The Riley Creek Conservation Area

The Riley Creek Conservation Area Hiking Trail In Eden Prairie

Some of the best things are found in your own backyard. As this spring continues, I’m finding out more and more this is true. In search of some great local hiking trails, I’ve been exploring the Eden Prairie Conservation Areas. They have 5 and the Riley Creek Conservation Area hiking trail has become one of my go-to trails.

Welcome to hike 4 of 5 of my Hiking in Eden Prairie Series. Each day this week, I’ll be adding in another great hike that’s included in Eden Prairie’s Conservation Areas.

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Riley Creek Conservation Area Hiking Trail

Located in the middle of a neighborhood, the Riley Creek Conservation Area Hiking Trail is a beautiful oasis for all hikers. The trail takes you into a fern-filled forest with more green than you can ever imagine.

There are some elevation changes, but the trail switchbacks take away any of the stress. I don’t think I even broke a sweat doing it.

The trail has three different loops and a straight section that comes in from the neighborhood. Doing the largest looped section only adds up to about 1.5 miles, making it an easier hike.

Want more Eden Prairie Hikes Similar to this one! Check it out!

Riley Creek Conservation Area hiking trail entrance
down tree
tree hugging another tree
Fern Forrest at Riley Lake Conservation Area Hiking Trail
HIking the trail

Things to Keep an Eye Out For

The biggest surprise was finding a few Cows next to the trail. There is a farm adjacent to the trail. As long as they are out grazing, there is a good chance you’ll see a few. 

Cow at nearby farm at the Riley Creek Conservation Area
Barbed wire fence

The Eden Prairie Parks Department does an excellent job of making sure the trail stays clear, but sometimes there are a few surprises. If you want to avoid the tree, double back and take the next loop. 

Update: This tree has been removed from the trail. Kinda bummed personally as it was a fun obstacle.

Tree on trail
Riley Creek
Bridge over Riley Creek

Would I go again?

Definitely! I’m trying to plan out a date next week to show some other family members about the trip. My kids loved all the features of the trail and were begging to go back to just play in the creek again.

There are so many things to do in Eden Prairie; this is just one more feature of the town. Also, make sure to check out some of the other Hiking Trails in Eden Prairie. The Park is located at 9795 Canopy Trail, Eden Prairie MN 55347. Download the Official Map before you go.

Check out more great things to do in Eden Prairie!

Jack in the Pulpit Plant
Hiking Trail

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