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Maplewood Nature Center
4.6 ★★★★★ 305 Google reviews · Running trail in Maplewood, Minnesota · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Maplewood Nature Center'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.
Nature preserve with scenic trails, a boardwalk, and pond, plus a public restroom.
What runners say about Maplewood Nature Center
“Beautiful trail around a large pond with turtles and muskrats and birds everywhere!”
“A quiet place for watching geese, mallards, red wing blackbirds, woodpeckers, blackcapped chickadees.”
We have been several times, in all weather condition and it’s always a wonderful experience. It’s conveniently located and plenty of parking on all sides. I have noticed though that in the warmer temps a lot of teenagers hang out in on the trails and smoke-and they act like you’re in the way when you’re trying to walk…
Very relaxing. Short, easy walk, places to stop and sit if needed. Nice boardwalk on the water to view wildlife in the water. Unfortunately, dogs are allowed on this trail. Enjoy your walk.
Beautiful place. I love walking around. thar path is rond and has a bridge across the lake, and lots of birds
You don't have to leave the city to find a country getaway. A nice variety of trails and a boardwalk across the pond to get up close with nature. The low lying shaded areas will require bug spray. The trails are not that long so it is a good place to bring younger children.
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful trail around a large pond with turtles and muskrats and birds everywhere!”
“A quiet place for watching geese, mallards, red wing blackbirds, woodpeckers, blackcapped chickadees.”
“You will walk mostly on a dirt path with some paved and some boardwalk, all while meandering through woodlands surrounding a small lake and ponds.”
“It’s conveniently located and plenty of parking on all sides.”
“Trails are not paved so if you bring a stroller make sure it's sturdy.”
“You will walk mostly on a dirt path with some paved and some boardwalk, all while meandering through woodlands surrounding a small lake and ponds.”
“On the weekend the building isn't open, but there is a porta potty.”
Plan your run at Maplewood Nature Center
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- 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.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitemaplewoodmn.gov
- Phone+1 651-249-2111
Hours
| Monday | 9 am–3 pm |
| Tuesday | 9 am–3 pm |
| Wednesday | 9 am–3 pm |
| Thursday | 9 am–3 pm |
| Friday | 9 am–3 pm |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
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