Near Minnehaha Falls Regional Park
Minnehaha Falls at dusk.
Near Minnehaha Falls Regional Park
Minnehaha Falls Regional Park in winter
Near Minnehaha Falls Regional Park
Natural wading pool area along Minnehaha Creek, just below the falls.
Near Minnehaha Falls Regional Park
Taking in the sights at Minnehaha Falls
Near Minnehaha Falls Regional Park
Frozen Minnehaha Falls

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Minnehaha Falls Regional Park

4.3 (17 Ratings)
Starting at the iconic Minnehaha Falls, this 2.1-mile hike will take you on quick descent to the scenic river valley.
1.9
mi
Distance
168
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsFamily FriendlyRiver/CreekViewsWaterfallWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
1.92mi
Distance
168ft
Elevation Gain
168ft
Elevation Loss
40%
Max Grade
821ft
High Point
692ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
This hike starts in the heart of Minnehaha Falls Regional Park. This area provides dining options, playgrounds, and other opportunities to supplement your hike with more time outside! The descent to the base of the falls begins at a staircase in between the falls and the statue of Hiawatha, a prominent Native American Leader in the area. Once in the river valley, follow the flow of the creek until you hit the Mississippi. The trail down to the river has gradual elevation change; it is the ascent out of the valley will get your blood flowing! 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. After following the creek upstream, you can head into a large field which will make the hike back to the top of the valley easier! The recreation opportunities in this park, especially this hike, makes the trip well worth it!

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Kristen Arendt