FATMAP by Strava

Battle Creek

One of the most popular trails in the Twin Cities metro area for advanced riders.

Mountain Biking Difficult

Distance
15 km
Ascent
336 m
Descent
336 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
221 m
High Point
301 m
Gradient
Battle Creek Map

Battle Creek is the most popular mountain bike trail on the Saint Paul side of the Twin Cities. The park offers about 10 miles of mountain bike-legal singletrack trail which is, unfortunately, "the only authorized mountain bike trail in the Ramsey County park system." (Source) Well, at least you can enjoy this one fantastic trail!

Description

According to some sources, on-the-ground navigation at Battle Creek is quite confusing. This map should help you, but be sure to keep an eye out for the few trail signs, as well as one-way arrows to show you the correct direction of travel on certain trails.

Of the 10 miles of singletrack, 4.5 miles are rated as "advanced," and 5.5 miles are rated as "intermediate." Bear in mind that these are Midwestern trail ratings, however. Trails here are rated relative to other trails in the area.

The singletrack itself "consists of packed soil, sandy spots, and rocky hillsides," according to Molly O'Connor on Rootsrated.com. "With many technical drops and steep inclines, this trail will get your heart pumping in no time," she continues.

Difficulty

Difficult

Mostly stable trail tread with some variability featuring larger and more unavoidable obstacles that may include, but not be limited to: bigger stones, roots, steps, and narrow curves. Compared to lower intermediate, technical difficulty is more advanced and grades of slopes are steeper. Ideal for upper intermediate riders.

Low Exposure

1 out of 4

The path is on completely flat land and potential injury is limited to falling over.

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

between May and November

Features

  • Singletrack
  • In the forest
  • Roots
  • Rock Gardens

Guidebooks in this area