Day Trips from Minneapolis
← All Minneapolis day tripsDay Trips from Minneapolis: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Minneapolis, MN. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Minneapolis
Jay Cooke State Park
Carlton, MN 55718
Just 2 hrs 12 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.9 stars by 3,760 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Two Harbors, MN 55616
Just 2 hrs 59 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.9 stars by 10,769 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Dalles of the Saint Croix River State Natural Area
Dresser, WI 54009
Just 1 hr 2 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.9 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Quarry Park Scientific and Natural Area
Waite Park, MN 56387
Just 1 hr 15 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.8 stars by 280 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Castle Mound Pine Forest
Black River Falls, WI 54615
Just 2 hrs 11 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.7 stars by 163 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Willow River Nature Center
#000, Hudson
Just 43 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.7 stars by 106 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Wood-Rill Scientific and Natural Area (SNA)
Wayzata, MN 55391
Just 21 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.7 stars by 112 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Quarry Park and Nature Preserve
Waite Park, MN 56387
Just 1 hr 10 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.7 stars by 1,770 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Wild River State Park
Center City, MN 55012
Just 58 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.7 stars by 1,011 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Willow River State Park
Hudson, WI 54016
Just 37 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.7 stars by 4,221 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hidden Falls
Nerstrand, MN 55053
Just 1 hr 4 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.7 stars by 455 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Maiden Rock Bluff State Natural Area
Stockholm, WI 54769
Just 1 hr 18 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.6 stars by 189 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Minneapolis
What are the best hiking trails near Minneapolis, MN?
The best hikes near Minneapolis range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Minneapolis?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Minneapolis offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Minneapolis?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Minneapolis are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Minneapolis?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Minneapolis. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
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