Minneapolis has earned its reputation as one of America’s most bike-friendly cities. Its scenic riverside trails offer some of the best cycling experiences in the Midwest. The Mississippi River weaves through the heart of the city, providing cyclists with stunning views and plenty of interesting places to explore along the way.
The riverside trails offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. Here is a list of 17 riverside bike stops in Minneapolis that are worth adding to your cycling itinerary.
Mill Ruins Park
Adjacent to the Stone Arch Bridge, this park preserves the remnants of what was once the world’s largest flour milling district. The paved trails wind through historic mill foundations and the river’s edge.
It’s a fascinating blend of industrial history and natural beauty that makes for a perfect quick stop.
Father Hennepin Bluff Park
Named after the 17th-century explorer who first discovered St. Anthony Falls, this park offers some of the best views of the falls and downtown Minneapolis. Tree-lined paths provide welcome shade during summer rides, and several benches face the river for cyclists wanting to take a longer break.
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East River Flats Park
Favorite among cyclists and rowers, this park lies in a natural low area along the river just south of the University of Minnesota campus. The open green space allows for ample stretching out of sore muscles mid-ride.
The view from the ‘flats’ provides a different perspective on the river than most other stops.
Bohemian Flats Park
This riverside flat area, once home to immigrant communities in the late 19th century, now offers spacious green fields and river access. The park’s historical significance adds an interesting dimension to a quick stop.
Informational signs throughout the park tell the story of the immigrant communities that once thrived here.
West River Parkway Overlooks
The parkway has several carefully designed overlooks with benches and interpretive signs about the river’s history and ecology. These areas are well-placed for catching one’s breath while discovering something new about the Mississippi.
The overlooks are also spaced at comfortable distances for bikers seeking short, scenic breaks.
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Minnehaha Regional Park
Home to the 53-foot Minnehaha Falls, this park is a must-visit stop on any riverside cycling journey. The pavilion offers refreshments, and the surrounding park provides plenty of picnic spots.
The sound of rushing water creates a soothing atmosphere perfect for recharging during a long ride.
Lock and Dam No. 1
Also known as the Ford Dam, this engineering marvel offers a fascinating glimpse into river navigation infrastructure. Cyclists can watch boats move through the lock system while taking a break on the observation platform.
It’s a unique riverside experience that combines industrial function with unexpected beauty.
Hidden Falls Regional Park
True to its name, this park features a secluded waterfall and quiet trails that feel miles away from the city despite being right in Minneapolis. The shaded picnic areas make it perfect for a longer break with a packed lunch.
The falls are most impressive after a heavy rain, adding an element of timing to your visit.
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Wabun Picnic Area
Located on the east bank of the Mississippi, this elevated area offers spectacular views of the river valley. The picnic shelters and water fountains make it a practical stop for cyclists needing refreshment.
On clear days, you can see for miles downriver, providing a sense of the Mississippi’s grand scale.
Lake Street-Marshall Bridge
This bridge connecting Minneapolis and St. Paul offers cyclists a unique mid-river pause point with panoramic views in both directions. The dedicated bike lanes make it a safe and comfortable place to stop briefly.
The perspective of looking both upriver and downriver provides a wonderful sense of the river’s journey.
Mississippi Gorge Regional Park
This natural area showcases the river in its wild state, with limestone bluffs and dense vegetation. Various overlooks along the bike path provide perfect spots to observe wildlife and the river below.
The cooler microclimate in the gorge is especially refreshing during summer rides.
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East River Road Flats
These open areas along the University of Minnesota campus offer quick access to the river’s edge. Popular with students and local cyclists alike, these spots provide simple, quiet places to dip your feet in the river on hot days.
The atmosphere changes with the academic calendar, making it an evolving stop throughout the year.
Franklin Avenue Bridge
This historic bridge features expanded pedestrian and bike paths with several bump-outs designed as viewing platforms. The bridge’s height offers spectacular views of the river gorge in both directions.
The recent renovation prioritized the cyclist experience, making it more than a crossing point.
Nicollet Island
This historic island in the middle of the Mississippi offers charming views of 19th-century homes and river vistas. The small park on the island’s southern tip provides a peaceful break spot.
The contrast between the historic buildings and the natural river setting creates a uniquely Minneapolis experience.
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North Mississippi Regional Park
Further downriver, this expansive park offers a more natural riverside experience with prairie restorations and wetlands. The visitor center provides educational exhibits about the river ecosystem and restroom facilities.
The wider trails here allow for a more relaxed riding pace if you’re winding down your journey.
Ole Olson Park
This newer addition to the Minneapolis park system offers modern amenities and restored natural areas along the river. The rain gardens and native plantings demonstrate urban environmental stewardship in action.
The park’s design intentionally connects cyclists with the river and sustainability practices.
St. Anthony Main
The cobblestone street with restaurants and cafés makes for a perfect refreshment stop with bike racks. The historic buildings create a European atmosphere, contrasting the natural river setting just steps away.
The outdoor seating areas are particularly popular with cyclists looking to enjoy a meal with a river view.
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The River’s Continuing Journey
The Mississippi River has shaped Minneapolis from its earliest days as a flour milling center to its current status as a cycling destination. These riverside stops offer more than just resting places—they connect cyclists with the city’s unique natural, cultural, and industrial heritage.
As you pedal along these scenic paths, you’re experiencing Minneapolis the way many locals do: from the perspective of the mighty river that continues to define this vibrant Midwestern city.
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