Snowshoeing is one of the easiest and most kid-friendly winter activities in Minnesota. It’s simple to learn, safe for beginners, and a great way for families to enjoy fresh air during the colder months. The Twin Cities has many trails that are flat, quiet, and perfect for younger children. Whether you are new to snowshoeing or you already love winter adventures, these trails give kids the chance to explore nature, look for animal tracks, and burn off energy in a fun and healthy way. Here are ten specific snowshoeing spots in and around the Twin Cities that families love.
#1 Elm Creek Park Reserve (Maple Grove)
One of the best places to snowshoe with kids is Elm Creek Park Reserve. This huge park has wide, smooth trails that are perfect for beginners. The Prairie Loop is especially great for families because it is open and easy to follow. Kids enjoy spotting animal footprints and walking across the quiet, snowy fields. Rentals are available in the winter, so you don’t need to buy snowshoes to try the sport. Most families spend about an hour exploring this area, which is the perfect amount of time for young children.
#2 Fort Snelling State Park (St. Paul)
Fort Snelling State Park is a calm and peaceful place that feels far from the city, even though it’s close to everything. The Pike Island Loop is an easy snowshoeing trail that lets kids walk beside the river and enjoy views of the snowy trees. This loop is flat and simple to navigate, which helps kids stay relaxed and confident. Because the trail is wide, families can spread out and take breaks whenever needed. The park is also known for deer sightings, so children might get lucky and spot wildlife during their walk.
#3 Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge (Bloomington)
This wildlife refuge has several kid-friendly trails, but the Bass Ponds area is one of the best. The path is mostly flat, and it gives families the chance to explore marshes, rivers, and open fields. Kids love looking for birds, especially in the winter when animal tracks stand out in the snow. The trail is not too long, which makes it ideal for children who are new to snowshoeing. Parents often like this location because it is peaceful and feels very natural, even though it’s close to the Mall of America.
#4 Lebanon Hills Regional Park (Eagan)
Lebanon Hills is a popular winter destination for families. The Jensen Lake Loop is a great snowshoeing trail because it circles around a frozen lake and has beautiful winter views. The trail is mostly flat but has a few gentle rolling sections that keep kids interested without being too challenging. Families can take this trail as slowly as they want, and there are several places to stop, rest, and enjoy the scenery. Many parents choose this trail because it has clear signs, making it easy for kids to help “lead” the way.
#5 Theodore Wirth Park (Minneapolis)
Theodore Wirth Park has a short and easy snowshoeing trail near the Quaking Bog area. This spot feels like a hidden winter forest right inside Minneapolis. Kids enjoy crossing small boardwalks and exploring the quiet wooded areas. The snowshoe trail is well marked, and because it is not too long, it is perfect for younger children who may get tired easily. This area is also great for quick trips after school or on weekends when families want fresh air but don’t have much time.
#6 Battle Creek Regional Park (Maplewood/St. Paul)
Battle Creek offers several simple snowshoeing trails that wind through peaceful woods. Because the area is not too steep, kids can walk comfortably without struggling on big hills. The trails are wide and easy to follow, making this a stress-free choice for parents. Families often enjoy this park because it feels quiet and uncrowded, which helps kids stay focused and calm during their winter walk. The mix of open areas and forest paths gives children a fun variety of sights as they explore.
#7 Hyland Lake Park Reserve (Bloomington)
Hyland Lake is a wonderful snowshoeing spot for kids, especially around the Richardson Nature Center. The trails here are smooth and flat, and they loop through open fields and gentle woods. Kids enjoy watching for birds and spotting winter animals along the way. This area is also great because you can choose shorter or longer trails depending on your child’s energy level. The nature center sometimes hosts winter programs, which makes visiting even more fun for families.
#8 Baker Park Reserve (Maple Plain)
Baker Park Reserve has several family-friendly snowshoeing paths, but the Lake Independence Trail is one of the easiest for children. The trail circles around sections of the lake and gives kids plenty to look at, from snowy trees to frozen water. The path is mostly open and smooth, making it easy for beginners. Families like this location because it feels peaceful and gives everyone a chance to enjoy the calm side of winter. This is also a great spot for parents who want a quiet, scenic walk.
#9 Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve (Savage)
Murphy-Hanrehan is known for its natural and untouched beauty. The snowshoeing trails here are gentle and peaceful, and they give kids the chance to explore wide snowy fields and forest areas. The beginner-friendly loops are not too long, which helps young children stay excited instead of overwhelmed. Because this park is a little farther from busy city areas, it feels like a real winter escape. Families who want a more quiet and natural experience often choose this spot.
#10 Mississippi Gateway Regional Park (Brooklyn Park)
This park is a great place for kids to try snowshoeing for the first time. The trails here are short, simple, and very manageable for beginners. Families can walk along the river, explore snowy wooded paths, and even visit a footbridge that gives a nice view of the frozen Mississippi River. The pace is slow and relaxed, making it perfect for young children. Parents like this trail because it offers pretty views without requiring a long or difficult walk.
Snowshoeing with kids is a wonderful way to enjoy winter in Minnesota. These trails are safe, easy, and full of beautiful scenery that helps children connect with nature. Whether you want a short trip close to home or a quiet winter adventure, the Twin Cities has a trail that will fit your family’s needs.
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