Minnehaha Creek Greenway

The Minnehaha Creek Greenway offers families a beautiful, paved multi-use trail that winds alongside the tranquil Minnehaha Creek through Edina. It's an ideal spot for easy family bike rides, nature walks, or letting kids practice their rollerblading skills in a safe, scenic environment away from traffic. The gentle terrain and peaceful creek views make this trail accessible for even young riders with training wheels.

• ✓Smooth, paved trail perfect for beginner bikers and balance bikes
• ✓Creek-side scenery with opportunities for wildlife spotting (ducks, turtles, songbirds)
• ✓Connection to multiple parks with playgrounds along the route
• ✓Safe, car-free environment for kids learning to bike or rollerblade
• ✓Shaded sections perfect for hot summer days

1. 1.Park at one of the neighborhood access points along the trail for easy entry,there's no single main parking lot, so scout locations beforehand
2. 2.Bring bread crumbs or birdseed to feed ducks along the creek (a huge hit with younger kids)
3. 3.The trail connects to parks with playgrounds, so plan stops at Pamela Park or Arden Park to break up longer rides
4. 4.Weekday mornings are quietest,weekends can get busy with adult cyclists and runners
5. 5.Pack a picnic and find a shady spot along the creek for a mid-adventure snack break

Spring through fall on weekday mornings or early weekend mornings (before 10 AM) for fewer crowds. Late spring is especially beautiful when wildflowers bloom along the banks, and fall offers stunning foliage without the summer heat.

The trail is free to use and open year-round, though the listed office hours (8 AM-4:30 PM weekdays) likely refer to administrative offices, not trail access. Bring your own snacks and water as there are no vendors along the trail.

The trail is accessible year-round, though winter visits require appropriate gear (some families enjoy cross-country skiing or winter walks). Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures. Summer can get warm, so plan morning visits and bring extra water.

Stop by Big Bowl in Edina (about 2 miles away) for kid-friendly Asian cuisine with a children's menu, or grab burgers and shakes at The Original Pancake House on France Avenue, a local favorite with plenty of options for picky eaters.