Visit All Six Saint Paul Regional Parks
1. Como Regional Park
Start your ride at Como Lakeside Pavilion, one of the park’s signature structures with its mighty porch overlooking the lake. The Zacc Harris Trio and an array of tasty treats await. Finish your day with a slice of watermelon or a discounted beer at Dock & Paddle. Either way, you’ll love the rousing songs of the Roe Family Singers.
2. Mississippi Gorge Regional Park
Classic cyclists coming down onto Mississippi River Boulevard are not only entering a National Park (MNRRA!) they’re bicycling along the Mississippi’s only true gorge. Four miles down take a break at the Gorge Overlook Rest Stop. There’ll be fresh baked treats from Kowalski’s and lively tunes on the squeezebox. Don’t miss the gorgeous (!) view just a few steps away.
3. Hidden Falls – Crosby Farm Regional Park
Look for special signage on ride day pointing out the Hidden Falls overlook. It’s located at a bend in the boulevard, about a half mile south of the Ford bridge. Riders continue along the river bluff onto the Sam Morgan Trail to the I35E bike bridge.
4. Lilydale – Harriet Island Regional Park
The Classic crosses the river and glides down into another world ~ Lilydale Regional Park ~ stretching along the Mississippi for over three miles. The quiet road is tempting but take the trail to fully appreciate peaceful Pickerel Lake. Stylish Lilydale Park Rest Stop overlooks the lake. Besides bagels and cream cheese you’ll want to dig into the earthy songs of the Saint Paul Mudsteppers.
5. Indian Mounds Regional Park
Cruising the trail along the river leaving downtown, white cliffs can be seen rising up to Indian Mounds Park. Riders take the trail through the eastern part of the park but turn north on Johnson Parkway before reaching the sacred burial grounds of the Dakota. Those who wish can continue along the trail half a mile to see the six remaining mounds covered in prairie.
6. Phalen Regional Park
The Lake Phalen Rest Stop is a highlight for riders on both the Grand Round ride and the Lollipop Loop. Enjoy panoramic lake views and bountiful snacks while listening to the jazz stylings of pianist Larry McDonough (early) and the bodacious tuba-driven Better Mistakes. Extend your scenic tour with a three-mile loop around Lake Phalen. Soon after leaving the rest stop you’ll pass the WPA-era waterfall (pictured).
Your Six Park Tour is now complete! Though you’ll still want to finish your ride. Take the trail spur at the north end of the lake up to the Gateway State Trail. Head west young cyclists but don’t miss the trail spur leading down to Wheelock Parkway. Just a few more miles back to Lake Como, the Roe Family Singers and some watermelon ~ or perhaps a discounted beer and a sandwich at Dock & Paddle.