5 Best Eden Prairie Hiking Trails to Escape the Suburbs

Eden Prairie hiking trail sounds like an oxymoron. But Eden Prairie has some of the best hiking in the Twin Cities.

After having a great time on the Richard T. Anderson Conservation Area trail, I needed to see what else Eden Prairie had to offer. It turns out, that wasn’t the only hidden gem.

There are at least five beautiful trails in the area. Most are tucked into neighborhoods, but once you hit the path, you’ll forget you’re in the suburbs.

I’m sure local residents aren’t thrilled I’m sharing their secrets, but you’ve got to check out these amazing hiking trails in Eden Prairie.

Hiking in Eden Prairie Conservation Trails Ranked

The Eden Prairie conservation areas stretch across the city. Each hike has its own ecosystem and feel, from easy to challenging.

Try one and you’ll want to do them all. Grab your water bottle and check them out.

Cardinal Creek Conservation Area Hiking Trail (Easy, ~1.5 miles)

Cardinal Creek is a wetland near the eastern edge of Eden Prairie, visible from Highway 494 heading south. It’s most recognizable for its long bog boardwalk through the cattails.

This trail works for most hikers. Stay quiet, the wildlife is active; look for birds, frogs, and the occasional beaver. Park at the Nine Mile Creek Discovery PointMAP

Edenbrook Conservation Area Hiking Trail (Easy, ~3.3 miles)

In the wetlands of Eden Prairie, this hike drops you into a rich habitat with a maze of paths in the northern part of the city. About 40% of the route is boardwalk due to the bog crossings.

The rest is grassland and woods. The Edenbrook trail has a central loop with spurs to two overlooks. Do both and double back; the views are worth it. MAP

Lower Purgatory Creek Conservation Area Hiking Trail (Moderate, ~2.4 miles)

The Lower Purgatory Creek Trail is a scenic wooded hike with creek views. The path runs behind neighborhoods in the southwest part of Eden Prairie, crossing Purgatory Creek multiple times over roughly 1.2 miles one way.

At the end, tall staircases connect to nearby neighborhoods; most hikers turn around to make it about 2.4 miles. Expect small hills and some roots.

Park at Homeward Hills Park by the baseball fields. Cross Homeward Hills, turn left on the sidewalk, then take the first paved path on your right. After crossing the creek, the trailhead is on the right. MAP

Riley Creek Conservation Area Hiking Trail (Moderate, hills; ~1.5 miles or more)

The Riley Creek trail starts in a neighborhood park with several loops and a spur into a nearby neighborhood. The largest loop is about 1.5 miles.

You’ll find vibrant green understory and a different ecosystem than the Richard T. Anderson trail nearby. Instead of steep climbs, the path uses gentle switchbacks, so elevation changes feel easier.

Look for cows in adjacent fields, shallow creek spots to cool your feet, and the occasional downed tree. The city has been clearing blowdowns, so conditions change. For a longer hike, take the spur and double back. MAP

Richard T. Anderson Conservation Area Hiking Trail (Challenging, hilly; ~2 miles)

Richard T. Anderson is one of the most challenging and rewarding hikes in Eden Prairie, with multiple loops.

The longest loop is about 2 miles. Each loop sends you up the bluffs. Do them all for sweeping city views. Imagine the first people who climbed here and saw this ridge.

You’ll find a portable toilet, picnic tables, and a natural spring at the main trailhead. This is one of two natural springs in the city. Park at either of the two lots, or in the adjoining neighborhood. MAP

Tips for Hiking in Eden Prairie

The Eden Prairie Parks and Recreation Department keeps these trails in great shape. Surfaces are generally clear and easy to follow.

You don’t need special gear beyond a camera and water, but bug spray in summer and microspikes in winter help a lot.

Except at Richard T. Anderson, many areas lack on-site maps or markers. Download a PDF map or save an offline map on your phone before you go. Some sections have weak cell service.

Restrooms aren’t guaranteed at all trailheads. Plan ahead, and check seasonal hours and closures on the city website after heavy rain or in winter.

Staying Close to Home

For years, I focused on the Minnesota State Park Hiking Club Trails, but I should have explored local more. The trails inside Eden Prairie keep surprising me.

I’m still chasing Hiking Club miles, but I’m also making time for Eden Prairie. Don’t forget to check out more great things to do in Eden Prairie.

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