FATMAP by Strava

Elm Creek

One of the newest and best-constructed trails in the Twin Cities metro area.

Mountain Biking Moderate

Distance
18 km
Ascent
158 m
Descent
158 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
263 m
High Point
282 m
Gradient
Elm Creek Map

Elm Creek is the go-to mountain bike trail in the Maple Grove suburb of the Twin Cities metro area. At 12.7 miles long, this "singletrack trail is the largest trail of its kind in the northern metro," according to ThreeRiversParks.org. "Built to accommodate all skill levels of riders, the track features 2.2 miles of trail with a difficulty rating of 'easy,' 8.1 miles of trail rated 'more difficult' and 2.4 miles of trail rated 'most difficult,'" they continue. However, note that these are Midwestern trail ratings, where the trails are ranked relative to each other.

Description

Elm Creek is one of the newest mountain bike trails in the metro area, and as such, it features the latest in trail building techniques. This sustainably-built mountain bike trail features many grade reversals and rollers designed to help the water flow off the trail. These rollers provide a double function, also serving as entertaining trail features that can be pumped or popped. Alternate lines branch off of the main trail, providing more challenging rock gardens and wooden features for advanced riders.

The fun at Elm Creek doesn't stop when the snow falls—this trail system is also one of the most popular in the metro area for fat biking during the wintertime!

Difficulty

Moderate

Mostly stable trail tread with some variability, with unavoidable obstacles 8in/20cm tall or less. Other obstacles such as rock gullies and steep sections may exist. Ideal for lower 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