CHAMPLIN, Minnesota — Trail conditions at Elm Creek Park Preserve are in pristine condition already by mid-April. A recent trip to the Northwest Metro was just what the doctor ordered — with the trails prime for riding!
If you’re in the West or Northwest Metro, Elm Creek offers a little something for everyone.
OK, so maybe not everyone: Those of us who like to earn our descents with long climbs could be disappointed, as Elm Creek doesn’t boast much for elevation.
But what Elm Creek lacks in climbs it makes up for in fast flow— with several sections of the trail offering twists and turns but without the tight knuckle-busting trees we’ve come to know in Wirth, for example. MORC describes the loops as “Flowing trails with small bumps and rises (designed to keep water off the trail) make sections of this trail feel like a pump track,” and I wouldn’t disagree.
What’s best about the Elm Creek loop is multiple points throughout the 12.7 mile loop offer an opportunity to duck out, thanks to very well-marked entry and exit points that will direct riders back to the trailhead.
All that said, beware the challenges of getting to that trailhead.
The main parking lot can be only accessed from the east, because access to the park is controlled from the west through impassable “official vehicle only” gates. In other words, if you end up parked at the western lot, you’re biking it or hoofing it to get to the main trailhead.
And, unfortunately, as of this writing, sites like morcmtb.org and others don’t provide the best (if at all) GPS locations when you tap your phone — especially an iPhone.
That said, these links should get you to the proper trail head:
GETTING THERE:
The area is maintained by the Three Rivers Park District and currently there is no charge for parking — but note there’s also no running water onsite, either. That said, there are plenty of convenience stores and gas stations within just a few minutes if you need that sugar rush or more water.
Interested in learning more? View the Three Rivers Park District website at:
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