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Hike the Winchell Trail

Minneapolis, Minnesota

3.6/5
based on 5 reviews

Details

Distance

5 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Cassie Janssen

This hike is a way to escape the city without actually leaving Minneapolis.

This 5 mile roundtrip trail meanders along the Mississippi River bluffs on the west bank and is separate from the paved bike trail. The trail runs from 44th St. to Franklin Ave. Along the trail you will pass through an oak savanna restoration project, hike near the edge of bluffs and pass by the soft white sand beach. Intermittently, sets up stairs lead up from the trail to the bike path. This trail is beautiful in all seasons but it may be muddy or slippery after snowmelt and storms.

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Features

Fitness
Running
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Forest
River
Scenic

Hike the Winchell Trail Reviews

It's the indian trails, we rode our bikes on it for years and years in the 60's and 70's... long before people unfortunately rediscovered it.... It's dangerous stay off.....

Rustic, part paved, part not, lots of remnants of its WPA origins--do not miss the high plateau Oak Savannah area. Several trail options (low, middle, high) get you closer to the river or further up the slope--a couple of inlets to climb if you're down low, nothing too challenging--wear something with a real sole and not flip flops and you'll be fine.

Great place to escape the cities without actually leaving. Fall color here was amazing

Nice trail for a stroll that's makes you feel outside the cities :)

Winchell was a great hike for anyone around Minneapolis/Saint Paul looking for a little adventure. The trails change between pavement and dirt, which is nice.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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