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A quick descent through the Mississippi River valley and along the final and fastest portion of Minnehaha Creek.


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Map Key

0.8

Miles

1.3

KM

Point to Point

811' 247 m

High

722' 220 m

Low

17' 5 m

Up

97' 29 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (2°)

9%

Max Grade (5°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

Family Friendly An easy trail along the creek with lots to see and explore along the way.

Description

The Minnehaha Creek Trail will take hikers on a quick descent to the Mississippi River and along the final and fastest portion of Minnehaha Creek as it races to its terminus at the Mississippi River. This is a relaxed and beautiful hike. During the spring, summer, and fall you may see a variety of wildlife from great blue herons to painted turtles along the creek.

Once in the river valley, the trail follows the flow of the creek until you hit the Mississippi. The trail down to the river has gradual elevation change and is not too strenuous in either direction. Take a few minutes at the wading area to get your feet wet. This part of the creek can move pretty quickly when the water levels are high so exercise caution as you cool off your feet. Once you are done enjoying the river and the views, either head back the way you came or connect with the MSPT for a longer outing.

Contacts

Shared By:

Kristen Arendt

Trail Ratings

  4.3 from 4 votes

#11101

Overall
  4.3 from 4 votes
5 Star
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4 Star
75%
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Trail Rankings

#144

in Minnesota

#11,101

Overall
3 Views Last Month
819 Since Nov 22, 2016
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

33%
0%
67%
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Photos

Minnehaha Falls at dusk.
Dec 16, 2016 near West Sa…, MN
Natural wading pool area along Minnehaha Creek, just below the falls.
Feb 14, 2019 near West Sa…, MN
Taking in the sights at Minnehaha Falls
Feb 14, 2019 near West Sa…, MN
End of the Minnehaha Creek Trail, at bridge 5, where Minnehaha Creek flows into the Mississippi River.
Feb 11, 2019 near Mendota…, MN
Bridge 1 at the base of Minnehaha Falls makes for a prime spot for viewing the falls.
Feb 11, 2019 near West Sa…, MN
Heart carvings in the soft limestone walls
Feb 11, 2019 near Mendota…, MN

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Sep 7, 2019
Erica Lee
Brief hike with Corie in town 0.8mi
Jul 23, 2018
Laura Sockrider
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