The off-road cycling trail in Theodore Wirth Park opened in 2005 and is an officially sanctioned facility in the Minneapolis Park System.
Originally a demonstration project, the Wirth trail demonstrates that a sustainable, safe, and low-maintenance off-road cycling trail can protect natural resources, challenge off-road cyclists, and be compatible with other park uses. The trail was developed according to best sustainable practices in partnership with Minneapolis Off-Road Cycling Advocates (MOCA) and Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists (MORC). These partnerships continue maintenance and development of the trail.
The Trail
The 4.36-mile trail twists and climbs its way through a wooded, hilly section of Wirth Park east of Twin Lakes, north of Highway 55, and west of the golf course. Trail sections with intriguing names like “Dingo,” “Enchanted Forest,” “Twister,” “Snake Trail,” “White Pine Flyer,” and “Conundrum” promise thrills and challenges. Banked to keep water from collecting, the 18-inch-wide trail is designed mainly for beginner and intermediate cyclists with alternatives – marked on trail signage – for advanced cyclists.
Note to Cyclists and Pedestrians:
• Ride trails only when they are dry and open. MOCA updates trail conditions on its website.
• Riders use the trails at their own risk and pedestrians also use the trails.
Off-Road Cycling Rules & Etiquette
Access and Parking
The trail has three access points:
• From Hidden Lakes Parkway at the north end of the trail.
• From the road just south of the Par 3 Clubhouse.
• Near the Highway 55 and Theodore Wirth Parkway intersection at the southeast end of the trail.
It is anticipated that most riders will reach the area by bicycle. If needed, parking is available at Wirth Lake Beach. From the lake parking lot, trails can be accessed by riding north (there is a bike path on the west side of Wirth Parkway) for 0.5 miles to the intersection of Wirth Parkway and Olson Memorial Highway (55). The trail is on the northwest corner of this intersection.
Penalty for Building Unofficial Trails
Construction permits are required by the MPRB for any projects within the park system, including trail building. MOCA obtained a construction permit, and the trails it constructed in accordance with the permit are sustainable and meet the MPRB’s risk management considerations. Engaging in construction within the park system, i.e., building unofficial trails can result in a $1,000 fine per incident.
Volunteers Needed
In partnership with MPRB, MOCA and MORC, groups of local cyclists passionate about preserving unpaved bicycle trails in Minneapolis designed, built and funded this sustainable, environmentally sound and accessible trail network. MOCA volunteers continue to monitor and maintain it. For more information about volunteer opportunities, visit MOCA.
Historical Profile: More information about this and other parks is included in Parks, Lakes, Trails and So Much More, a richly detailed account of the histories of Minneapolis’ renown recreational system. (See Theodore Wirth Park section.)
