Summer is on the horizon, and as the school year winds to a close and the days get longer, more Minnesotans want to spend their days outdoors. Taking your workout outside is a nice way to kill two birds with one stone. You get to enjoy the beautiful Minnesota landscape, and you do right by your body. And while it might not be easy to motivate yourself to get your run in on a particularly busy summer day, we came up with five picturesque runs that will make it easier to lace up your shoes and get outdoors.
1. The Stone Arch Bridge – The Stone Arch Bridge is one of the more popular destinations in the Twin Cities for runners, walkers and cyclists. The bridge offers a unique contrast of the power of nature and man, as the rolling waters give way to the beautiful Minneapolis skyline. Lucky runners sometimes spot Bald Eagles soaring over the river in search of their next meal. For the best views, check out the bridge around sunrise or sunset.
2. Lake Calhoun – The Lake Calhoun running trail is a favorite summer running spot for both college students and parents. The 3.1 mile loop around one of the most scenic lakes in the Twin Cities is a perfect training destination for people looking to cross a 5K or 10K off their bucket list. Like most lakes during the summer, the Lake Calhoun trail is often pretty busy, so aim for an early afternoon run during the week or an early morning loop on the weekends if you’re looking for a little more ambiance.
3. Fort Snelling State Park – The nice thing about the trails at Fort Snelling State Park is that you’ll have a different experience every time you go. The Fort Snelling trails run near the Minnesota and Mississippi River, so don’t be surprised if you encounter some wildlife along the way. With nearly 20 miles of winding trails, runners can opt for a different run every time they visit. While sometimes busy during the summer, the Fort Snelling trails offer a quieter run than most metro or lakeside routes.
4. Mississippi River Road – The Mississippi River Road runs parallel to the mighty river and curves around some scenic bluffs, which may take your breath away while you’re stopping to catch your breath. The route stretches 12 miles, making it perfect for amateur and more accomplished runners alike. If you make it down to Ford Parkway, you can watch the mighty river tumble over Lock and Dam No. 1, which has been in operation since 1917.
5. MLB All-Star Game Color Run – The Major League Baseball All-Star Game is coming to Minneapolis, and with it comes the unique opportunity to run alongside some former baseball legends. The 5K run begins at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds and ends with a rainbow mushroom cloud on Randall Avenue. Participants don a white shirt and run through color stations on their quest to reach the finish line. The party begins at the finish line, where runners celebrate their achievement with even more color. For more information of to sign up for the event, check out the Minnesota Twins website.
