Cycling day trip from West Saint Paul to Minneapolis

This scenic route takes you from West Saint Paul up to the heart of Minneapolis, covering about 27.5 km—perfect for an afternoon ride! Starting in West Saint Paul, a quiet suburb just south of the Mississippi River, you'll quickly find yourself cruising along mostly paved and asphalt paths (over 90% of the way is on dedicated cycleways!). That means you’ll enjoy smooth riding with minimal traffic stress—it's a great choice for riders who like a safer, more relaxing ride.

There are a few gentle climbs (about 240 meters of ascent altogether), but overall you’ll end with more descent as you approach Minneapolis, which sits a bit lower. The route mostly keeps you in green spaces and neighborhood backroads, letting you see parts of the Twin Cities often missed by car.

Once in Minneapolis, you’ll arrive in one of America’s most bike-friendly cities, with tons of coffee shops, parks, and lakes waiting for you. Don’t forget to check out the Midtown Greenway or grab a bite in the North Loop before heading home!