Afton North River Trail Loop Hiking Guide
Afton State Park is where the Twin Cities go to feel like they have left the Twin Cities. Forty minutes east of Minneapolis, the St. Croix River runs between wooded bluffs about 300 feet high, and the park's trails drop from open prairie to the riverbank and climb straight back up. The North River Trail loop is the park's most popular hike and a real leg workout by Minnesota standards.
Permit: Minnesota state park vehicle permit required: $7 one-day or $35 year-round
The Loop
Mapping sources put the loop at about 3.9 miles with roughly 500 feet of gain, though some measure it closer to 670. From the visitor centre, the route descends stairs to the St. Croix, follows the crushed-limestone river trail past the swimming beach, then climbs back up through ravines and prairie to close the loop. The climb out from the river is the hardest part of the day.
Bluffs and Prairie
Afton's landscape alternates between steep, wooded ravines and restored prairie on the blufftops, with scenic overlooks of the St. Croix valley. The park has about 20 miles of hiking trail, so it is easy to extend the loop — a longer north and south loop of around 6.5 miles is a common option. Bald eagles are often seen along the river.
Seasons
Summer brings prairie wildflowers and the chance to cool off at the river beach, though the DNR noted zebra mussel shells there in 2026, so water shoes are wise. Autumn colour in the ravines is excellent. In winter, about 12 miles of trail are open for hiking and snowshoeing, with about a mile of paved trail cleared, while groomed ski trails are off limits to hikers and dogs.
Permit and Hours
A Minnesota state park vehicle permit is required: $7 for one day or $35 for a year-round permit, with a discounted permit for a second vehicle. Military veterans and tribal members can get free permits. The park is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. It sits about 5 miles south of the city of Afton, with a Hastings mailing address.
Practicalities
Leashed dogs are welcome on the hiking trails; Minnesota state parks require a leash of six feet or less. Dogs are not allowed on groomed ski trails in winter. Ticks and mosquitoes are common in the prairie and ravines from late spring through summer. Carry water for the climb back up from the river on hot days.
Hiking tips for Afton North River Trail Loop
- Save energy for the climb back up from the St. Croix — it is the steepest part of the loop.
- Buy your state park vehicle permit before you park: $7 a day or $35 for the year.
- Wear water shoes at the river beach; the DNR noted zebra mussel shells in 2026.
- Keep dogs on a six-foot leash and off groomed ski trails in winter.
- Check for ticks after walking through the prairie in late spring and summer.
Nearby trails to explore
- William O'Brien Upper Park Trail
- Interstate Park River and Railroad Trail Loop
- Lebanon Hills Loop
Hike this trail with TrailMates
Afton's bluffs are the best leg workout near the Twin Cities. Use TrailMates to find Minneapolis and St. Paul hikers heading to the St. Croix. Download the TrailMates app to connect.