Day Trips from St. Cloud
← All St. Cloud day tripsDay Trips from St. Cloud: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of St. Cloud, 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.
11 hiking trails near St. Cloud
Jay Cooke State Park
Carlton, MN 55718
Just 2 hrs 16 min from St. Cloud, 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.
Dalles of the Saint Croix River State Natural Area
Dresser, WI 54009
Just 1 hr 37 min from St. Cloud, 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.
Interstate State Park
Taylors Falls, MN 55084
Just 1 hr 33 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.8 stars by 4,447 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 1 hr 24 min from St. Cloud, 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.
Fort Snelling State Park
St Paul, MN 55111
Just 1 hr 16 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.7 stars by 2,684 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 2 hrs 3 min from St. Cloud, 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.
Willow River State Park
Hudson, WI 54016
Just 1 hr 35 min from St. Cloud, 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 Regional Park
St Paul, MN 55116
Just 1 hr 20 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.6 stars by 1,410 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.
Maiden Rock Bluff State Natural Area
Stockholm, WI 54769
Just 2 hrs 17 min from St. Cloud, 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.
Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
St Paul, MN 55102
Just 1 hr 13 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.6 stars by 7,062 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.
Seven Sisters Prairie
W95 44, 746 MN-78
Just 1 hr 35 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.6 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from St. Cloud
What are the best hiking trails near St. Cloud, MN?
The best hikes near St. Cloud 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 St. Cloud?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near St. Cloud 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 St. Cloud?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near St. Cloud 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 St. Cloud?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near St. Cloud. 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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