Mountain Biking
Mountain bikers know the excitement of speeding down a hill, the challenge of a steep climb and the thrill of weaving through scenic trails. If you’re looking for your own adventure, give mountain biking a try in Three Rivers. There are designated mountain bike trails and paved bike/hike trails of varying terrain and difficulty for mountain bikers of any skill level. Some trails are open for winter mountain biking. Off-trail biking is not permitted.
Trail Conditions
With consideration for the sensitive nature of the trails and our sustainability efforts, trails are occasionally closed due to wet or warm conditions. Conditions are updated here, and on the Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists website.
Year-round trails (weather permitting)
Elm Creek Singletrack Trail (12.7 miles): Open
Lake Rebecca Singletrack Trail (13.3 miles): Open
Monarch Singletrack Trail (Carver Park Reserve) (13.2 miles): Closed
Murphy-Hanrehan Singletrack Trail (10 miles): Closed
Winter-only trails
Baker Park Reserve (4 miles): Closed
Cleary Lake Regional Park (3.8 miles): Closed
Eagle Lake Regional Park (1.7 miles): Closed
Monarch trail enhancements
Construction is underway to add approximately four miles of trail to the existing loops of the Monarch singletrack trail system. In addition to extending the trail, additional features will be added to each loop, with significant enhancements being added to the bike park on the Paradise loop. View a map showing where trail is being added.
Work will continue through early October. The Monarch trail will remain open during the project, but some intermittent closures of trail sections will be needed while work is taking place. Pay attention to signs posted at the park and on the trail, and use caution while riding the trails.
Upon completion, Monarch will be the longest singletrack trail in the Three Rivers system, with approximately 14 miles of trail. The trail enhancements are being developed and built thanks to the generous support and partnership of the One Track Mind Foundation.
Winter Trail Use
Help us protect groomed mountain bike trails in the winter. Overinflating tires, riding in warm temperatures and wearing boots can leave tracks that damage groomed trails. Here are few ways you can help:
- Reduce your tire pressure.
- Ride when temperatures are below freezing.
- Wear snowshoes when hiking on singletrack trails.
All Programs & Events
See all mountain biking programs and events.
Electric-Assist/Pedal-Assist Bicycles
E-bikes (electric-assist or pedal-assist bicycles) are allowed on singletrack mountain bike trails if they meet the state’s definition and requirements. A motorized bicycle that does not meet this definition is not allowed on any Park District trails. Learn more about e-bike use in the parks.
In Three Rivers, having fun doesn't have to cost a thing. From free parking to free activities to free programs and events, find your adventure!
Other Things To Do
Biking
Biking in Three Rivers is a great way to get the whole family outside. Whether you’re the casual rider or a cyclist in training, you’ll appreciate more than 240 miles of off-roadway bike/hike trails that wind through woodlands and grasslands and rim the shorelines of lakes and ponds at our parks.
Camping
Fall asleep to the sound of crickets and wake up with the sunrise. Camping is the stuff memories are made of and at Three Rivers, you’ll find all the fun of camping without the long car trip. Campgrounds are located at Baker, Carver and Cleary Lake.
Downhill & Telemark Skiing
Hyland Hills Ski Area and the Winter Recreation Area at Elm Creek offer downhill ski areas for all skill levels, from training hills to Olympic-level training jumps. The downhill ski areas feature snowmaking and well-groomed hills for unbeatable winter fun.
Paddling
Recreate on the water with canoeing, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Get exercise and fresh air while you explore the shorelines and bays where motorized boats can’t go. Need a boat? Three Rivers offers canoe, kayak, rowboat, paddleboat and stand-up paddleboard rentals at several parks.
Skijoring & Dog Sledding
If you have a dog with some pent-up winter energy, bring it to Three Rivers Parks for fun exercise where we have designated trails for skijoring and dog sledding.
Snowboarding
Snowboarding is just one more way you can enjoy the wintry Minnesota outdoors. From group or private lessons to equipment rental to impeccably groomed hills for every skill level, the Hyland Hills Ski Area and the Winter Recreation Area at Elm Creek have everything you need to carve up the slopes.
