No longer do you need to make a trip up north to rip through some off-road mountain bike trails, with the variety of trails that the park system has been adding in the cities. Mountain biking has a growing scene in the Twin Cities area, many people are open to trying this ever-growing sport. Now you’re going to learn about some of the places this area has to offer you to ride. Don’t forget to suit up with the right mountain bike before you head on down.
Let’s start with Minneapolis: we have Theodore Wirth Park, where there are approximately 8.1 miles of single track trails, scattered throughout. Ranging from intermediate to expert ranked trails, you will be able to find something enjoyable for everyone. These paths are monitored by the Minneapolis Off-Road Cycling Advocates and will be closed in rain or if you can see a tire track in the trail.
Next up we have Elm Creek Park Reserve located in Maple Grove which encompasses a total of 12.7 miles of sustainable trail. Broken down by ability level there is 2.2 miles of “easy” trails, 8.1 miles of “more difficult” trails and 2.4 miles of “most difficult” trails. With questions regarding the trails you can call Elm Creek Park Reserve or check out the Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists website.
Lebanon Hills is tucked into Eagan, MN and holds nearly 12 miles of single tracks that will challenge you and help you hone in your skills. First built in 2000 this park has been changing ever since and now features beginner, intermediate, expert, and extreme trails along with a skills park to focus on specific aspects of riding. You can bring a head lamp and ride here into the night until 10pm which can make a trail that you know a completely new challenge. For more information and trail maps you can visit the Lebanon Hills website.
Battle Creek Mountain Biking Trail is located just outside of Maplewood, MN and has 9.5 miles of paths which are mostly single trail. There are not many features through these trails, but there are some hilly climbs, which tend to be relatively short. The trails are hard-pack, fast, and consist of some sandy sections and some areas with rocks and roots. Mostly intermediate trails make up this complex, if you’re interested in updates then check out the MTB Project website.
With the ever-growing interest of mountain biking throughout the Twin Cities, you can be sure that our friends at the Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists will continue to maintain and add trails throughout the cities to get people stoked on mountain biking. Be sure to stock up on any parts you need, and keep your eyes peeled for events and new trails coming to a park near you.
Calvin G.
