Afton State Park Hiking Club Trail: Hiking Near St. Paul

The secret is out! What was once a best-kept secret, Afton State Park’s proximity to St. Paul has become a favorite for hikers, trail runners, anglers, and campers.

Access to most of the fun amenities like camping, fishing, and swimming is by hike. You’d think it might deter a few people. Instead, it attracts outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking near St. Paul.

Afton State Park

Afton State Park sits on the eastern border of Minnesota near the Twin Cities and offers over 20 miles of hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing trails.

The park has picturesque valleys, rolling hills, and stunning views of the St. Croix River Valley. Amenities include hike-in camping, picnic areas, and a visitor center with educational exhibits about the park’s wildlife and natural history.

It’s a great spot for hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, birding, and nature photography.

Hiking Trails at Afton State Park

Afton has 20+ miles of trails through woods, prairies, and valleys.

You’ll find options from easy nature walks to steeper, more challenging climbs.

Popular routes include the Prairie Loop Trail, South River Trail, and Deer Valley Loop.

Check the park’s seasonal map at the trailhead for current closures or detours. Ranger-led hikes and interpretive programs run seasonally.

Afton State Park Hiking Club Trail

Miles: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy but hilly
Total Miles Hiked: 26 miles

Prairie Walk

The Afton State Park Hiking Club Trail starts with a restored prairie loop near the visitor center. You’ll weave through flowers, grasses, and plenty of animal tracks.

Grasses begin popping up in June, but it’s a pretty walk in spring and fall too. It’s a great warm-up for the hike.

Hike Along the St. Croix River

The most traveled section runs above the St. Croix River, starting on pavement and transitioning to stairs. Expect big river views.

Beach conditions on the St. Croix change year to year with spring flooding. Check the park’s alerts before you go for current river levels and beach access. It’s still a great spot to fish and enjoy the views.

Near the river you’ll cross a trout stream with small cascades after rain.

What goes down…

Whenever you head downhill, you know you’ll climb back up.

This trail feels gentle most of the way with some stairs and gradual grades.

At the end you’ll climb back up the ski hill area. No lift; just steady steps. Take water.

Side Notes about the Trail

The easiest way to find the Hiking Club password is to follow the blue Hiking Club signs. Park maps include arrows showing where to start and the direction of travel, so you won’t miss the password sign.

The trail also doubles as an equestrian trail in spots. Watch your step.

Trail running is popular here. You may see runners moving opposite the Hiking Club direction.

Other Fun Things to Do at Afton State Park

Camping at Afton State Park

Afton is used in many ways, and camping is a highlight. Sites are hike-in only; no drive-in car camping.

Hike-in sites are along the trail system, typically 0.75 to 2 miles from parking. They are rustic with no electricity. Water is available seasonally at spigots; plan to carry or filter water. Reserve ahead.

Group campsites can be reserved for larger groups and include picnic tables, fire rings, and access to shared water and restrooms.

Yurts and camper cabins are available by reservation. Yurts have bunks, a table and chairs, and a wood stove for heat; no plumbing. Camper cabins provide electricity and heat; restrooms and water are in shared facilities nearby. Check current details and availability on the park page before booking.

You’ll have an amazing base for hiking, biking nearby roads, and fishing, then return to a cozy yurt or cabin.

Beach

The beach sits on a wide bend of the St. Croix River. It’s a scenic place for swimming and picnics when river levels allow.

The sand shelf changes with floods and seasonal flow. Check park alerts for current swimming conditions and any closures before you go.

Fishing

MN residents can fish without a license in Minnesota state parks when standing on land or wading in water within the park boundary. It’s an easy way to try the sport. Always follow current regulations and seasons.

Cross-Country Skiing

In winter, Afton grooms miles of ski trails for a range of skill levels, with rolling hills, overlooks, and wooded sections. Snowshoeing and winter hiking are also popular. Bring your own gear; rentals and lessons are not available at the park. Check grooming reports before you go.

Are there bears in Afton State Park in Minnesota?

Black bears are uncommon here. There’s no resident population, but a bear may wander through on occasion. Store food properly and follow posted guidance.

How much does it cost to get into Afton State Park?

As of 2025, a Minnesota state park vehicle permit is typically required. Day and annual options are available; check the current fees before you go.

Other Hiking Near St. Paul

While there isn’t an official waterfall in Afton State Park, Vermillion Falls is a 15-minute drive south in Hastings, Minnesota.

You can hear the rushing water from the parking lot and walk a short paved path to the overlook.

Also visit Shadow Falls in St. Paul. Both are part of my list of waterfalls near Minneapolis. Another great state park about an hour north is Interstate State Park, with similar elevation and big river views plus fun rock scrambles.

Would I go back?

If you have a couple of hours, I highly recommend this hike at Afton State Park. For being so close to St. Paul, it’s an easy nature escape.

If you only have an hour, do the wildlife loop at the top of the Hiking Club Trail or head to the beach area for a picnic.

Pin it for later