St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail
Explore the only major waterfall on the Mississippi River, a historic industrial site, and the iconic Stone Arch Bridge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light on falls
St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail
Best Time
Golden hour light on falls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the only major waterfall on the Mississippi River, a historic industrial site, and the iconic Stone Arch Bridge.
"Great walking, running, biking trail with tons of history and amazing views of the falls."
🚶♀️ Walk the Full Loop
Explore the entire heritage trail loop for a comprehensive experience of the falls and historical sites. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture Golden Hour
Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting on the falls and the Stone Arch Bridge. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
St. Anthony Falls
Mississippi River
Witness the power of the only major waterfall on the Mississippi River, a site rich in history and natural beauty.
Stone Arch Bridge
Over Mississippi River
Stroll across this iconic 19th-century bridge for panoramic views of the falls and the Minneapolis skyline.
MN Historical Society Vignettes
Along the Heritage Trail
Engage with informative signs detailing the area's industrial and Native American history, adding depth to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History & Nature
Best Times for Views & Fewer Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Full Loop
Explore the entire heritage trail loop for a comprehensive experience of the falls and historical sites. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture Golden Hour
Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting on the falls and the Stone Arch Bridge. :camerawithflash:
📚 Read the History Signs
Don't skip the MN Historical Society vignettes; they offer fascinating insights into the area's past. :books:
🌉 Bridge Views are Stellar
The Stone Arch Bridge provides incredible vantage points of the falls and the river. :bridgeatnight:
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Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Full Loop
Explore the entire heritage trail loop for a comprehensive experience of the falls and historical sites. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture Golden Hour
Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting on the falls and the Stone Arch Bridge. :camerawithflash:
📚 Read the History Signs
Don't skip the MN Historical Society vignettes; they offer fascinating insights into the area's past. :books:
🌉 Bridge Views are Stellar
The Stone Arch Bridge provides incredible vantage points of the falls and the river. :bridgeatnight:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail for its beautiful views of the falls and the iconic Stone Arch Bridge. The historical information provided by the MN Historical Society vignettes is a significant draw, adding depth to the experience. It's a highly recommended spot for walks, runs, and photography, offering a blend of natural beauty and rich history.
"Great walking, running, biking trail. Tons of MN Historical Society vignettes to add history on the trail"
melanie rexroad
"Great views of the falls from the bridge. Amazing how they built this area to hold back the water in multiple areas/stages"
Dan Bell
"One of my favorite places in Minneapolis! There used to be six natural islands near the falls and a natural waterfall... and Native Americans."
Brian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail is easily accessible in downtown Minneapolis. You can reach it by car, with several parking ramps nearby, or via public transit. Many visitors also enjoy walking or biking to the trail, especially from areas like Whittier.
Yes, there are multiple parking ramps and lots available near the trail and the Stone Arch Bridge. Consider the ramps closest to the Mill City Museum or the historic warehouse district for convenient access.
Absolutely! Minneapolis has a great network of bike paths, and many connect to the area around St. Anthony Falls. It's a popular route for cyclists looking to enjoy the riverfront.
Yes, the trail is well-served by Minneapolis's public transportation system. Numerous bus routes stop in the downtown area, making it easy to reach the falls and bridge without a car.
Many visitors recommend exploring on foot or by bike to truly appreciate the riverfront and the historical sites. The heritage trail loop is designed for walking and offers a comprehensive experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail and the Stone Arch Bridge is completely free. You can explore the falls and the surrounding historical sites at your own pace without any admission fees.
The trail and bridge are generally accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures or maintenance schedules, especially during winter months.
Walking across the Stone Arch Bridge is free of charge. It's a public thoroughfare offering stunning views and a great way to connect with the history of the area.
While there isn't a formal ticketed tour for the heritage trail itself, the MN Historical Society provides excellent informational signs. You can also find local tour operators offering guided historical walks of the Minneapolis riverfront.
Yes, you can visit St. Anthony Falls in the winter, though conditions can be icy. The frozen falls can offer a unique, albeit different, visual spectacle. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll see the impressive St. Anthony Falls, the historic Stone Arch Bridge, remnants of the milling industry, and numerous MN Historical Society vignettes detailing the area's rich past.
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the trail and bridge, depending on how much time they dedicate to reading the historical signs and enjoying the views.
Yes, the paved trails are excellent for running and biking. The heritage trail loop and the paths along the riverfront offer scenic routes for active pursuits.
Restroom facilities are available in nearby parks and attractions, such as the Mill City Museum. It's advisable to plan accordingly, as direct restrooms on the trail itself might be limited.
The trail features MN Historical Society vignettes that cover the area's significance to Native American tribes, the rise of the flour milling industry, and the development of hydroelectric power.
📸 📸 Photography
The Stone Arch Bridge offers fantastic perspectives of the falls and the Minneapolis skyline. The overlooks near the falls themselves also provide great photo opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset are ideal for photography, offering soft, warm light that enhances the beauty of the falls and the surrounding architecture.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and near national parks or historical sites. It's best to check with local authorities or the National Park Service for specific regulations regarding drone operation.
The viewpoints from the Stone Arch Bridge are highly recommended. Additionally, exploring the lower riverfront paths can offer unique angles of the falls and the historic mill buildings.
For capturing the falls, consider a tripod for long exposures to create a silky water effect. For the skyline, a wide-angle lens can be useful. Adjust settings based on the time of day and lighting conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during daylight hours for the best visibility and to ensure children can safely enjoy the views from the Stone Arch Bridge. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities directly on the trail can be limited. Nearby attractions like the Mill City Museum can also offer further educational fun for the whole family.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Runners
You can easily extend your run or walk by exploring the connected riverfront paths. The Stone Arch Bridge provides a scenic detour, offering stunning views and a chance to catch your breath while admiring the cityscape. It's a perfect route for both a leisurely stroll and a more vigorous training session.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles from the Stone Arch Bridge and the riverfront paths. Long exposure shots can beautifully capture the movement of the water, while wider shots can encompass the grandeur of the falls and the city. Don't forget to look for details in the historic mill buildings and the bridge itself.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Power of St. Anthony Falls
The falls themselves have undergone significant engineering to manage water flow and power generation. The current appearance is a result of these efforts, including the construction of dams and locks. Visitors can learn about this fascinating interplay between nature and human ingenuity through the informational vignettes scattered along the heritage trail.
Experiencing the falls is a powerful reminder of the forces that have shaped this region. Whether you're admiring the cascading water or contemplating the history of industry and settlement, St. Anthony Falls offers a compelling glimpse into the past and present of Minneapolis.
Exploring the Heritage Trail
What sets this trail apart are the numerous MN Historical Society vignettes. These informative signs are strategically placed to highlight key historical points, from the original natural state of the falls and the presence of Native American tribes to the boom of the flour milling industry and the development of hydroelectric power. They transform a simple walk into a captivating history lesson.
Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a beautiful place to spend an afternoon, the St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail delivers. The combination of natural beauty, impressive engineering, and rich historical context makes it a must-visit destination in Minneapolis.
The Iconic Stone Arch Bridge
Today, the Stone Arch Bridge is a pedestrian and bicycle bridge, serving as a vital link for recreation and tourism. Walking across it provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the scale of the falls and the surrounding riverfront. It's a popular spot for photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light casts a magical glow on the water and the city.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the bridge is a symbol of Minneapolis's industrial past and its transformation into a vibrant urban center. It connects the historic mill district with the west bank of the Mississippi, inviting visitors to explore both sides of the river and delve deeper into the city's heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit