By Stacy Brooks
Inver Grove Heights is a top-notch biking destination, thanks to its miles of trails, parks, and Bike King, a full-service bike shop. It’s also a convenient place to connect to some of the Twin Cities’ best regional bike trails and stop for a bite to eat along the way.
Mississippi River Trail Bikeway (U.S. Bicycle Route 45)
Minnesota’s segment of the Mississippi River Trail Bikeway runs about 620 miles from the river’s source in Itasca State Park to the Iowa border. Located mostly on the shoulders of paved and low-traffic roads, the route also includes segments of state and regional trails.
Inver Grove Heights’ portion of the trail passes through the heart of the city, running along Concord Boulevard, 80th Street, and South Robert Trail. Stop at Swing Bridge Park for panoramic views from the 680-foot walking pier that juts halfway across the Mississippi River. The park also has a trailhead facility with bike fix-it stations, restrooms, water, and benches.
Several locally-owned Inver Grove Heights restaurants are located on or near the Mississippi River Trail Bikeway. For river views and elevated bar fare, visit the Mississippi Pub, which has two outdoor patios overlooking the river and a glass-walled dining room. Other local favorites include Jersey’s Bar & Grill, Turitto’s Pizza, Iwa Sushi, and Dominick’s Pizza. In the mood for something healthful? Check out Oyevida Lifestyle Cafe for sandwiches and salads.
Mississippi River Greenway- Regional Bike Trails
Extending 27 miles along the Mississippi River from St. Paul to Hastings, the Mississippi River Greenway runs through Inver Grove Heights, with trailheads at Swing Bridge Park and Pine Bend Bluffs. The paved trail has scenic views of the river and is also connected to other local parks and trails.
Salem Hills Park/Harmon Park Reserve Mountain Biking Trail
Looking for a beginner-friendly mountain biking trail? Check on the 4.3 miles of trails in Harmon Park Reserve. The one-way trail system includes three loops. A Loop (Singletrack Sawmill) starts from the parking lot, and is less than a mile long, with a twisting route through the trees. B Loop (Foul Pond) features two wooden bridges and goes in and out of the woods. C Loop (Prairie Fire) also incorporates both wooded and prairie areas, with a bridge and an optional rock obstacle.
Make Inver Grove Heights your base for a weekend of biking in the Twin Cities! Inver Grove Heights hotels offer excellent value and are conveniently located to downtown St. Paul, the Mall of America, Minneapolis, and the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Enjoy amenities including complimentary breakfast, free parking, indoor pools, and more. Book your stay at these Inver Grove Heights hotels today!