Winchell Trail

Winchell Trail
In early March, a limestone staircase descends from a scenic overlook to Winchell Trail.
Length5 mi (8.0 km)
LocationMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States
Trailheads
  • Franklin Avenue South (north)
  • East 44th Street (south)
Use
  • Hiking only
  • Dogs must be on leash
Elevation change501 feet (153 m)
DifficultyModerate
SeasonYear round
Sights
  • Floodplain forests
  • Oak savanna
  • Prairie grasses
  • River gorge
  • Sandy beaches
  • Springs and waterfalls
  • Wildflowers
  • Wildlife
HazardsNatural surface portions may be muddy after storms or snow melt

Winchell Trail is a five-mile (8 km) round trip, pedestrian-only trail in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, that runs along the west side of the Mississippi River between Franklin Avenue South and East 44th Street. Popular with birdwatchers and naturalists, the rustic trail provides Upper Mississippi River gorge access and views. The trail is separate from the adjacent multi-use bicycle path, taking hikers past sandy beaches, an oak savanna restoration project, and the floodplain forest. The trail has multiple access points and the section from East 38th Street to East 44th Street is paved. Described as moderate and for all hiking skill levels, the out-and-back Winchell Trail has total elevation gain of 501 feet (153 m). Parts of it can be hiked in near solitude as its age and general dilapidation have made it widely forgotten.