Biking Hastings’ 10-Mile Scenic Circuit
Hastings/Washington County • E-bike rentals available at trailhead I love to bike, but many times would like to go farther than what my endurance allows. I would also like to …
Washington County field trips
Blog posts about outdoor activity options in Washington County, Minnesota. We cover local hiking, trail running, biking, paddling, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and camping opportunities.
Hiking the Stillwater Historic Stairs Route
The Stillwater Historic Stairs Route can be so much more than just a workout. It’s a great way to slow down and enjoy this iconic town. There are a number …
Hiking the Snowshoe Trails at Afton State Park
One of the things I’ve discovered since I started to snowshoe two winters ago is this: the best hiking trails make the best snowshoe trails! This is definitely true at …
St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail: Hike It or Bike It
Stillwater/Washington County • Free parking either in Stillwater or Wisconsin The St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail—newly completed this spring for foot and bike traffic only—is a wonderful partnership between Minnesota …
Biking the Brown’s Creek State Trail
Stillwater/Washington County The Brown’s Creek State Trail is a 6-mile paved multi-use trail with trailheads at the Gateway Trail near Grant, and in downtown Stillwater. This trail is a great …
Hiking in Lake Elmo Park Reserve
Lake Elmo/Washington County • Vehicle permit needed Lake Elmo Park Reserve has more than 2,000 acres of lakes, ponds, wetlands, rolling hills, forests and prairies. There are 20 miles of …
Camping in St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park
Hastings/Washington County • Park pass needed St. Croix Bluffs Campground is one of two regional campgrounds in Washington County. It offers modern campsites with spacious sites, some of them with …
Biking in Pine Point Regional Park & Gateway State Trail
Stillwater/Washington County • Daily or annual park pass needed if you park in Pine Point The Gateway State Trail’s east end begins in Pine Point Regional Park, just north of …
Hiking in Pine Point Regional Park
Stillwater/Washington County • Daily or annual park pass needed Pine Point Regional Park has 5 miles of multi-use trails, most of which are dirt or mowed grass. This peaceful park …
Kayaking in Big Marine Park Reserve
Marine on St. Croix/Washington County • Daily or annual park pass needed Big Marine Lake is popular with boaters and anglers, but the natural shoreline on its south end and …