Wondering if there are any good trails near the TC for an overnight backpacking trip? Like a 8 mile loop with a site halfway? I love the BRT and SHT, but would like something a bit closer.

Afton State Park has some backpacking sites. As practice runs we go and hike about six miles on the trails, then grab our site for the night. nice area, close to the Twin Cities and good sites.

You could hike the trails along the Minnesota river from like Belle Plaine to Bloomington, there's one campground, by Jordan.

quote motox380: "You could hike the trails along the Minnesota river from like Belle Plaine to Bloomington, there's one campground, by Jordan."

I have hiked the Jordan portion to the campsite. To be honest, I have a few problems. I know the site has to be paid and permitted, but could not find anywhere a way to do that... I also read that it is horse only at the campsite, but it is on canoe maps... And maps... I could not find a map that confirms the entire trail is actually connected. It is a nice hike though.

Motox380, shame on me for such a negative post. Thanks for mentioing that trail along the MN river. That's just the kind of thing I am looking for. Especially that one being about a 10 minute drive for me. Couple years ago about this time I hiked from Jordan to the campsite with my 9 month old on my back. Beautiful trail.