Minnesota Riverfront Park

This park is super convenient with access to it directly off of I-35W South. The park sits on the southern shore of the Minnesota River. On the northern shore, are more trails, a boat dock and extra parking at the Russell A. Sorenson Landing park area. The Minnesota Riverfront Park offers both paved and natural trails throughout. Bicyclists and walkers can use these paths simultaneously with kind regard to one another. There is a parking lot right at the entrance of the park. It has a decent amount of spots but, can fill up on ocassion. Minnesota's winter this year has been highly atypical and this week temperatures are set to climb into the fifties. We've barely had even a dusting of snow this year besides. We decided to take advantage of these springlike temperatures and hiked around the park and river. It was fairly busy when we were here, lots of cars in the lot as well as people coming and going on the trails. We weren't the only ones with this idea apparently. The ground was pretty wet/muddy on parts of the natural trails so, we opted to stay on the paved ones. The paved trails are very wide and smooth, no potholes/loose gravel which is always a bonus. Even though the park is right next to a busy interstate, it is quite peaceful here. You can hear the water rushing past, the wind through the trees and the calls of different birds/animals. There is plenty of signage around to help guide you in the right direction for your adventure. They have a few picnic tables and charcoal grills near the parking lot in case you wanted to enjoy a meal next to the river. This is a lovely spot to 'get away from it all' while still being close to home. The public areas always appear well-maintained with no litter/debris laying around. We like spending time here and will continue to return. Playground: There is no playground at this park. Restrooms: No traditional facilities but, there was an accessible-sized chemical toilet near the parking lot. Dog-friendliness: Not sure what the actual law/rule regarding dogs is as, we didn't have one but, I did see one dog with a family there. Picnic area: Small picnic area near the entrance with two picnic tables and charcoal grills.
Jan 24th, 2024

All good - watch for flooding.
May 13th, 2022

Will be back, cool place.
Feb 8th, 2022

Jan 13th, 2022

Pretty area. Well preserved.
Jul 15th, 2021