Rice Creek West Regional Trail

Rice Creek West Regional Trail is a long, easy, and paved trail located near Fridley, MN. This out-and-back hike travels through the woods near Rice Creek. There are also sections through residential and commercial areas. This trail is 10.1 miles long and gains just under 500 feet of elevation.This hike starts at Community Park in Fridley, MN. Begin hiking on the Rice Creek West Regional Trail towards University Ave. Cross the road and continue on Rice Creek West Regional Trail. The trail is well marked and often has signs. After hiking 0.5 miles through a commercial area, you will have reached Locke Park.From here on, there are many benches along the trail that provide a nice place to stop and rest. Locke Park also has picnic shelters and bathrooms. Travel through the woods and cross over Rice Creek as you walk through Locke Park. After 1 mile, you will walk through a tunnel under the highway. Walk 0.2 miles more before crossing another street. Continue to follow Rice Creek West Regional Trail.The trail now dips back into the woods and travels next to the meandering Rice Creek. This lasts for 1 mile. The trail then turns and travels adjacent to railroad tracks near a residential area. Walk alongside the tracks for 1.5 miles until you reach Long Lake Park. This park also has bathrooms and picnic shelters. Walk until you reach Long Lake Beach. Here, you will turn around and follow Rice Creek West Regional Trail back to the trailhead.Rice Creek West Regional Trail is open year-round for hiking and does not have any associated fees. Dogs are allowed on this trail. This trail is also shared with bikers. Rice Creek West Regional Trail is a nice, long trail that is easily accessible to those in the Twin Cities Metro Area.