Best Hiking Trails for Kids Around the Twin Cities

Looking for a fun way to get the kids outside? The Twin Cities is home to dozens of family-friendly hiking trails that are perfect for toddlers, elementary-aged kids, and even teens. From paved nature paths and scenic waterfalls to wildlife viewing and wooded adventures, there’s a trail for every family.

Whether you’re hoping to burn off some energy, spot wildlife, or simply enjoy a beautiful Minnesota afternoon, these hiking destinations offer easy-to-moderate trails that kids will actually enjoy.

1. Lebanon Hills Regional Park (Eagan)

Lebanon Hills is one of the largest regional parks in the metro area, offering more than 20 miles of trails winding through forests, lakes, and wetlands.

Families love the variety of trail options, allowing you to choose shorter hikes for younger children or longer adventures for older kids.

Highlights include:

Scenic lakes
Boardwalks
Wildlife viewing
Canoe and kayak rentals during summer

Best for: Elementary-aged kids and teens

2. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum (Chaska)

The Arboretum isn’t just about flowers—it’s also packed with beautiful walking trails, woodlands, and a fantastic Children’s Garden.

Kids especially enjoy exploring themed gardens while parents appreciate the well-maintained paths.

Highlights include:

Children’s Garden
Treehouse
Seasonal flowers
Nature trails
Educational exhibits

Best for: All ages

3. Afton State Park (Hastings)

If your family is ready for a little more adventure, Afton State Park offers beautiful bluff views overlooking the St. Croix River.

There are several easier trails suitable for families, while older kids may enjoy tackling longer routes.

Highlights include:

River overlooks
Prairie landscapes
Forest hiking
Picnic areas

Best for: Older children and teens

4. Hyland Lake Park Reserve (Bloomington)

Hyland Lake offers paved trails and wooded paths that make hiking accessible for families with strollers or younger children.

The park also features:

Nature center
Playgrounds
Picnic shelters
Beautiful lake views

It’s an easy destination for combining hiking with an afternoon at the playground.

5. William O’Brien State Park (Marine on St. Croix)

Located just outside the metro, William O’Brien offers peaceful hiking through forests and along the St. Croix River.

Families can choose shorter loops while enjoying opportunities to spot birds, deer, and wildflowers.

Highlights include:

Riverside trails
Easy loops
Picnic areas
Camping

6. Fort Snelling State Park (St. Paul)

Nestled between the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers, Fort Snelling State Park offers several flat, family-friendly trails.

Kids often enjoy spotting airplanes flying overhead from the nearby airport while exploring the natural surroundings.

Highlights include:

River views
Bird watching
Fishing
Historic surroundings

7. Richardson Nature Center (Bloomington)

This hidden gem offers easy hiking trails through woods and wetlands.

Inside the visitor center you’ll find:

Live animals
Educational displays
Nature programs
Interactive exhibits

It’s a great first hiking destination for younger children.

8. Dodge Nature Center (West St. Paul)

Dodge Nature Center combines hiking with hands-on learning.

Families may see:

Farm animals
Prairie trails
Woodlands
Wildlife

Seasonal events make every visit different.

9. Elm Creek Park Reserve (Maple Grove)

Elm Creek is one of the most popular regional parks for active families.

After your hike, kids can enjoy:

Swimming pond (seasonal)
Playgrounds
Picnic areas
Nature center

Several easy trails are perfect for beginning hikers.

10. Bunker Hills Regional Park (Coon Rapids)

Bunker Hills features wide, well-maintained trails that are easy for families to navigate.

Other activities include:

Playground
Golf
Water park (seasonal)
Picnic shelters

It’s easy to turn a short hike into a full day of family fun.

11. Wood Lake Nature Center (Richfield)

This beautiful urban nature center features accessible boardwalks through wetlands that are ideal for young explorers.

Families frequently spot:

Ducks
Turtles
Frogs
Songbirds

The visitor center offers educational exhibits and seasonal programming.

12. Theodore Wirth Regional Park (Minneapolis)

One of Minneapolis’ largest parks, Theodore Wirth has trails for every skill level.

Families can enjoy:

Wooded trails
Wildflowers
Bird watching
Peaceful lakes

Despite being in the city, it feels like you’re miles away from urban life.

Tips for Hiking with Kids

A little planning helps make every hike more enjoyable.

Remember to bring:

Water bottles
Healthy snacks
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Comfortable shoes
Hats
Small first-aid kit

For younger children, consider turning the hike into a scavenger hunt.

Challenge them to find:

A squirrel
Three different leaves
A butterfly
A bird
A pine cone
Wildflowers
Animal tracks

Giving kids a mission often keeps them excited for the entire hike.

Practice Leave No Trace

Teach children to help protect Minnesota’s beautiful parks by following a few simple rules:

Stay on marked trails.
Leave flowers and plants where they are.
Pack out all trash.
Respect wildlife from a distance.
Keep parks clean for future visitors.

These habits help preserve nature for generations to come.

You don’t have to travel far to enjoy incredible outdoor adventures. The Twin Cities is filled with beautiful hiking trails that make it easy for families to unplug, get active, and spend quality time together.

Whether you’re exploring waterfalls, wandering through forests, crossing scenic boardwalks, or spotting wildlife along the trail, these kid-friendly hikes offer unforgettable experiences in every season.

So grab your hiking shoes, pack a few snacks, and head outside—Minnesota’s next family adventure is waiting just around the corner.