My ride took advantage of a number of trails and required riding on some somewhat busy roads. Overall, it was a very enjoyable ride with few issues. But of course, I learned a few lessons.
The Route
I took the HCRRA light rail trails from the Midtown Greenway in Minneapolis. These trails run on old rail beds and are mostly free of road crossings. You can go from the heart of Minneapolis out to Excelsior in a nice, rural-like setting.
I took a break along the water in Downtown Excelsior before proceeding south on Water Street to MN Highway 7. After getting lost trying to find Galpin Lake Road, I finally found it and made my way south. The road had a path but the road was quiet enough and smooth enough to make for a better ride.
I eventually followed some trails along MN Highway 5 in Chanhassen. The trails were super confusing, as they crossed under the highway in tunnels but it wasn't clear where they went. I wanted to go east from Galpin Blvd to the southern HCRRA light rail trail that runs just east of Eden Prairie Road. The trails switched sides of Highway 5 and ultimately I figured it out. The trails are older and have many bumps. I get spoiled with most of the MPRB trails.
I left the trail and followed various roads through the Opus office park and then made my way across Edina just north of MN Highway 62.
Normally I don't associate enjoyable bike rides with going out to suburban neighborhoods, but this was a beautiful day and exploring made for a fun outing.
[A corn field along Coulter Drive in Chanhassen.]
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