5 Best Hiking Trails Near St. Paul to see fall colors with your dog

Sep 10

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, autumn is one of the best times to explore the outdoors with your furry friend. If you're in the St. Paul, MN area, there are plenty of scenic trails perfect for both you and your dog to enjoy the crisp fall air and stunning colors. Here are five fantastic hiking trails within an hour of the city that offer breathtaking views and a fun adventure for your pup!

1. Afton State Park

Located just 30 minutes from St. Paul, Afton State Park is a must-visit during the fall season. The park is known for its sweeping views of the St. Croix River, and the vibrant fall colors make it even more magical. You and your dog can hike through rolling prairies and oak savannas, which are particularly stunning when the leaves turn golden. Afton offers a variety of trails with different difficulty levels, so whether you're in the mood for a casual walk or a more challenging hike, this park has you covered.

Best fall features: Oak savannas, prairies, and spectacular river views.

2. Fort Snelling State Park

If you're looking for a trail closer to the city, Fort Snelling State Park is just 15 minutes from St. Paul. Nestled at the meeting point of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers, this park offers serene riverside walks where you and your pup can soak in the fall colors. The trails wind through beautiful floodplain forests, with plenty of spots to pause and admire the changing leaves.

Best fall features: Vibrant trees along the riverbanks and peaceful, scenic views.

3. Battle Creek Regional Park

For a more urban hiking experience with a natural feel, head to Battle Creek Regional Park, just 10 minutes from downtown St. Paul. This park offers a variety of trails with wooded areas and open prairies that come alive with fall colors. There's also an off-leash dog park where your dog can run and explore freely. It's a great spot for an easy, colorful fall hike, especially if you don’t want to venture too far from the city.

Best fall features: Wooded hillsides and colorful creekside trails, plus the off-leash dog park.

4. Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Located about 20 minutes from St. Paul, Lebanon Hills Regional Park is a popular destination for outdoor lovers, and for good reason. With over 12 miles of interconnected trails, you and your dog can hike through lush forests, around beautiful lakes, and over rolling hills. In the fall, the maples and oaks that fill the park turn rich shades of red, yellow, and orange, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your hike.

Best fall features: The vibrant maples and oaks, especially around the park's scenic lakes.

5. William O’Brien State Park

For a longer but worth-it drive (about 40 minutes from St. Paul), head to William O’Brien State Park along the St. Croix River. This park offers a peaceful escape into nature, with trails that weave through hardwood forests and along the riverbanks. The mix of maple and basswood trees creates a stunning fall palette, and the river bluffs provide scenic views that are perfect for photos of your dog against a beautiful autumn backdrop.

Best fall features: River bluffs, colorful maple-basswood forests, and serene river views.

Tips for Fall Hiking with Your Dog:

Keep them hydrated: Even in cooler weather, make sure to bring water for your dog.
Be aware of temperature: Fall mornings and evenings can be chilly, so keep an eye on your dog’s comfort.
Stay on leash: Many parks require dogs to be leashed, and it’s also a good way to keep your dog safe from wildlife.
Watch for mud: With fall rain comes muddy trails—bring a towel to clean off paws after the hike!

Explore the Outdoors with Your Best Friend

Fall is a great time to get outside with your dog and enjoy the stunning scenery around St. Paul. Whether you're looking for a quick stroll or a longer adventure, these five trails offer the perfect combination of exercise, fresh air, and breathtaking fall foliage. So grab your leash, pack some treats, and hit the trails—you and your dog are in for a treat this autumn!

Marea Hudoba