Near Hogback Ridge Trail
Fall colors on the Hogback Ridge Trail before the Hwy 77 Bridge.
Near Hogback Ridge Trail
On the trail along the east side of the Youth Fishing Pond.
Near Hogback Ridge Trail
The accessible parking lot at the base of the bluff.
Near Hogback Ridge Trail
Fall colors illuminate Pond "C"
Near Hogback Ridge Trail
Little Bass Pond with trees showing fall colors.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Hogback Ridge Trail

4.0 (1 Rating)
A trail offering easy hiking and exceptional bird watching.
2.8
mi
Distance
35
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsFishingLakeViewsWildflowersWildlife
Access Issues
The refuge is open year-round and there are no permits or fees required.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
2.76mi
Distance
35ft
Elevation Gain
35ft
Elevation Loss
10%
Max Grade
732ft
High Point
702ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
The Hogback Ridge Trail goes north from the Old Cedar Ave Trailhead, past the Nature Play Area, and passes under the MN Highway 77 Bridge. There are viewing platforms between the trailhead and the bridge which look out over a small lake that attracts various waterfowl. At 0.2 mi past the bridge, adjacent to Pond "C", the trail splits. Going right (northeast) here takes you to an old gravel road that runs along the southeast side of the Youth Fishing Pond and Hogback Pond. Going left (north) will put you on a short stretch of old road that connects with a singletrack trail that drops down the ridge between Pond "C" and the Youth Fishing Pond. This singletrack becomes an old road just past the Youth Pond fishing pier and continues as an old road until it connects with the old road that came along the southeast side of the ponds. You can do this loop in either direction and add on the Bass Ponds Trail for more birding opportunities.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

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Contributors
BK Hope