Minnehaha Creek Parkway - a river running through a lush green forest
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Minnehaha Creek Parkway

4.6
·174 reviews·Minneapolis, United States

A serene urban forest escape along a winding creek, offering miles of trails for walking, biking, and paddling.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming trees and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Minnehaha Creek Parkway - a river running through a lush green forest

Minnehaha Creek Parkway

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming trees and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene urban forest escape along a winding creek, offering miles of trails for walking, biking, and paddling.

4.6
(174 reviews)

"Escape into the wilderness without ever leaving the city – a true treasure in our city parks."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot or Bike

Miles of beautiful trails perfect for walking, running, or biking [^Review]. New bike paths are being added .

🛶 Check Paddle Conditions

Use the official creek website for maps and water levels before you paddle .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 'Tree Tunnel' on Minnehaha Parkway

The 'Tree Tunnel' on Minnehaha Parkway

Near Cedar Avenue

A magical canopy of flowering crabapple, cherry, and serviceberry trees creates a stunning natural tunnel.

Minnehaha Creek Waterfalls

Minnehaha Creek Waterfalls

Minnehaha Regional Park

While not the main focus of the parkway, the iconic Minnehaha Falls are a short distance away and a must-see.

Canoeing/Kayaking Adventures

Canoeing/Kayaking Adventures

Various access points along the creek

Navigate serene stretches or thrilling 'tunnels of darkness' for a unique water-based exploration.

TikTok
Dog-Friendly Off-Leash Park

Dog-Friendly Off-Leash Park

Near the parkway

A spacious area where dogs can roam and play freely, a big hit with canine visitors [^Review].

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Seasons

Minnehaha Creek Parkway transforms throughout the year. Spring brings blooming trees,Instagram summer offers lush greenery, fall paints the landscape in vibrant colors,Instagram and winter provides a serene, snowy escape.TikTok Plan your visit to catch your preferred natural spectacle.

Water Levels Matter for Paddlers

If you're planning to canoe or kayak, especially through the more adventurous sections,TikTok check water levels. The official Minnehaha Creek website offers maps and current conditions.Reddit High water after rain can be ideal for floating.Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Blooming trees and fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Golden hour light on the creek
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Vibrant foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Crosby Farm Regional Park is such a gorgeous nature walk! 🌳 follow me for more hidden gems! #saintpaul #minnesota #saintpaulminnesota #walz #mn #msp #mpls #stpaul #stpaulminnesota #nature #forest #trees #hiddengem
@girbloss2000
115.7K likes • 1.7M views

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot or Bike

Miles of beautiful trails perfect for walking, running, or biking [^Review]. New bike paths are being added.Instagram

🛶 Check Paddle Conditions

Use the official creek website for maps and water levels before you paddle.Reddit

Taking a nice workday walk like a good Minnesotan #minnesota #minneapolis #winter #minnehahacreek #mn #mpls #spring #snow #edina
@zanelud
27.3K likes • 178.3K views
It’s a great time to enjoy flowering trees! One unique spot is on Minnehaha Parkway Regional Trail, near Cedar Avenue. The “tree tunnel” near Minnehaha Creek is comprised of flowering crabapple trees. We recently planted more flowering crabapples there, along with flowering cherry trees and serviceberry, which are also currently flowering! #MinneapolisParks #MplsParks #Minneapolis #Mpls #Minneha...
minneapolisparks
579 likes • 11.8K views

🌳 Discover Hidden Forests

Experience a true urban wilderness escape with native plants and trees [^Review].

🐶 Bring Your Furry Friend

The large off-leash dog park is a major draw for pet owners [^Review].

Part Three of Kayaking Minnehaha Creek: Utley Park to Minnehaha Creek Parkway After getting back in my kayak after getting tipped by the unfortunate log at Utley, the rest of this section was much easier with most deadfall cleared away and only a few boulders to dodge. It began to feel less like kayaking through the city and more like kayaking through secluded woods in between some of the fancies...
pines_to_prairie
4 likes • 149 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot or Bike

Miles of beautiful trails perfect for walking, running, or biking [^Review]. New bike paths are being added.Instagram

🛶 Check Paddle Conditions

Use the official creek website for maps and water levels before you paddle.Reddit

🌳 Discover Hidden Forests

Experience a true urban wilderness escape with native plants and trees [^Review].

🐶 Bring Your Furry Friend

The large off-leash dog park is a major draw for pet owners [^Review].

📸 Capture the Scenery

Beautiful natural settings offer great photo opportunities year-round.Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(174 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Minnehaha Creek Parkway as a beautiful, natural escape within the city, perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying the creek's scenery. Many appreciate the abundance of trees, the seasonal beauty, and the dedicated off-leash dog park. While generally well-maintained, some minor trail upkeep is noted.

"Miles of walking trails along a lovely creek with native plants and flowers. This is a hidden forest in the middle of the city, best seen when the trees are leafed out so the nearby streets are out of view. For three seasons of the year it's a sanctuary."

Jacque G

"Walking, running, biking, or whatever you prefer: do it here if you’re close by. Some small parts need maintenance, but it’s beautiful!"

Jordan Hadley

"Too many people in Minneapolis, who've never had the opportunity to visit other cities here in the States, don't grasp how fortunate we Minnesotans are, to have such a treasure in our city parks. We can escape into the wilderness without ever leaving the city. I suggest a hike from Franklin Ave. - 46th Street along the West Bank of the Mississippi. The walk along the top of the bluff has beautifully maintained and paved paths, while the opportunity to climb through lesser developed terrain lies just between the path and the river."

Anthony Fokken

What People Like

Beautiful urban nature escape
Great for walking/biking
Lovely creek scenery

What People Dislike

Minor trail maintenance needed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Minnehaha Creek Parkway is accessible by car, with various parking areas along its length. Public transportation options are also available, with bus routes serving areas near the parkway. Many visitors also arrive by bike, as it connects to the wider Minneapolis bike trail network.Instagram

Yes, there are several parking lots and street parking options available along the parkway, particularly near trailheads and popular spots like Minnehaha Regional Park.TikTok

Absolutely! Minnehaha Creek Parkway runs through Minneapolis, offering easy access from many neighborhoods. It's a beloved local spot for residents.TikTok

The main paved trails along Minnehaha Creek Parkway are generally stroller-friendly, making it accessible for families with young children [^Review].

The parkway is ideal for walking, running, and biking [^Review]. You can also enjoy it by canoe or kayak on the creek.TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Minnehaha Creek Parkway is a public park and does not require an entrance fee or ticket for general access to the trails and creek areas [^Review].

The parkway and its trails are generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific facilities within Minnehaha Regional Park may have their own hours.

While parkway access is free, activities like bike rentals or visiting specific attractions within Minnehaha Regional Park might have associated fees.TikTok

Yes, dogs are welcome on the parkway, and there's a large off-leash dog park that's very popular [^Review]. Please ensure dogs are leashed in other areas and clean up after them.

Yes, the parkway is accessible year-round, offering different beautiful experiences in each season, from spring blooms Instagram to winter snow.TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Don't miss the 'tree tunnel' near Cedar Avenue,Instagram the various scenic points along the creek, and the nearby Minnehaha Falls.TikTok For adventurers, the 'tunnels of darkness' for canoeing are unique.TikTok

You can often spot various bird species, including ducks,TikTok and other small urban wildlife as you explore the natural habitats along the creek.

Restroom facilities are available, particularly within Minnehaha Regional Park and at some trail access points.

Activities include walking, running, biking, picnicking, birdwatching, and paddling on the creek.TikTokInstagram There's also a popular off-leash dog park [^Review].

For the most part, yes, but it's crucial to check water conditions and be aware of potential obstacles like fallen trees or low water levels.TikTokReddit Some sections can be challenging.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Minnehaha Regional Park has a restaurant,TikTok and there are numerous dining options in the surrounding Minneapolis neighborhoods. Picnicking is also a popular choice.

Absolutely! There are many scenic spots perfect for a picnic along the parkway and within the adjacent parks.

You'll find various cafes and coffee shops in the neighborhoods bordering Minnehaha Creek Parkway, offering a chance to refuel.

📸 📸 Photography

The 'tree tunnel' in spring,Instagram the creek itself with its bridges and natural beauty, and the nearby Minnehaha Falls TikTok are prime photography locations. Fall foliage also offers stunning shots.Instagram

Yes, it's a fantastic urban nature escape with diverse flora and fauna, making it ideal for nature photographers [^Review].

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a beautiful glow on the landscape.

The parkway features some beautiful historic homes,TikTok+1 and while you can photograph them from public spaces, be mindful of private property.

Generally, personal photography is allowed. For commercial or professional shoots, it's advisable to check with the Minneapolis Parks Foundation.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Minnehaha Creek Parkway is a fantastic destination for families. The paved trails are generally stroller-friendly, making it easy to explore with little ones [^Review]. The parkway offers a chance to connect with nature, spot local wildlife like ducks,TikTok and enjoy open spaces for play. Consider a picnic lunch to make the outing even more enjoyable. The nearby Minnehaha Regional Park also offers additional amenities and the impressive Minnehaha Falls, which are always a hit with children.TikTok

🐶 Dog Owners

This parkway is a paradise for dog owners! The large, dedicated off-leash dog park is a major highlight, allowing your furry friends to run and play freely [^Review]. Remember to keep dogs leashed when not in the designated off-leash area and always clean up after them. The extensive trail system also provides plenty of opportunities for enjoyable walks and runs with your leashed canine companions.

🛶 Adventurous Paddlers

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Minnehaha Creek by Water

Paddling down Minnehaha Creek offers a unique perspective of the urban landscape transforming into a natural sanctuary. While sections are serene and easily navigable, some parts present more of an adventure. TikTok creators have highlighted the thrilling, albeit dark, 'tunnels of darkness',TikTok which can be an exciting challenge for experienced paddlers. It's essential to consult the official Minnehaha Creek website for maps and current water conditions before setting out, as water levels can significantly impact the experience.Reddit

Access points vary, and Redditors suggest checking the official resources for the best launch spots.Reddit The journey can range from a leisurely float to a more demanding paddle, depending on the chosen route and water flow. Be prepared for potential obstacles like fallen trees or shallow areas, especially after periods of heavy rain.Instagram The experience is often described as a 'fluke ride' when water levels are just right, offering a unique amusement park-like thrill.TikTok

The Parkway's Natural Beauty and Seasonal Charm

Minnehaha Creek Parkway is celebrated as a 'hidden forest in the middle of the city' [^Review], offering a refreshing escape with its native plants and trees. Instagram reels showcase the stunning 'tree tunnel' effect created by flowering crabapple, cherry, and serviceberry trees, particularly vibrant in the spring.Instagram This natural canopy provides shade and beauty throughout the warmer months, making it a favorite for walkers and bikers [^Review].

Each season brings its own charm. Spring bursts with blossoms, summer offers lush greenery, fall transforms the parkway into a canvas of vibrant colors,Instagram and winter provides a tranquil, snowy landscape.TikTok The parkway is described as a sanctuary for three seasons of the year [^Review], highlighting its consistent appeal. Even with some areas needing minor maintenance [^Review], the overall beauty and the feeling of being immersed in nature without leaving the city are consistently praised.

Community and Recreation Hub

Beyond its natural beauty, Minnehaha Creek Parkway serves as a vital community and recreation hub. The parkway is a popular spot for walking, running, and biking, with ongoing trail improvements enhancing the experience.Instagram For dog owners, the large off-leash park is a significant draw, ensuring canine companions get ample exercise and socialization [^Review].

The creek itself is a focal point for recreational activities, with opportunities for canoeing and kayaking.TikTokInstagram The annual Minnehaha Creek Duck Race is a fun community event.TikTok The presence of historic and architecturally interesting homes along the parkway TikTok+1 adds another layer of local character, making it a place where nature, recreation, and community life intertwine.

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