Ultimate Guide to Rochester's Paved Trails: 12 Loops & 5K Routes

With temperatures finally creeping into those springlike levels, it’s the perfect time to continue thinking warm thoughts and start planning your escape to the outside. A great way to do that is to explore one of Rochester, Minnesota’s best outdoor amenities-- its incredible network of paved bike trails.

LOOK: 20+ Things to Do Within 30 Miles of Rochester, MN

In case you didn’t know, Rochester is ranked the 7th most bikeable city in the state, and it’s easy to see why. The city is home to over 85 miles of paved biking and walking trails, winding through scenic parks, along rivers, and into some of the best-hidden corners of town.

Rochester Bike Trails Map (City of Rochester) CLICK TO ENLARGE

The trail system is made up of 12 individual loops, ranging from short, family-friendly one-mile paths to more challenging 6+ mile routes, as well as eleven designated 5K routes.

👇Maps of each loop and 5k routes are included below👇

Rochester’s paved trail system also includes the Douglas State Trail, a 12.5-mile multi-use trail built on a former railroad grade. Starting in northwest Rochester, this scenic route stretches through the small town of Douglas and ends in Pine Island. With a paved path for bikers and hikers alongside a natural surface trail for horseback riders and snowmobilers.

Google Maps

Douglas State Trail as it passes by Northern Hills Golf Course in Rochester MN

Bike Rentals at Silver Lake

No bike? No problem! Silver Lake Boat and Bike Rentals offers a variety of bikes, including tandems, adult bikes, and kid-friendly options perfect for exploring Rochester’s paved trails. Helmets are included, so all you need to do is show up and ride! 🚴‍♂️

Silver Lake Bike and Boat Rentals

Tandem recumbent bikes and trikes for rent at Silver Lake Bike and Boat Rentals

But biking isn’t the only way to enjoy these trails! Rochester’s 85+ miles of paved pathways are perfect for walking, jogging, rollerblading, and more. Just be sure to keep the motorized vehicles off the trail.

These paved trails connect nearly every corner of Rochester giving you a front-row seat to beautiful green spaces, historic neighborhoods, and areas you might not see otherwise. The trails also provide access to more than 3,500 acres of parkland in 100+ city parks.

Ready to hit the trails? Below is a breakdown of each of the paved trail loops and 5K routes to check out in Rochester this season

Click here to jump to 5K Route Maps