Fort Snelling State Park

About

Located in the heart of the Twin Cities, this park offers extensive hiking, bike and ski trails that link to Minnehaha Park and the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. Canoe on Gun Club Lake, play golf, swim in Snelling Lake, or hike on Pike Island where the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers converge. Interpretive exhibits and films on display in the Thomas C. Savage Visitor Center give visitors a good background on the history and resources of the park and area. Trails also allow visitors to hike up to the historic Fort Snelling for a view of military life in the 1820s. This is a day-use only park; no camping is available.

Take time to hike or ski out to Pike Island, the location where the mighty Mississippi and the Minnesota Rivers converge. Canoe rental, as well as a popular beach, are available on Snelling Lake. Be sure to visit the Fort Snelling State Park Visitor Center and hike up to the Historic Fort Snelling strategically located on the bluff overlooking the river valley. 18 mi of hiking trails, 5 mi biking. 24 km of mostly beginner cross-country ski trails.
Located near Mpls/St Paul Airport on Minnesota River at Post Rd and MN Hwy 5. Trail runs through river bottom forest and prairie restoration, and to the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers.

Dates

Year round. Park: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Park Office hours vary with seasons.

Rates

Park permits: $35 annual, $26 second vehicle, $12 handicapped, or $7 daily.