Best Hiking Paths in Greater St. Cloud

These city, county and regional parks in Greater St. Cloud have easy, beautiful hiking (or strolling) paths with some of the best views in Minnesota. Don’t believe us? Go see for yourself!

Quarry Park and Nature Preserve, George Friedrich Park, Kraemer Lake & Wildwood Park, Warner Lake County Park, Bend in the River Regional Park, Rockville County Park & Nature Preserve, Sand Prairie Wildlife Management Area, Saint John's Arboretum

• Quarry Park and Nature Preserve, United States

  
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  Probably Greater St. Cloud’s most well-known park, Quarry Park has so much to offer visitors. During the warmer months, the trails lead to refreshing quarry swimming holes, fishing spots, and even rock climbing walls. But beyond all that, Quarry Park is simply a beautiful, relaxing place to take a walk. There is an entry fee for each vehicle that depends on the season.

• George Friedrich Park in St. Cloud, United States

  
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  George Friedrich Park is a unique property located in East St. Cloud, at the end of University Drive. The park was once the site of Gottfried Hilder’s granite quarry business before it was purchased in 1934 by St. Cloud State University. The 50+ acre park has since been purchased by the City of St. Cloud, and in 2015 it opened to the public. With trails that are perfect for hiking, skiing, snow-shoeing and just exploring, it is truly a unique and beautiful place to get away.

• Kraemer Lake & Wildwood Park in Saint Joseph, United States

  
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  Also located just a short drive from St. Cloud is Kraemer Lake Wildwood Park. With natural surface trails that lead to scenic overlooks, half a mile of lake frontage, and marshy areas that offer unique perspectives on native Minnesota wildlife, this 265 acre park is a great place to take a hike. Plus, half of this park is identified as a significant natural community, with some trees over 300 years old!

• Warner Lake County Park, United States

  
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  This 264 acre park surrounds Warner Lake in Clearwater, and has been in existence since 1973. Not only does Warner Lake County Park have shelters, a picnic area, a play area, a swimming beach and a fishing pier, but there are also miles of hiking paths all through the park. Cross the creek, traverse the marsh, and even scale the shoreline on these perfect hiking paths.

• Bend in the River Regional Park, United States

  
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  Just park at the old farmstead and head south – how picturesque does that sound? Bend in the River Park is a 289 acre park, including 3,300 feet of undeveloped shoreline on the Mississippi River. You will love the scenic views of the river from the high banks, which include views of islands and the adjacent 220 acre wildlife management area.

• Rockville County Park & Nature Preserve in St. Cloud, United States

  
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  Located just outside of St. Cloud in Rockville, the walking pats in Rockville County Park encompass all types of natural areas. Stroll through whispering grassy fields. Get a glimpse of the rapids up close to the Sauk River. Hike (if you dare) up to the observation deck to see if you can spot a bald eagle. With options to just go a little ways or to walk all day, you will have so much fun exploring Rockville County Park.

• Sand Prairie Wildlife Management Area in St. Cloud, United States

  
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  This 650 acre area in the glacial flood plain of the Mississippi River is designated as a Wildlife Management Area, which means it’s set aside for the conservation of wildlife and recreational activities involving wildlife – like hiking. Come enjoy the natural beauty of this area which is full of opportunities to view wildlife, study nature, and of course, go for a hike. Come ready to explore, and watch for sandhill cranes!

• Saint John's Arboretum in Saint Joseph, United States

  
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  The Arboretum at St. John’s University features six different hikes of varying lengths, including the well-known Stella Maris Chapel Trail, the short and scenic Boardwalk Loop, and even several cross-country ski trails. Twisting through the beautiful Collegeville hills, these trails are great for any season. Check out the arboretum calendar for events throughout the year as well! For a full list an map of all the hiking options at SJU, click here. Reminder: No dogs allowed.