Cardinal Creek Trail Guide: Short, Flat, and Family-Friendly in Eden Prairie
To call this a hiking trail might be a stretch. It’s more like a nature walk. It’s flat and close to neighborhoods, so you never fully feel like you escaped the city. If you want a short reset, or you’re getting back into walking, this is a great spot.
Welcome to hike 1 of 5 in my Hiking in Eden Prairie Series. Each day this week, I’ll add another Eden Prairie Conservation Area walk.
The Trail at Cardinal Creek Conservation Area
Cardinal Creek Conservation Area is a beginner-friendly trail tucked into neighborhoods in Eden Prairie. The easiest access is from the Nine Mile Creek Discovery Point area off Gerard Drive.
There is a small parking lot at Discovery Point and an interpretive center with watershed info. The official park map is here: Official Map.
If you drive Highway 494 often, you may have seen the trail already. The long boardwalk through the cattails and wetland is hard to miss.
It feels like a tug-of-war between nature and the city.
The trail sits near Highway 494, so traffic noise is common. You’ll also hear plenty of birds and frogs. It becomes a contest for who’s louder.
Some sections run along the backs of yards. Trees screen much of it, but you’ll still spot homes. It takes a bit of the magic away.
Still, once you’re past the houses, it’s a peaceful walk with wetland views.
The bog walk is the star. The boardwalk runs a long way and flexes slightly underfoot. It’s a fun sensation.
Farther along, a small weir connects the basin to Cardinal Creek. It looks a bit like a tiny infinity pool after rains.
Wildlife
Quiet walkers see the most. We heard red-winged blackbirds and chorus frogs, and we spotted a beaver in the pond.
Once the kids clapped, the beaver vanished under the water. Lesson learned.
Beaver sightings always feel like a win, especially this close to the city.
Know Before You Go
• Trail type: Mostly flat crushed limestone, grass, and boardwalk; easy and short.
• Best seasons: Spring through fall; sections can be muddy after rain or in spring thaw.
• Parking: Use Nine Mile Creek Discovery Point lot on Gerard Drive; limited spaces, quiet on weekdays.
• Amenities: No restrooms on the trail; check Discovery Point hours for the interpretive center.
• Dogs: Allowed on-leash; pack out waste.
• Accessibility: Boardwalk is smooth; some grassy segments can be soft.
Would I Go Again?
Yes, especially for a quick nature break close to home. It’s not a challenge hike, but the boardwalk and wetland views make it worth a visit.
Check out more things to do in Eden Prairie. And download the map before you go.
