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Are you looking for a gently used bike? If you are and you are in the south Twin City Metro on Saturday, June 18th, you may be in luck. For the fourteenth year, Rick’s annual used bike sale benefits a kid’s youth program and you can find a deal on a used bike. This year Rick Anderson has over 500 bicycles primed and ready for that #NextBikeAdventure.
Rick Anderson working in his garage so a wide assortment of gently used bikes are ready for the sale
Rick’s used bike sale details
The public bike sale will be held June 18, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Superior Service Center, 14580 Glenda Drive, Apple Valley, MN (Just off Cedar Ave, near the Red Line’s 147th Street bus stop.)
There are models for all ages and skill levels, including some top-quality cycles from Trek,
Specialized, Cannondale, Schwinn, Raleigh, Giant, and Fuji. There will be road bikes, mountain
bikes, cross bikes, city bikes, cruisers, hybrids, BMX, vintage, classics, and even a recumbent tandem. With many bikes for sale, they will range in price from $50 to $500 dollars. Much more
information and a map of the sale are at www.ricksbikesale.com.
Used Bike Sale Benefits Youth Program
The bikes generally sell fast. Anderson recommends arriving promptly at 9 a.m. Monetary
donations to Kids ‘n Kinship and DARTS will be accepted on-site. For additional information about the Kids ‘n Kinship mentoring program, visit www.Kidsnkinship.org.
The Dakota County Kids ‘n Kinship is a private non-profit organization that matches children who have a need for an additional supportive relationship with carefully screened adult volunteers. Once a match is made, volunteers spend 1-4 hours per week with the child. Typical activities might include picnicking, attending sporting events, sharing interests, or going to the movies.
It is incredible the things you don’t know about an area you have been pedaling around by bike for many years. Have you ever wondered why an old building or a street is designed the way it is? Maybe it’s not a top priority, and you have put off finding the answer. For me, that all changed when I had the opportunity to tag along on a special ride of the Hiawatha Bicycling Club.
The ride called the Magical History Tour was led and narrated by Joe Metzler, one of the club’s many ride leaders. An architect, Joe enjoys building landscape history and took us through neighborhoods in southwest Minneapolis, St. Louis Park, and Edina.
Gather for the Magical History Tour in south Minneapolis.
A History Tour of south Minneapolis
With close to 20 riders, the history tour periodically made stops to share some of the unique facts about the buildings, streets, and structures along the way.
Joe, leading the group, heads north to the tour’s first stop.
Leaving the Lyndale Farmstead Park in south Minneapolis, MN, you will find ample street parking if you arrive by car. Our first stop was a few blocks away at a porcelain-steel prefabricated Historic White Castle. No. 8 building. From there, the history tour meandered a few blocks further north, straddling Lake Street to view a 1907 needle manufacturing site purchased by a greeting card company that renamed the building. Further along, the tour stopped at a fountain on the north end of Lake of the Isle. Originally built to honor fallen horses of World War I, it’s still a mainstay attraction to the parkway. After visiting a few homes, associated with Frank Lloyd Wright, Joe led us into St. Louis Park.
The first stop on tour was White Castle #8
On the history tours first, stop the group discovered several interesting facts about White Castle #8.
Located at 3252 Lyndale Avenue. in south Minneapolis, the Historic White Castle Bldg. No. 8 building was modeled after the Chicago Water Tower. Notice the octagonal buttresses, crenelated towers, and parapet walls in the picture above. The structure was designed to be dismantled and then reassembled when needed. However, after moving it the 3rd time to its current location, it was moved in one piece. See more on the history of this site here.
The Buzza Company building at 1006 W. Lake St, Minneapolis
Here Joe shares information on the many uses of the Buzza Building.
Located at 1006 W. Lake Street, this building was purchased and renamed after the second-largest greeting card company of the early 1920s. After the business folded around 1942, the building was then used by the War Department, followed by Honeywell, the veteran’s administration, and then by the Minnesota military district, dubbing it “Little Pentagon.” See more on the history of this site here.
Purcell-Cutts House, a prairie style masterpiece
After stopping at the Purcell-Cutts House, you will want to come back for one of the scheduled tours.
Located at 2328 Lake Place, the house is considered by many a Prairie Style masterpiece. The design of this 1913 resident was intended as a house for “modern American family life”. The home is now owned by the Minneapolis Institute of Art and is open for tours on the second weekend of each month. See more on the history of this home here.
Peavey Fountain on Kenwood Pkwy & W. Lake of the Isles Pkwy
The Peavey Fountain, a gift to Minneapolis for watering horses, is a gem to the Lake of the Isles Parkway.
Located at 2384 W. Lake of the Isles Pkwy(Grand Rounds National Byway), this was a gift to the city of Minneapolis in 1891 from Frank Peavey, a local grain broker. The fountain was to provide drinking water for horses. After World War I, the fountain was rededicated to honor horses from the 151st Field Artillery killed in action. See more on the history of this fountain here.
The Neils House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright
A picturesque setting for a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home.
The Neils House is located at 2801 Burnham Boulevard and is one of only two homes in Minneapolis designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Built-in 1950-51, this home was the only house Wright designed that used marble wall cladding or “culls” leftover from other building projects. See more on the history of this home here.
Tour riders found a charming neighborhood round-a-bout before the next stop.
The history tour moves on to St. Louis Park
Pedaling to the southwest into St. Louis Park, the group of inquiring minds used the south spur of the Cedar Lakes Trail to stop at a park. Here they viewed the beehive barbeque and a tower in the background dubbed “Peavey’s Folly.” The next stop on the ride was to Mcdonald’s #93. This restaurant located in St. Louis Park was the second to open in Minnesota in 1958.
More info on the tour
In Lilac Park, the group viewed one of the remaining Beehive Grills here.
Lilac Park (originally part of Roadside Park) at SE corner of Hwy 7 & Hwy 100, St. Louis Park
The last of five parks along “Lilac Way” (now Hwy. 100), these parks were originally built in the late 30s by WPA artesian stonemasons. The fireplace here, along with another located in Graeser Park, are the only two remaining beehive fireplaces in the nation. Find out more here.
Riding out of Lilac Park back to the Cedar Lakes Trail.
Peavey-Huglin Experimental Concrete Grain Elevator east of Lilac Park of Trail
Due to skyrocketing insurance rates from the constant threat of wooden grain terminals catching on fire, Frank Peavey had the Peavey-Haglin Experimental Concrete Grain Elevator built-in 1899. The 122-foot structure was dubbed “Peavey’s Folly” by skeptics who expected it to crack and explode. Now a National Historic Landmark it is on the grounds of the Nordic Ware company, just east of Lilac Park. Find out more here.
McDonald’s #93 at 6320 W. Lake St, St. Louis Park
In 1958, this location was Minnesota’s second and the world’s 93rd McDonald’s ever built. At the Gala Grand Openina linehat stretched more than a city block long, waiting for hours to be served. You can find more info here.
Having fun on the Hiawatha Bike Club bike tour.
The history tour now rolls into Edina
Now pedaling along Minnehaha Creek, the group discovers how Edina got its name when stopping at a mill site that once operated here. Another interesting stop was the Grange Hall. Both the building and organization were established to improve life on the rural farm and a place to socialize. This practice was helpful for the women at the time who had little opportunity to interact with others outside of the farm. After visiting a few more historic buildings in Edina, the ride now turned back to the northeast, following the old Minneapolis Streetcar (right of way) that once stretched all the way to Lake Minnetonka.
More info and stops along the tour
The stopped here at the Grange House.
Grange Hall at 4918 Eden Ave, Edina
Even before Edina incorporated as a village the Grange Hall served the area with many historic events, including the final decision to name Edina. This is one of the few remaining Grange Hall structures standing in the State of Minnesota today. You can find more info here.
Cahill School at 4924 Eden Ave, in Frank Tupa Park, Edina
One of Edina’s oldest surviving buildings, built-in 1864, the Cahill School continued to serve children of all ages until the 1950s. It is one of the few remaining one-room schoolhouses in the State of Minnesota. Find more info here.
Stop at the park where the old Edina Mill remnants can be seen
Edina Mill at West 50th St and Browndale Ave, Edina
The Edina Mill was one of the first gristmills to be built on the Minnehaha Creek between 1855 and 1876. The mill and the tiny settlement around it were originally named Waterville Mills. After being sold in 1869, the new owner gave the mill and the city its present name. Edina was a nickname the new owner had for Edinburgh, Scotland, that appeared in a poem written by Scottish poet Robert Burns. Find more info here about the mill and how Edina progressed.
The Grimes House is the oldest house standing in Edina.
Grimes House at 4200 W 44th St, Edina
Built in 1869, it is the oldest house standing in Edina. Stopping by and viewing it from the str is a rare, well-preserved example of cottage architecture from the early settlement period. The Grimes who settled here also established a 16-acre ‘Lake Calhoun Nursery, which is the present-day neighborhood of Morningside. Find more info here.
The tour circles back into Minneapolis on the old streetcar route
If you look carefully, while out in front of the Grimes house, you can see traces of the old streetcar right-of-way that provided public transportation, back and forth, from Minneapolis, through Edina, and out to Lake Minnetonka.
Streetcar Right of Way through the Linden Hills Neighborhood, Minneapolis
You can still see remnants of the old streetcar right-of-way line through this neighborhood. The Linden Hills neighborhood was at the end of the line for commuters coming from the inner city of Minneapolis. Then in 1905, the line was extended out to Lake Minnetonka, making Linden Hills a transfer stop between the two rail lines. See more info here.
A brief stop in an area once covered by cottage homes.
Chadwick Cottages at 2617 W 40th St, Minneapolis
The two cottages here were originally built by Loren Chadwick in 1902 and combined in 1972 as a single dwelling. The individual cottages were typical of the size homes built in the early 1900s as a resort area. This is the reason the neighborhood was known as “Cottage City.” See more info here.
Stopping on this bridge, where the streetcar tracks run below modern-day trolley passes by.
Interlachen Bridge at William Berry Dr. over streetcar tracks, Minneapolis
The oldest reinforced concrete bridge in Minnesota covered by a stone veneer. The bridge was built using a system patented in 1894 by a Swiss engineer. Steps on the west side lead down to a streetcar stop known as the Cottage City stop.
Pond Cabin Site/Lyndale Hotel Site at 3450 Irving Ave S, Minneapolis
Overlooking the eastern shore of Bde Maka Ska (Lake Calhoun) the Pond brothers built a cabin when they came to Minnesota to convert Native Americans from the Dakota tribe to Christianity. Then on this same site in 1877, the Lake Calhoun Pavilion (later named the Lyndale Hotel) was built with the streetcar line passing by. In the ECCO neighborhood in Minneapolis, the original streetcar alignment crossed 36th St. on an overpass. It continued along the top of the bluff, passing the Lyndale Hotel and overlooking the lake on what is now a walking path. The resort was a popular stop offering guests a dancing hall, billiards, and a variety of recreational activities centered around the lake. Find more information here.
Even with cool temps in the mid-forties, everyone was smiling as they returned to the starting point.
This brought this Magical History Tour back to the park where the ride began. Joe says, he has a couple more Magic History Tours in mind that he plans on leading, through the club next year. If you would like to go on one of his rides, check the Hiawatha Bicycle Club ride calendar periodically.
Sadly, it’s sometimes unavoidable to ride in the rain. In my experience, the rain actually waits for me to get as far from home as possible before starting. So, when you do get caught in wet conditions, how do you protect your bicycle from the damage from water? Read on for a few helpful bike maintenance tips.
The first step In Bike Maintenance Tips is to get it clean!
The first step after riding in the rain is to get your bike clean. Road grime, mud, and other muck that has accumulated on your bike will hold moisture and encourage corrosion. A bucket of warm soapy water and a sponge is the best way to clean out that crud. Try to resist the urge to point a hose at the bike because pressured water gets into bearings promoting wear.
The second tip – get it dry
Once your bike is clean, use an old towel to get it dry. Rubber parts like tires and grips don’t need a lot of attention, rather focus on all the metal parts. Really try to address the steel hardware and make sure it’s dry to the touch before you’re done.
Then, clean the rims
Unless you have disc brakes, riding in the rain takes a toll on both the rims and brake pads. All the road grime that attaches itself to the rim works like sandpaper, wearing both the rim and the brake pads when you stop. Therefore, after riding in wet weather you will want to focus on getting all that abrasive grime off the rims and pads. If the dirt is left in place, your brakes can start making noise, be less efficient, and wear out quicker.
Lube The Chain
Water and motion will do a good job of scouring all the lubricant off your chain. Additionally, the same road grime that wears rims and brake pads will wear your chain. Additionally, that wear leaves your chain particularly susceptible to rust. To lube your chain, start by propping the bike up so you can rotate the cranks backward freely. Next, Backpedal the bike, while dripping lubricant onto each chain link. Once the chain is well saturated, give a few moments for the lubricant to penetrate the chain. Finally, wrap a rag around the chain, backpedal, and remove all the excess lubricant. Done!
Lube The Cables
Like the chain, cables will lose lubricant and wear quicker in the rain. To keep your bike shifting and braking well, drip a small amount of lubricant onto the cables where they enter the housing. Once capillary action carries a few drops of lubricant into the housing, shift through your gears a few times and squeeze the brakes repeatedly to help the lubricant find its way.
Drain The Bike
A bicycle may appear to be sealed from the elements, but it is, in fact, able to take on water when you ride in the rain. The water that collects inside the frame of your bicycle can destroy bearings, rust a frame from the inside, or freeze in the winter and burst frame tubes. To drain a frame, pull the seat and seat post out of the bike, and turn the bike upside down. Leave the bike for a few hours to drain and then replace the seat and post.
Overall, when servicing your bike after you ride in the rain be aware of the corrosion and wear rain can cause. Focus on getting the bike clean and re-lubricated, ready for your next ride.
About John Brown, the author
As a lifelong cyclist and consummate tinkerer, John operates Browns Bicycle in Richfield, MN. It all started for him in grade school when the bike bug bit and that particular fever is still there. Now, and over the past thirty years, he has worked at every level in the bike industry. Starting, like most, sweeping floors and learning anything he could about bikes. He eventually graduated as a service manager and then to a store manager. Through the years, he has spent extensive time designing and sourcing bicycles and parts for some of the largest bike companies in the world. All the while focusing on helping as many people as possible enjoy the love of riding a bike. In that pursuit, he has taught classes (both scheduled and impromptu) on all things bikes. John also believes in helping every rider attain their optimal fit on the bike of their dreams. Please feel free to stop in any time and talk about bikes, fit, parts, or just share your latest ride. You can also see more of John’s tricks and tips on the Brown Bicycle Facebook Page.
When exploring Bloomington, the Mall of America (MOA) is just one of many travel treasures to visit. Along with MOA, venturing out on a bike can make it easy to see more south metro attractions. And, with designated bike routes and commuter paths along the area streets, it’s easy to spend several days seeing the sights here.
Bicycling to MOA from American Boulevard.
When visiting Bloomington, the MOA makes an excellent multi-modal gathering point to see all the treasures here. Starting at the Mall’s north parking lot and pedaling east, it is less than a mile and a half to the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Center. Along the way, you can stop by the Northwest Airlines Museum to learn more about Minnesota’s aeronautical history.
If you like watching big planes land and take off, it is fun to take the northern bike route to the viewing station at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. To the west, less than five miles, saddle up the family for a day’s adventure at the Works Museum. Along the Minnesota River Valley, mountain bikers and hikers alike will find hours of fun to the south.
Add to the fun, exploring Bloomington by bike.
On the north side, one of many bike parking racks at the Mall of America.
A revolutionary place for shopping, entertainment, and attractions, John Emerson says it best, “I like using the MOA as a meeting point when biking around the south metro. It’s nice, and I can come a little early or stay after a bike ride, get some shopping in, or grab a bite to eat. Plus, getting to and from the Mall is easy with the bike-friendly sidewalks, access to light-rail, and ample bike parking.” We agree with John, and the Mall makes the perfect multi-modal commuting hub to explore Bloomington on two wheels.
When exploring Bloomington, the sidewalk/trail running parallel to American Boulevard works well as a bike commuter route along the 494 Freeway strip from the Mall of America’s north parking lot. Once at the Mall, you will find bike racks near most of the main entrances and lockers inside for changing clothes.
If you are coming in by Metro Transit (bus or light rail), use the lower ramp on the east side. There are plenty of bike racks next to the bus station to secure your bicycle. For more information, see MOA services and map.
Northwest Airlines History Center Museum
Riding east from the Mall, a tour rider can stop at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, where the NW Airline Museum is located.
One of the many displays at the Northwest Airline Museum.
Located one mile east of the Mall of America, the Northwest Airlines History Center Museum is worth checking out. Here you will find Minnesota’s hometown airline of the past. Visiting, you will see over 4,000 aviation artifacts from 1926 to 1998 to sift through. Plus, a gallery of photos hanging in the hotel hallways to enjoy as you make your way to the museum. It is easy to spend a couple of hours looking at the various collection here!
What you may discover at this home-town airline attraction
According to the Minnesota Historical Society’s review, you will find records on air routes, aircraft accidents, hijackings, and more. Also, see information and video on Northwest’s involvement in World War II. In the airlines, correspondents section discover communications with aircraft manufacturers and aviators like Amelia Earhart. There are also newspaper accounts of the 1989 takeover of NWA Inc. and the company’s brush with bankruptcy.
To find the museum in the Crowne Plaza Aire MSP Hotel at Two Appletree Square, take the elevator in the lobby to the 3rd Floor. As you make your way to the museum, enjoy the photos along the hallway. If the weather isn’t conducive to bicycling to the museum, consider using the light rail from the Mall of America. The Hotel is across the street from the 34th Avenue Blue-line station.
When Exploring Bloomington take in the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Visitors Center are overlooking the river and wetlands below.
A short distance east of the airline museum and across from the Hilton Hotel is the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Visitors Center. Its grand stature overlooking the river valley below offers a castle-like presence. Inside it feels more significant than the average visitors center, and it is. It has everything, including information on the wildlife that calls the refuge home. In the theater and interactive exhibits, kids of all ages can learn about the wonders of the natural world. Several large murals are made out of tiny pictures of animals, and can also be found inside.
Step outdoors, right behind the center; you will find a stone observation deck with two telescopes. Here it’s easy to focus on flora and fauna across the river valley while relaxing in the center’s natural surroundings.
When exploring Bloomington, take a walk and get close to nature.
If you are up for a walk and want to get close to nature, take a hike on one of the well-managed trails in the refuge. Walk at your own pace and stop periodically to reflect on the serenity of nature. As you explore some of Minnesota’s environment, you will find sitting areas scattered along the path to pause and reflect.
Long Meadow Trail
At some point, if you walk far enough, you’ll connect to a dirt road known as the Long Meadow Trail. This multi-use trail takes you up the river valley to the old Cedar Bridge and beyond. Along the path, you will pass by fields that grow long grass; trees that now and then shelter you from the blazing sun; waterfowl floating in the wetlands; and a bridge that takes you over the Minnesota River. If you’re lucky enough, you might even pass by an artist seeking inspiration from what’s around them and putting it on canvas.
Maps and Q-sheet make it easy to find these attractions from the MOA
With free admission to get into these two attractions, commuting by bike can add to the fun and memories. First, look at the map on pages 40-41 of the 2022 Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide. Then copy the turn-by-turn Q-sheet for your next bike adventure to the NWA Museum and Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Center.
Exploring Bloomington from the MOA to the MN Valley Wildlife Center 0.0 Cross the north MOA parking lot 0.2 Right on East American Boulevard (sidewalk trail or street) 1.1 Cross 34th Ave. NW Airlines Museum/Crown Plaza Hotel (SE corner) 1.3 Entrance to the MN Valley Wildlife Center (across from the Hilton Hotel)
The Works Museum can engineer fun for the whole family
Plenty of bike parking is available at the Works Museum.
A five-mile bike ride west of the Mall of America in Bloomington brings you and your kids to the Works Museum for some mind-expanding fun.
In the interactive Experience Gallery, your family can experiment with simple machines, structures, and shapes with sensors, imaging, and optical technologies. Your kids can touch, try and build as they explore how things work.
The Workshop in the museum is a new creative space for families. This space is perfect for the youngsters in your home. Especially for those who like to sew, build things, or create art — the ideal place for a bonding exercise with your child. The art department classes here will help you and your child produce a stop-motion animation video together. Another level allows you to create your own LED sign, and there are many more classes to select.
The Works Museum is located at 9740 Grand Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55420.
Maps and Q-sheet make it easy to find the Works Museum from the MOA
Getting to the Works Museum by bicycle can add to the fun and memories when riding a bike there. First, look at the Bloomington bike map in the Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide. Then copy the turn-by-turn Q-sheet for your next bike adventure to this museum.
Please note – the following route offers a combination of roads with parallel bike/walk paths and quiet neighborhood streets.
From the MOA north side entrance to the Works Museum!
0.0 Cross the north MOA parking lot 0.2 Right on East American Boulevard (sidewalk trail or street) 0.9 Left on 12th Avenue 1.2 Right on 82nd Street 1.4 West onto trail across Smith Park 1.6 Left (south) Park Street 2.1 Right on 86th Street 2.5 Left on 3rd Avenue 3.0 Right 90th Street (Bloomington Aquatic Center) 3.2 Left on Nicollet 3.6 Right on 93rd Street 3.7 Left on Blaisdell Avenue 3.9 Right on 95th Street 4.2 Left on Grand Avenue 4.5 Cross 97 ½ Street into the Works Museum
Watch the planes at the MSP Aircraft Viewing Station.
The MSP Observation Area for those wishing to watch the big planes land and take off.
Another fun opportunity to ride your bike from the Mall of America includes a visit to the Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport Viewing Station.
From the MOA to the MSP Aircraft Viewing Station!
0.0 Cross the north MOA parking lot 0.2 Right on East American Boulevard (sidewalk trail or street) 0.9 Right on 12th Avenue 1.6 Right on Diagonal Boulevard 1.9 Left on Bloomington Avenue 2.4 Right on 86th Street 2.6 Left on Old Cedar Avenue 2.9 Right 66th Street across Cedar Avenue 3.0 Left (south) Longfellow Avenue 3.5 Left Cargo Road 4.0 MSP Aircraft Viewing Station
Check here for more fun activities, attractions, and hotels to bike to when staying or visiting Bloomington, MN.
Named for the turbulent Mississippi River waters at the confluence of Coon Creek, the city of Coon Rapids is a fun place to explore on a bicycle. One of the nine communities in the Twin Cities Gateway, it’s a perfect destination for a bike vacation using the Coon Rapids 10-mile bike loop. Here you will find many connections to hundreds of miles of trails. The Coon Creek Trail and the Mississippi River Trail are two greenway systems here that allow you to pedal safely throughout the area. So, if you enjoy biking along rivers and creeks, we have some ideas for you, starting with the Coon Rapids 10-mile loop.
The 10-mile bike loop is fun for all levels of riders.
The Coon Rapids 10-mile bike loop
Leaving from the outer parking lot of the Muddy Cow Restaurant or a nearby hotel, the route travels in a clockwise direction. Pulling out onto Springbrook Drive, this tour safely crosses Coon Rapids Boulevard. Once across, we suggest using the paved trail that runs parallel to the street due to heavy traffic. After crossing 85th Avenue, about two miles into the loop, consider stopping at the Springbrook Nature Center.
Many roads here offer trails that parallel for added comfort and fun.
Now pedaling along the south side of 85th Avenue, at East River Road, cross the street at the stoplight and use the sidewalk on the west side, up to 85th Lane. Here enjoy the quiet neighborhood streets that connect you to the Mississippi River Trail (MRT). At 86th Avenue, continue straight ahead on the MRT between two residences, and the real fun begins. Then, as the trail drops into the forested vegetation along the bank of the Mississippi River, it’s a whole new experience.
The visitors center here makes a great rest stop.
Following the trail along the river to the Coon Rapids Dam, you will pass several trail T’s in the park, offering more loop options. One loop in the park circles Cenaiko Lake where you will find many people fishing for trout.
The Coon Rapids Dam and Visitors Center
At the visitor’s center at the Coon Rapids Dam, you will find more information on the area and its history. The dam is another popular fishing location and a crossing point for cyclists riding the Three Rivers Trails throughout the Twin Cities Metro.
Riding across the Coon Rapids dam always offers a refreshing mist of cool air.
Turning north to Coon Creek
Riding up Egret Boulevard, you can ride in the bike lane or use the parallel pedestrian path.
Now at the Dam, the 10-mile Loop leaves the MRT and heads north out of the park on Egret Boulevard. You can ride the designated bike lane or use the pedestrian path paralleling the street on a bike-friendly road. Continuing north after crossing Coon Rapids Boulevard, at Robinson Drive, you will find the Coon Creek Trailhead. On the trail and after crossing the creek, the 10-mile loop takes a right at the trail T. If you want to add a few miles to your ride, here is another option. To your left, the trail will take you up through the Erlandson Nature Center and, further along, connects to Bunker Hills Regional Park.
The smells, sounds, and views of nature as you pedal
Now pedaling south alongside Coon Creek, enjoy the smells, sounds, and views of nature. This stretch of the trail is a tranquil wilderness setting as you pedal along the stream through the forested canopy. After crossing over a creek bridge one more time, pass under the railroad tracks for another option. Stop for a round of bumper boats, go-karts, or miniature golf at Lilli Putt before heading east and completing the 10-mile Loop.
Enjoy the smells, sounds, and views of nature along the trail.
The trail runs parallel along Coon Rapids Extension and Boulevard for the last few miles of the route. Back at the parking lot, or your hotel, check out nearby eating establishments and plan another bike adventure in the Twin Cities Gateway Area.
With spring here, we wanted to share another bike/birding hotspot we have enjoyed over the years. Check out several bike trails in the north suburbs of the Twin Cities Gateway this spring and summer. While ground-truthing the maps in the latest MN Bike/Hike Guide, we noticed many birding haunts in the community of Shoreview, MN. And a fun bike-friendly destination that you may want to add to your True North list of places to explore.
An area once inhabited by Dakota and Ojibwe tribes, today the Shoreview community has many parks along its lakes with bike trails. These parks provide both residents and visitors a place to enjoy bird watching. Areas you can spot an impressive list of songbirds, hawks, and waterfowl.
Looking for some new birding spots to explore? The Twin Cities Gateway has you covered, starting with a local apple orchard. From there, we have identified several additional birding hotspots worth checking out.
A Birding Hotspot – Victoria Valley Orchard
A birding hotspot to see hawks is at the Victoria Valley Orchard in Shoreview.
As warmer weather will soon be upon us, many bird nesting sites can be found in the Victoria Valley Orchard’s apple trees. This is a good place to spot many seasonal birds and hawks. Like many groves around the country, orchards are rich in nesting habitat as the birds forage nearby. Here are a few of the birds that have been observed here: the Baltimore Oriole, Blue-Winged Warbler, Chimney Swift, Osprey, Red-Shouldered Hawk, several species of sparrows, and the Scarlet Tanager.
Location: The Victoria Valley Orchard is located at 4304 North Victoria Street, in Shoreview, MN. You are welcome to wander the orchard throughout the year to spot the different birds that live or pass through here.
Commercially for apples, they are only open from early September through mid-November if you would like to buy some of the 19 varieties they grow there. For more information, please visit their website at http://www.victoriavalleyorchard.com/.
A Birding Hotspot – Snail Lake
A birding hotspot can be found along most of the paved bike trails that meander through the parks in Shoreview.
Another birding hotspot on our tour in Shoreview is the trail along Highway 96. This trail borders the north side of Snail Lake. One of two areas to observe the birding activity is at the grassy area just off the trail. With a few potholes and a line of trees partially blocking the view of the lake, you may spot several varieties of warblers. Plus, if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of the Red-Shouldered Hawks. A variety of other marsh birds that use this area can also be seen here.
Location: The trail location is on Highway 96 and across from the Shoreview Public Library. There is a public park at the south end of the lake for another viewing location.
Birding Hotspot – Sucker and Vadnais Lakes
Now heading further east along Highway 96, our next two birding hotspots takes us first to Sucker Lake. Then, across County Road F, the trail takes you into Vadnais Lake’s park area. Both these lakes and the park areas are a part of the Vadnais-Snail Lakes Regional Park and are reservoirs for the St. Paul Regional Water Authority. These lakes are fairly deep, and the wetlands are composed of extensive tamarack and shrub swamps with large marshy areas. Here, the forest area is mainly mature pine plantations with some oak woods for nesting Pine Warblers and Red-Shouldered Hawks. A variety of marsh birds use the shoreline here. Along with the fall migratory waterfowl activity of both lakes, this area is also good for migratory warblers and Red-Breasted Nuthatches.
Location: Just south of Highway 96, take the Rice St. exit from I-694 and go north. The north access and parking are east of Rice St. on Sucker Lake Road. The south entrance is east from Rice St. on County Road F, then north on Sucker Lake Road.
Another birding hotspot is in Grass Lake, where paved bike paths pass through some of the open meadows.
Birding Hotspot – Grass Lake
Another birding hotspot in Shoreview is Grass Lake, which is also a part of the Vadnais-Snail Lakes Regional Park system. The main vegetation here is the deepwater cattail marsh with floating mats, on both the east and west shorelines of the lake, patches of oak can be found. There is a mixture of swamp shrubs and grasslands that are prevalent on the north side of the park. Here at Grass Lake is where Marsh Wrens, Osprey, and Red-Shouldered Hawks commonly nest. Common Loons are often seen in the spring and summer, and many sparrow species stopover here during their return migration.
Location: Grass Lake is reached by turf and paved trails from the parking area off of Gramsie Road. The parking lot can be reached by taking the Victoria St. exit from I-694 and going north to Gramsie Rd., then east to the MacKubin Rd. Intersection. The entrance is on your right.
For more information on these birding hotspots and others, contact Ramsey County Parks and Recreation Department at (651) 748-2500 or www.co.ramsey.mn.us/parks for more information.
A 12.5-mile Bike Loop to Shoreview’s Birding Hotspots
For those interested in riding their bicycle to the above parks described, we have identified an easy path to take to have optimal bird-watching capabilities. Please download both the Shoreview Bike Map and the 12.5-mile Turn-by-Turn Routeto begin your bird-watching journey by bike to see some of Shoreview’s birding hotspots.
Don’t let poor weather conditions stop you from biking. Cycling is one of the healthiest forms of exercise, and when appropriately planned, it can be a great activity year-round! With spring around the corner, here are some tips for staying safe. Especially when Mother Nature throws a wrench in your plans on that next bike adventure.
Inclement weather and the rain
Lighten up
Stay visible by using both headlights and taillight and wearing clothes motorists can see.
Visibility is the key, along with staying dry. It is harder for motorists and pedestrians to see you when it’s raining out. You can wear a reflective and fluorescent vest to stand out and attach reflectors to both your bicycle and helmet (which you should always wear!). Flashing lights on the front of your bike and your saddle are also very eye-catching in the rain.
Driving your bike on brick, metal, or wood surfaces becomes very slippery when wet. Try to avoid traveling over these surfaces when raining. If you must ride on these smooth exteriors, do so without turning your handlebars to prevent skidding and slow down.
Dress for the temperature
In inclement weather, when cycling, wear a light wicking layer under your rain gear and have a dry layer tucked away if you become wet.
It is tempting to bundle up with multiple layers when you’re cycling in the rain with the hopes of preventing the water from soaking through your clothing to you. Unfortunately, what will probably happen, all your layers will become wet from sweat, and you’ll be stuck wearing multiple layers of wet clothing. When it’s raining out, dress according to the temperature outside, not the volume of rain. If you don’t have any waterproof clothing, a very thin poncho or large trash bag with holes for arms and head to slip through can do wonders.
Inclement weather and the snow
Bikes with low tire pressure offer more stability on slippery roads. Adding studs to the tires of the bike adds more control.
Slow down—it’ll take twice as long to stop in the snow than in clear conditions. When approaching stop signs or intersections, give yourself plenty of room to prevent and avoid skidding.
Use fenders—when you put fenders on your bicycle, you not only stop snow from splashing all over yourself and your bike but also keep your cycling neighbors day. A win-win!
Use an old mountain bike—fat tire bicycles are great, especially when it snows or is icy. If you have an old mountain bike gathering dust in your garage, it’s often an excellent and cost-effective way to get outside when you don’t want to use your regular bike. You can also buy winter bike tires with studs if you’re so inclined.
Wet weather and the heat
In hot weather, stay hydrated by taking a few sips of water every couple of miles.
Get acclimated, mainly if you are used to going 15-mile, and the temperature suddenly jumps up into the 90s. Add higher humidity to the equation, and it’s not safe to expect to take the same route in the same timeframe. It can take weeks to get used to cycling at high temperatures, so try taking it easy for a while to get used to the heat.
Stay hydrated—a 150-pound cyclist will need to drink at least one 16-ounce bottle of water per hour. Plus a glass of water about 45 minutes before leaving. If you’re heavier or riding a challenging route, you could need up to four bottles per hour.
Stay loose—you’ll want to wear loose clothing and keep you cool when you’re sweating. Avoid dark colors, but more importantly, avoid something heavy and form-fitting.
This article was created by Personal Injury Help (www.personalinjury-law.com), an organization dedicated to providing the public with information about personal injury and safety information. Nothing in this article should be construed as legal advice, and it is intended for informational use only. Review your local cycling ordinances to ensure you ride safely and legally!
As tourism opportunities open up again, I wanted to revisit Hutchinson, MN, from their map on pages 46-47 in the MN Bike/Hike Guide. A bike-friendly community with a hometown feel and small-town charm this community is worth checking out. A short drive west of the Twin Cities, it’s one of those areas where it’s easy to lose track of time as you enjoy all the fresh air. Arriving in town, enjoy pedaling around rather than driving your car when visiting. Enjoy several biking and hiking options around lakes and parks in the area for your recreational pleasure. You will have no trouble creating some new memories while riding your bike in Hutch.
Riding the Luce Line Trail through Hutchinson on the Jaycee’s Water Carnival Ride.
Aside from riding the mountain bike trails north of town or touring the countryside, you will find many more outdoor adventures here than you can cover in one day. Besides, you can immerse yourself in the local arts. Spend some time learning about the town’s history. Or, if you are looking for a unique place to eat or a gift to take home, there are plenty of opportunities waiting for your visit here.
Minnesota’s hometown feel is in bike-friendly Hutchinson
Located a little over an hour from the Twin Cities, the community here is also known as ‘Minnesota’s Hometown.’ It’s a great place to escape the road-rage-inducing atmosphere of the big city. Here you can ride the Luce Line State Trail to clear your mind and let the calm country scenery work its magic.
When it comes time to take a break from pedaling, there is no shortage of attractions to keep your adventure moving forward. Hutch has its share of one-of-a-kind eateries, and if you’re looking for some more action outside, you can try your hand at some paintball.
Nothing is better than McCormick’s Family Restaurant in Hutchinson to start your day and plan your ride. Voted the number one place for Eggs Benedict in Minnesota, their pancakes and waffles are good too.
Riding opportunities in and around Hutchinson
It’s easy to get out to Stahls Lake Park from Hutchinson.
Like many small towns in Minnesota, pedaling around isn’t difficult. Here in Hutchinson, there is one big trail system, that takes you beyond the town limits. In fact, you can ride the trail all the way to the Twin Cities. And, if you’re up for the challenges, you will find a few mountain biking opportunities.
The Luce Line State Trail
The Luce Line State Trail stretches 63 miles (from Plymouth to Cosmos) and is a popular attraction for bikers, hikers, snowmobilers, and equestrian enthusiasts. The paved trail includes about 21 miles from the west Carver County line, through Hutchinson, to the west McLeod County line. To learn more about the Luce Line, go to www.luceline.com.
Mountain Biking
Tartan Park is located in Hutchinson and is a perfect skill park for beginners to advanced mountain bikers.
Those wishing for some off-road adventures, you are in luck. Thanks to the Hutchinson Area Mountain Bike Association, there are two tracks within reach: Tartan Terrain Park and Stahls Lake Park. Tartan Park is located within the town limits and is a skills park that caters to beginners and advanced. If you want to venture outside the town limits to Stahl’s Lake Park, there’s a nice single-track that caters to all experience levels. Two double-track loops range from .5 miles to 1 mile long. One single-track loop is over 2 miles.
Road Biking Opportunities
Like many of Minnesota’s smaller communities, navigating the area on your bike couldn’t be easier. The roads here allow you to see the beautiful scenery, perfect for your next Instagram post. You can also use the city streets and trails to explore the area’s parks, shops, and more.
Come, enjoy the bike-friendly fun in Minnesota’s ‘hometown feel’ of fun.
For more information on playing or staying in a community with Minnesota’s hometown feel. Check out our HaveFunBiking, At-a-Glance Hutchinson article for your next bike adventure. For places to stay and campgrounds, see Explore Hutchinson.
What started as a way to get more people active, the “30 Days of Biking” campaign has grown in popularity and shows added heart-healthy values. For many, biking in April leaves much to be desired unless there are above normal spring conditions. But it doesn’t have to be a significant ordeal. With 30 Days of Biking, you sign up with your own rules on how far and where you want to ride each day. It might be as little as a spin around the block, a few laps around the underground parking garage, or spinning at the gym, all depending on the weather. Then as May approaches, you will not only have bragging rights for riding 30 days in April. You will feel a lot better and be at your peak, ready for the summer bike season.
The only rule, dress to meet your own body’s comfort level no matter if it’s in April or any other month of the year.
Cycling can improve your health keeping you on top of your game.
Did you know that just 20 minutes of cycling in a day can cut your risk of dying from a heart-related disease?
You will also feel better and may help improve your muscle for walking, general balance, and climbing stairs according to a recent study conducted by Purdue University, in Indiana. The study concluded that regular cycling can cut your risk of heart disease by a whopping 50 percent. Let’s see now, besides bragging rights, if I turn my bike crank each day in April I will feel better – where do I sign up?
Signing up and pledging to ride 30 Days in April biking, it’s free!
The 30-day campaign is a pledge to ride your bike every day in April, any distance, any destination, and share your adventures online at #30dayikisofbng. So tell your friends, sign up and ride together and make sure your bike is ready to roll.
Join 30 Days of Biking through April, wearing this tee-shirt and feeling good about yourself.
30 Days of Biking is a springtime tradition founded in 2010 by two avid cyclists in Minneapolis. Last year thousands of bicyclists from St. Paul to San Diego, to Düsseldorf, Germany, join this “community of joyful cyclists.” Will you join them?
It’s easy, just pledge to ride your bike every day in April, no matter, what the weather or if it is 30-feet or thirty miles each day and trainer bike miles count too!
Join 30 Days of Biking, April 1 through 30, and be a winner with better health and more friends.
Sometimes you have to bike in the rain as spring arrives, make it fun!
Depending on the weather, you sign up and set your own rules as to how far you ride. It might be as little as a spin around the block when the weather is wet.
Staying dry is the most important and difficult part of riding. The best way to keep dry is to wear waterproof clothing. While most synthetic fabrics still insulate when wet, being wet diminishes their ability to keep you warm.
Quick and easy bicycle maintenance tips for 30 Days of Biking
Like any other mechanical device, routine bicycle maintenance and cleaning will keep your bike in optimal condition when riding 30 Days in April. Additionally, routine bicycle maintenance will make your bike safe to ride whenever you need it. Where do you start? What do you use? Well, here are a few tips to put you on the right track!
After finishing your daily 30 Days challenge here are a few more tips to prepare your bike for the next day.
Get ready, make a pledge to 30 Days of Biking today!
It’s easy and has no monetary costs to you. Then you share your adventures online with #30daysofbiking#nextbikeadventure and have fun while supporting a good cause, your health!
Are you looking for a fun spring outing with endless bird-bike sighting opportunities for the family or a getaway for yourself? Consider planning a trip to the Willmar Lakes Area. Head west out of the Twin Cities, and before you know it, you will be greeted by small-town charm and a sprawling countryside full of birding opportunities. It may seem like just another rural prairie community to the naked eye, but head out on your bike with the binoculars, and the area offers many birding haunts. Along this central migrating flyway, you can spot many species from the Minnesota Prairie Bird List that nest in the area.
As the trees begin to bud and marshes come alive along the trails and roads in Kandiyohi County, birders and cyclists will find a special place to visit.
A perfect spring bike-bird location in western Minnesota
The Willmar Lakes Area is the ideal bike getaway to visit any time of the year.
Species to check off your list when bike-bird opportunities arise in the Willmar Area
Besides the Red Crossbill sighted around the MinnWest Technology Campus in Willmar, many parks here along the trail are also worth checking out. Some of the great birding haunts in the area include; Sibley State Park, Mason Lake State Park, the Prairiewood Environmental Learning Center, and a couple of Big Kandiyohi Lake County Parks, easily accessible from the Glacial Lake State Trail. When visiting here are some of the other birds you may see to check off your list: the Short-eared Owl; Townsend’s Solitaire; Long-eared Owl; Black-throated Green Warbler; Connecticut Warbler; Snowy Egret; Common Gallinule; Blue Grosbeak; Eastern Screech-Owl; White-winged Crossbill and a Long-tailed Duck.
Getting around on your bike in Willmar is more than encouraging. Awarded the Bike Friendly Bronze status by the League of American Cyclists, the community has redesigned its streets and inner-city trails to make it easy to pedal around and explore the area’s attractions and parks.
Getting around Willmar with your bike and binoculars
While biking, this is also an excellent area for bird enthusiasts. Sibley State Park is one of the most popular areas, so bring your binoculars and camera. Around the park, you will have a chance to see many of the 206 different species of birds that nest or migrate through the area. And with the Glacial Trail, it’s easy to get out to the park, by bike, from your hotel room in the Willmar Lakes Area.
About the Glacial Lakes State Trail
Built on a former Burlington Northern railroad line, the trail is generally level and wheelchair accessible. The path is paved for 22 miles between Willmar, Spicer, New London, Hawick, and the Kandiyohi/Stearns County line. This multi-use bike corridor offers many opportunities to look at wildflowers and wildlife along the way—a perfect route to get out to Sibley State Park and Mount Tom.
Bring the binoculars along for some bird sittings along the trail!
Sibley State Park and Mount Tom
Once you get to the state park, hike up Mount Tom. It’s worth the walk and will give you a birds-eye view of the area. At the summit, on a clear day, enjoy an eyeshot of forest, farmland, prairie knolls, and lakes in a patchwork setting. Along with prime birding activities in the park, they offer several interpretive programs throughout the year.
You will find nearly two miles of paved trails that link Lakeview Campground and the Interpretive Center in the park. Another favorite haunt with a slight elevation change is the Pond View Trail loop, which offers more birding opportunities.
Other parks and trails
Enjoy the miles of scenic paved trails in the prairie lands of the Willmar Lakes Area.
There are also plenty of bike-friendly Kandiyohi County roads, paved and gravel, to help you navigate the area to reach other marshy areas popular with several bird species here.
More about the bike-friendly Willmar Lakes Area
When you are not riding, the area also offers plenty of indoor attractions when you want to relax. Along with several museums covering different parts of Minnesota’s history, after your ride, enjoy a refreshing beverage or snack as you take a break from the outdoor activities in this scenic prairie lakes area.
