Normandale Lake Loop trail offers a beautiful, flat trail for walking or biking as a family.

This trail loop circling Normandale Lake is a real urban gem. I normally choose parks and trails further into the suburbs or country but wanted to try something different for a change. This was recommended as one of the best trails in the area. My girls have been whole-heartedly in love with biking lately, so I threw the bikes in the back of the car, and away we went.

There was plenty of free parking in lots adjacent to the loop trail. In the winter, these lots are used for the nearby ski hill and jumps, but outside of ski season, the lots are rather empty. It was an easy walk from the parking lot across the street to hit the trail. The trail did split off and offer a separate trail around the lake for walkers versus bikers. This was a nice bonus as the trail became somewhat busy later in the afternoon.

We biked the trail counterclockwise, and the views began with gorgeous fall colors in a wooded forest. It was so much prettier than I had expected, especially given the proximity to the city. There were reds, yellows, and orange...I was really excited by the beauty of the fall colors. The kids had an absolute blast biking this trail, and with it very flat, and clocking in at just over 2 miles, it was an easy loop for even young kids to complete with fuss. We did stop about 2/3rd through the loop, just to take our time and enjoy a snack. We pulled our bikes over, and I read several books to the girls as they waved at passersby and overlooked the lake.

I highly recommend this trail loop for an easy paved trail to enjoy with kids. Be sure to pack some fun snacks, and definitely sunblock in the summer as half the trail has no forest cover at all overhead. After getting all their wiggles out on the trail, head over to Yum Kitchen and Bakery for a little recharge.

Minneapolis, MN

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