Minnesota Bike Trails in Stillwater
A Rider’s Guide to Stillwater’s Best Routes
If you’re planning a ride through the St. Croix River Valley, Stillwater deserves a spot at the top of your list of Minnesota bike trails. The city connects wooded, paved, and gravel routes that wind past river bluffs, cross a historic bridge, and roll straight into a downtown built for a post-ride meal or a cold drink. Stillwater recently earned a bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community designation from the League of American Bicyclists, a recognition that reflects the city’s investment in safe, connected routes for both commuters and recreational riders.
The St. Croix River Crossing Trail Loop is one of the newer additions to the area’s network. This five-mile, multi-use route crosses both the Historic Lift Bridge and the St. Croix Crossing Bridge, linking Minnesota to Wisconsin on the far side of the river. It’s an accessible ride for all skill levels, though the climb on the Wisconsin side will get your heart rate up before you loop back.
Stillwater’s trail system covers roughly 30 miles of connected routes, and the planning behind it shows. Browns Creek State Trail runs about six miles and links directly to the Gateway State Trail, which continues another 18 miles into St. Paul for riders who want a longer ride. That connection runs in both directions, so cyclists coming from the Twin Cities can ride the Gateway State Trail out of St. Paul and end up right in downtown Stillwater.
Between these routes and the river loop, it’s easy to understand why locals are proud to have some of the best bike trails in Minnesota. Pick up a Minnesota bike trails map from one of the shops downtown before you head out. It will help you plan connections that match the distance and terrain you’re after.
For rentals, Herman’s Electric Bikes at Coffee Beans and Bikes is located at 209 S Main Street. E-bikes are rented by the hour, starting at $45 for the first hour, with a discount on weekday rides Monday through Thursday. Walk-ins are welcome, but weekend riders should call ahead to avoid disappointment. Once you drop off the bike, stay for a coffee and something from the bakery case. You deserve it.
Your Waterfront Hotel Base in Stillwater, MN
After a day on the trails, a waterfront hotel in Stillwater, MN gives you a place to rest and relax while enjoying the views you just cycled past. Water Street Inn is located at 101 Water Street South, near both the St. Croix River Crossing Trail Loop and the Browns Creek State Trail. The historic hotel dates back to the 1800s, and many of the guest rooms carry that same Victorian character.
Two on-site restaurants mean you won’t need to go far for dinner. Charlie’s Restaurant and Irish Pub serves Irish-American fare with live music most weekends, and Papa’s Rooftop offers wood-fired pizza and cocktails with views of the river and the Historic Lift Bridge. Book your stay and make Water Street Inn your home base for the ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best bike trails near Stillwater, Minnesota?
The St. Croix River Crossing Trail Loop, Browns Creek State Trail, and Gateway State Trail are the three most popular routes, together forming much of the city’s roughly 30 miles of connected trails.
Is Browns Creek State Trail good for beginners?
Yes. The trail runs about six miles on a mostly flat, paved surface, making it accessible for riders of most skill levels.
Can you bike from Stillwater to St. Paul?
Yes. Browns Creek State Trail connects to the Gateway State Trail, which continues another 18 miles into St. Paul.
Where can I find a Minnesota bike trails map for the Stillwater area?
Several shops in downtown Stillwater carry printed trail maps, and they’re worth picking up before a ride to plan connections based on distance and terrain.
Where can I rent a bike in Stillwater?
Herman’s Electric Bikes at Coffee Beans and Bikes, located at 209 S Main Street, rents e-bikes by the hour and is within walking distance of Water Street Inn.