How to Bike the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway South Loop

The Grand Rounds Scenic Byway is one of the most celebrated urban park systems in the United States, weaving through the heart of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and connecting over 50 parks, lakes, and natural landmarks along a 50-mile loop. Among its seven distinct segments, the South Loop stands out as a favorite among local cyclists and visiting enthusiasts alike. Spanning approximately 12 miles from Fort Snelling State Park to the Mississippi River’s eastern banks, the South Loop offers a seamless blend of urban infrastructure, riverfront tranquility, and historical context—all accessible by bike.

Biking the Grand Rounds South Loop isn’t just a recreational activity—it’s a gateway to experiencing Minneapolis’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and thoughtful urban planning. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist seeking a scenic commute or a first-time rider looking for a safe, well-marked route, the South Loop delivers a uniquely rewarding experience. Unlike many urban bike paths that feel disjointed or poorly maintained, the South Loop is meticulously designed with consistent signage, dedicated bike lanes, smooth pavement, and strategic rest points. Its integration with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board’s broader vision makes it a model for sustainable, accessible transportation infrastructure.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap for biking the Grand Rounds South Loop—from planning your route and selecting the right gear to navigating intersections and maximizing your enjoyment. We’ll also cover best practices, essential tools, real-world examples from local riders, and answers to frequently asked questions. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll have everything you need to confidently and safely complete the South Loop, whether as a short afternoon ride or a full-day adventure.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the South Loop Route

The Grand Rounds South Loop begins at Fort Snelling State Park, near the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers, and travels northeast along the riverbanks before looping back through the southern neighborhoods of Minneapolis. The official route is approximately 12 miles one-way, but many riders choose to complete a full 24-mile loop by returning via the same path or connecting with other segments of the Grand Rounds.

The South Loop follows a series of interconnected trails and roadways, including:

• Fort Snelling State Park Trails – Starting point with paved paths along the river bluffs
• Minnesota River Trail – A 5-mile stretch of paved, car-free path running parallel to the river
• Minneapolis Riverfront Trail – Follows the Mississippi River through the historic Mill District
• South 1st Street and 28th Avenue South – On-street segments with protected bike lanes
• Minnehaha Parkway – A scenic, tree-lined corridor leading into the heart of the park system

Use the official Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board map (available online) to visualize the entire route. Pay special attention to trailheads, parking areas, and connection points with other Grand Rounds segments.

2. Choose Your Starting Point

While Fort Snelling State Park is the traditional southern terminus, you can begin your ride at several accessible points:

• Fort Snelling State Park (Recommended) – Offers ample parking, restrooms, and historical exhibits. Ideal for a full-length ride.
• Minnehaha Park – A popular mid-point with a famous waterfall, picnic areas, and bike rentals nearby.
• Mill Ruins Park – Perfect for urban riders starting near downtown Minneapolis. Accessible via light rail and bike-share stations.

If you’re new to the route or short on time, consider starting at Minnehaha Park. This allows you to ride north to the Mississippi River and back in a manageable 8–10 mile round trip.

3. Prepare Your Bike

A well-maintained bicycle is essential for a smooth ride. The South Loop is mostly paved, but you’ll encounter occasional cobblestone, gravel patches near riverbanks, and transitions between trail and road.

• Recommended Bike Type – Hybrid, gravel, or city bikes with 32–40mm tires offer the best balance of comfort and efficiency. Road bikes work if the tires are at least 28mm wide.
• Check Your Brakes – The route includes several moderate descents, especially near Fort Snelling and Minnehaha Falls. Ensure your brakes are responsive.
• Tire Pressure – Inflate tires to the middle of the recommended range (typically 40–60 PSI for hybrid tires) to reduce rolling resistance and improve grip.
• Carry a Spare Tube and Mini Pump – While flat tires are rare, they can happen. A compact repair kit takes up minimal space.
• Lighting – Even if you plan to ride during daylight, front and rear lights are required by Minnesota law and useful for tunnels and shaded areas.

4. Plan Your Timing

The best time to bike the South Loop is during spring, summer, and early fall. Between April and October, the trails are fully maintained, and the weather is most favorable.

• Weekday Mornings (7–10 AM) – Fewer pedestrians and cyclists, ideal for a peaceful ride.
• Weekend Afternoons (1–4 PM) – Busier but lively, with more people enjoying the parks. Great for social riders.
• Avoid Rainy Days – Some trail sections become slippery, especially near the riverbanks. Check the forecast and consider rescheduling if precipitation is expected.
• Golden Hour – Sunset rides along the Mississippi offer stunning views. Plan to start your ride 2–3 hours before sunset to enjoy the light and return before dark.

5. Navigate Key Intersections and Transitions

The South Loop includes several critical junctions where trail meets road or where signage may be ambiguous. Here are the most important:

• Fort Snelling to Minnesota River Trail – Follow the paved path east from the park’s main entrance. Look for the green Grand Rounds signage. Do not take the road to the historic fort unless you intend to visit it.
• Minnesota River Trail to 28th Avenue South – The trail ends at a signalized crosswalk. Cross with traffic (walk your bike if preferred) and enter the protected bike lane on 28th Ave S. Follow the lane north until it connects to Minnehaha Parkway.
• Minnehaha Parkway to Riverfront Trail – At the intersection of Minnehaha Parkway and 36th Street, turn right and follow the signs toward the river. The path becomes a wide, paved corridor with views of the falls.
• Mill Ruins Park to Downtown – After passing under the Stone Arch Bridge, you’ll enter the Riverfront Trail. Stay to the right to avoid pedestrian-only sidewalks. The path is clearly marked with directional arrows.

Always look for the distinctive green Grand Rounds signage—these are your primary navigational aid. If you’re unsure, pause and consult your phone map or ask a local trail ambassador (often volunteers in green vests during peak season).

6. Use Rest Stops and Amenities

The South Loop is well-served by rest areas, water fountains, and public facilities:

• Fort Snelling State Park Visitor Center – Restrooms, water, and historical exhibits.
• Minnehaha Falls Picnic Area – Benches, shaded tables, and restrooms. A great spot to pause and enjoy the 53-foot waterfall.
• Mill Ruins Park Pavilion – Public restrooms and water fountains. Also home to the Mill City Museum, which offers bike parking and indoor exhibits.
• Como Avenue Trailhead – Located near the intersection of Como Ave and 28th Ave S, this is a popular turnaround point with benches and trash bins.

Plan to stop every 4–6 miles, especially if you’re riding in warm weather. Hydration and short breaks improve endurance and safety.

7. Complete the Loop or Return

Most riders complete the South Loop as a round-trip ride, returning the way they came. However, you can create a full Grand Rounds loop by continuing north from Mill Ruins Park onto the North Loop (via the Midtown Greenway), then looping back west through the Chain of Lakes. This adds 20+ miles and is best suited for experienced riders.

For a shorter return, consider taking the Stone Arch Bridge back toward downtown, then following the Mississippi River Trail south to rejoin the South Loop. This adds a scenic detour and avoids retracing your exact path.

Always check your route on a GPS app before finishing. Many riders accidentally miss the final turn near Fort Snelling and end up on surface streets. Use the Minneapolis Park Board’s official route map as your final reference.

Best Practices

1. Ride Predictably and Respect Shared Spaces

The Grand Rounds is a multi-use trail system shared by cyclists, joggers, walkers, and rollerbladers. Always ride on the right side of the trail, pass on the left, and announce your presence with a bell or voice. A simple “On your left!” is sufficient. Avoid sudden stops or swerving, especially near crowded areas like Minnehaha Falls or the Stone Arch Bridge.

2. Obey All Signs and Signals

Though the South Loop is largely separated from vehicle traffic, several segments require crossing streets. Always stop at stop signs and traffic lights—even if no cars are visible. Minnesota law requires cyclists to follow the same traffic rules as motor vehicles. Failure to do so can result in fines and increases the risk of collisions.

3. Stay Hydrated and Sun-Safe

Summer temperatures in Minneapolis can exceed 90°F. Carry at least 20 oz of water per hour of riding, especially on exposed stretches like the Minnesota River Trail. Wear a helmet, sunglasses, and sunscreen with SPF 30+. A lightweight, breathable jersey with UV protection is ideal.

4. Avoid Distractions

Do not use headphones while biking. The trail is filled with natural sounds and other trail users—being aware of your surroundings is critical. If you must listen to music or podcasts, use one earbud and keep the volume low.

5. Pack Light, But Smart

Carry only essentials: water, phone, ID, bike repair kit, and a small snack (energy bar, banana). Avoid bulky bags. Use a saddlebag or handlebar basket instead of a backpack to maintain balance and reduce sweat buildup.

6. Be Mindful of Wildlife and Vegetation

The South Loop passes through natural habitats. Do not feed animals, stay on designated paths, and avoid stepping on fragile riverbank vegetation. The Minnesota River Trail is home to herons, turtles, and deer—observe from a distance.

7. Ride in Groups Responsibly

If biking with friends, ride single file on narrow trails. Avoid side-by-side riding unless the path is wide and uncrowded. Always let faster riders pass safely. Group rides are encouraged, but safety must come first.

8. Know Emergency Contacts

In case of injury or mechanical failure, call 911. For non-emergency trail issues (e.g., downed branches, broken signage), contact the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board at 612-230-6400. Their website also has a real-time reporting tool for trail conditions.

Tools and Resources

1. Official Grand Rounds Map

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board publishes a free, downloadable map of the entire Grand Rounds system. It includes trail surfaces, access points, restrooms, and parking. Download it at minneapolisparks.org/grand-rounds.

2. Ride Apps

• Strava – Tracks your ride, records elevation, and lets you compare times with other riders. The Grand Rounds South Loop has a popular segment profile.
• Google Maps – Use the “Bicycling” layer to see designated bike lanes and trail connections. Enable “Traffic” to avoid busy intersections.
• AllTrails – Offers user reviews, photos, and recent trail condition updates. Search “Grand Rounds South Loop” for recent reports.

3. Bike Rentals and Repair Shops

If you don’t own a bike, several rental options are available near the South Loop:

• Minneapolis B-cycle – Dockless electric and traditional bikes available at 30+ stations, including near Minnehaha Park and Mill Ruins Park.
• Target Field Bike Station – Offers daily rentals and repairs. Located at 100 5th St N, just 1 mile from the Riverfront Trail.
• Minnehaha Bike Shop – A locally owned shop offering tune-ups, rentals, and expert advice. Located at 4315 S 28th St.

4. Weather and Trail Condition Trackers

• Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) – Provides real-time river levels and trail closures due to flooding.
• Minneapolis Park Board Trail Updates – Check their Twitter feed (@MinneapolisParks) for snow removal, construction, and maintenance alerts.
• AccuWeather – Offers hyperlocal forecasts for Minneapolis neighborhoods. Use the “Trail Conditions” feature for humidity and wind speed.

5. Educational Resources

For deeper insight into the history and ecology of the South Loop:

• Mill City Museum – Free admission with bike parking. Exhibits on Minneapolis’s milling history and river ecology.
• Fort Snelling Historic Site – Ranger-led walks and audio tours available on weekends.
• “The Grand Rounds: A History of Minneapolis Parks” by David J. Wishart – A comprehensive book available at local libraries and bookstores.

6. Community Groups

Join local cycling organizations to stay informed and connect with fellow riders:

• Minneapolis Bicycle Coalition – Advocates for bike infrastructure and hosts monthly group rides along the Grand Rounds.
• Friends of the Grand Rounds – Volunteer group that maintains trails and hosts clean-up events.
• Women Who Bike Minneapolis – A supportive community offering guided rides and safety workshops.

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah, 34, First-Time Cyclist

Sarah had never biked more than 3 miles before deciding to tackle the South Loop. She started at Minnehaha Park on a Saturday morning, rented a hybrid bike from Minnehaha Bike Shop, and followed the trail north to the river. “I was nervous about getting lost, but the green signs were everywhere,” she says. “I stopped at the falls, took photos, and had a snack at the pavilion. The whole ride took me 2.5 hours, including breaks. I didn’t feel tired at all.”

Her tip: “Bring a friend. Even if they’re not cyclists, walking alongside you makes the ride more fun and less intimidating.”

Example 2: Marcus, 48, Commuter Cyclist

Marcus bikes the South Loop every weekday to get from his home in St. Paul to his office near the Stone Arch Bridge. He uses the Minnesota River Trail and Minnehaha Parkway to avoid traffic. “It’s faster than driving during rush hour, and I arrive at work energized,” he says. “I’ve lost 25 pounds in a year.”

His tip: “Invest in fenders and a rack. Rain happens. And always carry a change of clothes in a waterproof bag.”

Example 3: The Johnson Family, 2 Adults + 2 Kids

The Johnsons biked the South Loop with their children (ages 7 and 10) using trailer bikes and child seats. They started at Fort Snelling and rode to Minnehaha Park, then turned back. “The trail is flat and wide enough for us to ride side by side,” says mom Lisa. “The kids loved spotting ducks and seeing the waterfall.”

Their tip: “Use a bell on every bike. Kids get excited and sometimes forget to warn others. Also, pack extra snacks—kids burn energy faster than you think.”

Example 4: Tourist from California, 62 Years Old

After hearing about the Grand Rounds from a travel blog, Tom rented a bike in downtown Minneapolis and rode the entire South Loop in one day. “I’ve biked in San Francisco and Portland, but this is the most beautiful urban trail I’ve ever done,” he said. “The river, the bridges, the history—it’s like a museum on wheels.”

His tip: “Start early. I finished by noon and had the rest of the day to explore the museums. The trail is so well maintained, I didn’t need to stop for repairs once.”

FAQs

Is the Grand Rounds South Loop suitable for beginners?

Yes. The South Loop is one of the most beginner-friendly urban bike routes in the country. It’s mostly flat, well-marked, and separated from high-speed traffic. Even riders with minimal experience can complete it with proper preparation.

Do I need a permit or pay a fee to bike the South Loop?

No. The Grand Rounds Scenic Byway is a public park system and open to all without charge. Parking at Fort Snelling State Park is free for bikes, and there are no trail access fees.

Can I ride an e-bike on the South Loop?

Yes. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes (with pedal-assist up to 20 mph) are permitted on all Grand Rounds trails. Class 3 e-bikes (speed-assist up to 28 mph) are allowed on roadways but not on multi-use trails. Always check local signage.

Are dogs allowed on the South Loop?

Yes, dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times. Clean up after your pet. Some areas near the river have seasonal restrictions to protect wildlife—look for posted signs.

How long does it take to bike the entire South Loop?

Most riders complete the 12-mile one-way route in 45–75 minutes, depending on fitness and stops. A full round-trip (24 miles) typically takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours, including breaks.

Is the trail safe at night?

The South Loop is not recommended for night riding. While some sections are lit near downtown, many trail segments are unlit, especially near the riverbanks. Additionally, fewer people are on the trail after dark, reducing visibility and safety.

Can I take public transit to the South Loop?

Yes. Metro Transit buses serve multiple access points, including Fort Snelling, Minnehaha Park, and Mill Ruins Park. The Green Line light rail stops near the Stone Arch Bridge and the Minneapolis Convention Center, making it easy to combine transit with biking.

What should I do if I encounter a trail closure?

Check the Minneapolis Park Board website or social media before you ride. If you encounter an unexpected closure, follow detour signs. Most closures are temporary and due to maintenance or weather. If no detour is marked, contact the Park Board or use a map app to reroute around the blocked section.

Are there bike repair stations along the route?

There are no public air pumps or repair tools along the trail. However, several bike shops are within walking distance of key access points. Carry your own repair kit for peace of mind.

Can I bike the South Loop in winter?

Yes, but only with proper equipment. The city snowplows the main trails, and many riders use studded tires or fat bikes. Temperatures can drop below 0°F, so dress in layers and avoid riding during ice storms. The trail is less crowded in winter, offering a peaceful experience for those prepared for cold conditions.

Conclusion

Biking the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway South Loop is more than a physical journey—it’s an immersive experience that connects you with the natural and cultural soul of Minneapolis. From the quiet serenity of the Minnesota River Trail to the historic grandeur of the Stone Arch Bridge, every mile tells a story. The route’s seamless design, consistent signage, and community support make it one of the most accessible and enjoyable urban cycling experiences in the nation.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—preparing your bike, choosing the right timing, respecting shared spaces, and using available tools—you’ll not only complete the South Loop safely but also deepen your appreciation for urban greenways as vital components of healthy, livable cities.

Whether you’re a local resident looking to rediscover your city or a visitor seeking authentic, active exploration, the South Loop offers something unforgettable. Lace up your shoes, inflate your tires, and hit the trail. The river, the trees, and the skyline are waiting.