of true wilderness just minutes from the city. This is specially a great option for those runners looking to train on some steep elevation.

• Miles of trails: 10+

• Distance from Minneapolis: 24 miles

• Distance from Saint Paul: 23 miles

• Hilliness rating: 9/10

• Admission: Free

8. Crow-Hassan Park Reserve

For a true escape into nature, head to Crow-Hassan Park Reserve. Located on the northwestern edge of the Twin Cities, this park features miles of trails through prairies, woodlands, and along the Crow River. The wide-open spaces and peaceful surroundings make it a perfect spot for a long, uninterrupted run. This and the following park are especially great options close to North Minneapolis.

• Miles of trails: 17

• Distance from Minneapolis: 27 miles

• Distance from Saint Paul: 39 miles

• Hilliness rating: 6/10

• Admission: Free

9. Elm Creek Park Reserve

As one of the largest parks in the Twin Cities area, Elm Creek Park Reserve offers an extensive network of trails. Located in Maple Grove, the park features everything from gentle paths to more challenging routes through forests and wetlands. It's an ideal destination for trail runners looking for a mix of terrains and distances.

• Miles of trails: 20+

• Distance from Minneapolis: 22 miles

• Distance from Saint Paul: 28 miles

• Hilliness rating: 4/10

• Admission: Free

10. Battle Creek Regional Park

East of St. Paul, Battle Creek Regional Park offers a variety of trails that cater to different running abilities. The park’s diverse landscape includes wooded areas and sections of oak savanna. With its well-maintained trails and scenic beauty, Battle Creek is a fantastic spot for both beginners and experienced trail runners. This park certainly offers plenty of elevation and hills for those looking to tackle some vert. We do recommend keeping your eyes and ears open as you do share many of these trails with mountain bikes. Ensure on sections that are one way you are traveling in the correct direction and yielding when expected to.

• Miles of trails: 10

• Distance from Minneapolis: 13 miles

• Distance from Saint Paul: 7 miles

• Hilliness rating: 7/10

• Admission: Free