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General Mills Research Nature Area
4.6 ★★★★★ 76 Google reviews · Running trail in Golden Valley, Minnesota · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from General Mills Research Nature Area's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Quaint, wooded greenery with paved trails for walking and biking, plus a playground.
What runners say about General Mills Research Nature Area
“Nice park near quiet neighborhood.”
Quaint little park with trails and small side trails leading into the forest. I went walking at night and felt safe. It is a surprise to see such wooded nice walking path just off the beaten path. There is a small pond and a look out spot up high on a hill. Will come back, glad I stopped.
The winding trails and lush greenery is most excellent. This is an "unmaintained" trail so it is paved but not plowed or shoveled in the winter, however that only ads to its feeling of being out in the middle of nature. Such a great park! Great scenery, people and feels.
Walking paths, playground at another park down the block. Very nice walk & not too long of a walk.
Just far enough from home to wear out our littles when we go for a walk, yet not too far that we have to carry them or take a stroller. The paved paths, think figure eight shape with spokes attaching to city streets, are a teensy bit hilly for our gang.
Trail conditions & character
“This is an "unmaintained" trail so it is paved but not plowed or shoveled in the winter, however that only ads to its feeling of being out in the middle of nature.”
Plan your run at General Mills Research Nature Area
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- Phone(763) 512-2345
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
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