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Minnesota Is Fit for Running
Minnesota is the place to be active, healthy, and have fun. Throughout the state, runners enjoy high quality trails, great scenery, and races that are a blast for participants and spectators. Whether you’re planning a trip focused on running, or looking for a trail near your ultimate destination, Minnesota has a wealth of options to choose from.
Many former railroad beds have been converted into trails that extend for miles through woods, prairies, cities and small towns, and along lakes. In fact, Minnesota has produced more “rails to trails” than any other state. Find a converted railroad trail and nearby activities at Trail Link.
If you love to run in an urban setting, the Twin Cities cater to you. In Minneapolis, runners enjoy the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway loop, particularly the parkways along the chain of lakes, the downtown riverfront, and the Mississippi River. St. Paul has an extensive network of state and regional trails and pathways that show off the downtown skyline, the Mississippi River, Lake Phalen, Como Park, and other sites.
Most communities in the greater Twin Cities metro area have trails, with many in scenic parks or along lakes or rivers. The Three Rivers Park District has miles of paved and gravel trails.
In southeastern Minnesota, the city of Rochester has more than 85 miles of multi-use trail. In the northeast, Duluth has many trails suitable for running, including the 4.2-mile Lakewalk that follows the Lake Superior shoreline near downtown.
If competitive running gets your endorphins pumping, there are numerous races during spring, summer, and fall. Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth and the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon are institutions. And hundreds of other events feature short and long-distance races including triathlons and biathlons, with many raising money for great causes. Check out the Explore Minnesota sports events listings for a sampling of races throughout the state.
Minnesota has paved the way for runners throughout the state, offering trails and sights that can’t be beat. So pack your running shoes and plan a trip that keeps you fit.
