Unwinding on the Winchell: Your Guide to Gorge Views

Juni Park — Seward, Minneapolis
Korean-American UX designer, outdoors obsessive, the person your friend group texts when nobody can agree on what to do Saturday.

Alright, friends, it’s late August. The State Fair is winding down, school supplies are on sale, and suddenly everyone remembers they have exactly three weeks left of ‘summer fun’ before the leaves change. If you’re anything like me, you’re looking for a little quiet escape from the buzz, a place to soak up the last of the warm breeze without battling crowds or spending a fortune. I’ve got just the spot for you: the Winchell Trail.

It’s a gem tucked right into the city, offering some of the best river views you’ll find, without the throngs of people you’d see by the Stone Arch Bridge. Think of it as your personal late-summer detox walk.

What is the Winchell Trail?

The Winchell Trail isn't a paved promenade; it’s a rustic, unpaved footpath that hugs the bluff on the east bank of the Mississippi River. It’s part of the larger Mississippi Gorge Regional Park, running for about three miles from the Franklin Avenue Bridge all the way south to the area near Minnehaha Park. It’s named after Newton H. Winchell, a state geologist who charted the river’s formations back in the 1800s. Basically, it’s been here a while, and it’s got history along with its beauty.

You’ll find yourself winding through mature woodlands, with dramatic overlooks of the river gorge, exposed limestone bluffs, and incredible tree canopy. It’s not a ‘stroll in the park’ in the traditional sense — there are stairs, roots, and uneven terrain — but that’s what makes it feel like a real escape.

Why Go Now? Late Summer Serenity

Late August is the sweet spot for the Winchell. Here’s why:

• Cooler Temps: The thick tree cover provides welcome shade, and the river often offers a gentle breeze, making it bearable even on warmer days.
• Fewer Bugs: While you should always bring bug spray (it’s Minnesota, after all), the peak mosquito season of early summer is mostly behind us.
• Water Levels: The river often flows a bit lower, revealing more of the geology and making for clearer views across the water.
• Quiet Escape: Most people are focused on the last big splash of summer, so the trails tend to be less crowded. It’s perfect for some introspection or a peaceful walk with a friend.

Your Adventure Plan: Getting There

Since I don’t own a car, I always plan my trips with transit, walking, or biking in mind. The Winchell Trail is surprisingly accessible, with a few good entry points.

By Bike

The Winchell Trail itself is not bike-friendly — it’s a hiking path, remember? — but it’s easily accessed from the East River Road Parkway trail, which runs parallel to it. You can lock up your bike at several points along the parkway and descend into the trail. There are Nice Ride stations at Franklin Avenue East and East River Parkway, and at Minnehaha Park.

By Bus

Your best bet for bus access depends on where you want to start your hike. I usually recommend starting around Franklin Avenue or 36th Street, then hiking south. You can always turn around and head back, or make it a point-to-point hike if you plan for a bus at the other end.

• Franklin Avenue Entrance (near East River Parkway): Routes 2, 7, 9, and 22 have stops within a 10-15 minute walk. Check Metro Transit for the most current schedules and stop locations near ‘Franklin Ave E & East River Pkwy, Minneapolis’.
• 36th Street Entrance (near East River Parkway): Routes 7, 9, and 23 are good options. Look for stops around ‘E 36th St & East River Pkwy, Minneapolis’.
• Minnehaha Park Area: If you want to start or end near Minnehaha Park, Route 7 and the METRO Blue Line Light Rail (Minnehaha Park Station) are your best bets.

By Car

If you’re driving, street parking can be found on residential streets adjacent to the parkway, especially near the various access points. There are also small parking lots along East River Parkway, though they can fill up on busy weekends. Just be mindful of parking signs. Try searching ‘Mississippi Gorge Regional Park, Minneapolis’ on your map app and look for nearby street parking around Franklin Avenue East, East 36th Street, or East 44th Street.

What to Expect on the Trail

The Terrain

This is a natural surface trail. Expect dirt, sand, roots, and rocks. There are some wooden staircases at steeper sections, especially near the ends of the trail. Good, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are a must. Leave the flip-flops at home.

The Views

As you traverse the bluff, you’ll get glimpses — and sometimes wide-open panoramas — of the Mississippi River. Keep an eye out for wildlife: eagles, herons, and various songbirds are common. You’ll see geological formations, including sandstone and limestone outcroppings, remnants of Minnesota’s ancient past. It’s a surprising amount of wilderness right in the city.

Points of Interest

• Franklin Avenue Overlook: A good starting point with grand views of the river and the historic bridge.
• 44th Street Overlook: Another popular spot for river vistas.
• The Bluff Itself: Throughout the trail, you’ll encounter interpretive signs explaining the geology and ecology of the gorge. Take a moment to read them; it’s pretty fascinating stuff.

What to Bring (The Essentials)

• Water: Crucial, especially on a warm day. There aren’t many places to refill along the trail itself.
• Snacks: A granola bar or some trail mix is always a good idea. There are plenty of spots to pause and enjoy a quick bite with a view.
• Good Shoes: As mentioned, proper footwear is key.
• Bug Spray: A small bottle is peace of mind.
• Sunscreen: Even with tree cover, you’ll be exposed in spots.
• Camera: You’ll want to capture those views.
• Small backpack: To carry all this, hands-free.

Skip this if:

• You prefer paved, flat paths. This trail is rugged.
• You have significant mobility issues with stairs or uneven ground.
• You’re looking for a quick, urban stroll. This is more of a deliberate hike.

The Winchell Trail is a fantastic way to reconnect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the Mississippi River without ever leaving the city. It’s free, it’s refreshing, and it’s exactly what late August calls for. Go on, get out there before the leaves really start to turn!

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Photo by Kanishk Gabel on Pexels