Northern Heights Trail: Rochester, MN's New Hiking Trail

We have a brand new hiking trail that just opened this past weekend in Rochester, Minnesota! I had no idea this was in the works, but it looks super nice.

The new trail isn't too long, so good for many different people to use. It was also created adhering to the official guidelines put in place by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission.

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New Hiking Trail in Rochester, MN

The trail is called The Northern Heights Trail and, shocker, is part of Northern Valley Park. It's right in a neighborhood, so it's super accessible.

Google Maps

It appears this has been worked on since last July, when the trail was approved by the Rochester Park Board.

GoAndPractice via r/rochestermn

Northern Heights Trail, the New Hiking Trail in Rochester, MN

This trail was put together entirely by volunteers, so no taxpayer dollars were used for the project. It was just some people who had a passion to create this space, and it came together perfectly!

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They worked hard over the past year or so (and I'm sure well before that, getting a plan together and everything). Now, they have created this 1.4-mile-long loop for everyone to enjoy.

And when I say everyone, I mean everyone, including your furry, four-legged friends! Bikers too!

GoAndPractice via r/rochestermn

How to Get to Northern Heights Trail in Rochester, MN

More information about the trail was shared on the Rochester Reddit page. One of the people behind the trail shared how to get to the trailhead.

The trailhead is across the street from the gravel parking lot at the top of Northern Hills Drive where the city puts in a skating rink for the winter... opposite end of the field east from Churchill Elementary.

Google Maps

They also mentioned that bikers are asked to go counterclockwise on the trail and hikers to go clockwise.

It looks like a beautiful hiking trail and I'm excited to check it out this summer!