Riley Creek Nature Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The Riley Creek Conservation Area is one of 13 conservation areas managed by the City of Eden Prairie. It preserves and protects a tranquil section of Riley Creek as it flows from Staring Lake to Grass Lake and then into the Minnesota River. This trail is a surprisingly quiet refuge given its location within a fairly dense suburban area. It is a nice run summer or winter (snowshoes or traction devices maybe needed then).

This hike starts from the western end of the trail at the parking lot off of LaForet Drive. There are also access points (but very limited parking) off of Tila Ridge, Sky Lane, and Cedarcrest Drive. You can also access the eastern end of his trail from a parking lot and paved trail in Cedar Hills Park.

From the trailhead off LaForet Drive, follow the trail southeast, go right at the next two trail junctions, and descend to a stout bridge over Riley Creek. Go up and along a rise above the creek to another bridge, cross it and turn right (east) to follow the trail to your turn-around point on the edge of Cedar Hills Park. Double back to the second bridge you crossed, keep right, cross a small third bridge, and climb the hill, keeping right at the next three trail junctions to return to the trailhead.