Minnesotans are undeniably outdoorsy people. Whether we’re biking and swimming our way through the summer, or skiing, tubing, and ice fishing in the winter, we make a point to spend time in the great outdoors. Minneapolis and Saint Paul have a variety of hiking trails for Twin Cities residents to explore, but one of the more notable trails is just outside the cities, and will lead you to another world.

Welcome to Elm Creek Park Reserve In Maple Grove, Minnesota.
Yelp/Kara D.
Within 4,900 acres of park lies a swimming pond, a skiing and tubing area, a nature center, and 12.7 miles worth of hiking trails. This park is nestled within the Minneapolis suburb of Maple Grove and is a one-of-a-kind place to experience nature as if you're in rural Minnesota without having to drive more than 20-30 minutes.
Elm Creek features a variety of paved and unpaved trails.
Yelp/Dhaivyd H.
Walk along an unpaved and less visible trail to enjoy the otherworldly sunsets upon creeks and within the trees. You'll feel as if you're one with nature here.
For those who are less fond of meandering through the forest, there are paved trails for hiking, running, and biking.
Facebook/Elm Creek Park Reserve
You'll forget that you're even in a suburb that has a population of almost 70,000 people! Everything surrounding you is prairie grass, trees, and the occasional deer.

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The trail system is connected to trails in the suburbs of Dayton, Champlin, as well as others in Maple Grove.
Yelp/Kara D.
You can take any direction your heart desires and enjoy the beautiful serene backdrop to your hike. Sunsets are to die for along this trail.
On a fall day, Elm Creek Park turns into an autumnal paradise.
Facebook/Ronald Peterson
Have you ever seen such a gorgeous pathway of crunchy leaves?
Let it all go, revive your mind and soul, and drink in the world's natural beauty.
Yelp/Dhaivyd H.
Minneapolis and Saint Paul will be waiting for you when you're ready to return!

If you appreciate the beauty of nature and want to get away from Minneapolis for just a couple of hours, Elm Creek Park Reserve is the place for you. We know that this park is just one of many in the area that have outstanding hiking trails. What’s your favorite trail to hike in Minneapolis and beyond? Let us know in the comments below.

Want to go on another hiking adventure? Read This One Easy Hike In Minneapolis Will Lead You To Someplace Unforgettable.

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