Near Bass Ponds Trail
The accessible parking lot at the base of the bluff.
Near Bass Ponds Trail
Little Bass Pond with trees showing fall colors.
Near Bass Ponds Trail
On the Bass Ponds Trail in the fall.
Near Bass Ponds Trail
A freshwater spring feeds Ike's Creek.
Near Bass Ponds Trail
Big Bass Pond in the fall.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Bass Ponds Trail

4.0 (1 Rating)
Access to the premier birding hot spot on the Minnesota Valley NWR.
0.6
mi
Distance
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
ADA AccessibleBirdingFall ColorsFishingLakeWildflowersWildlife
Access Issues
The Bass Ponds Trailhead is at the end of E 86th St. Accessible parking at the bottom of the hill is available upon request. This area is open all year but may be closed due to flooding in the Spring. There are no fees or permits required.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
0.59mi
Distance
0ft
Elevation Gain
0ft
Elevation Loss
5%
Max Grade
717ft
High Point
699ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
From the parking lot on E 86th Ave, descend the steep paved road to the accessible parking lot at the base of the bluff. From this lower parking lot, follow flat loop trails that circle two ponds, a marsh, and a spring-feed stream (Ike's Creek). The Bass Pond Trail can also be reached from the Old Cedar Ave Trailhead via the Hogback Ridge Trail.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

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Contributors
BK Hope