Maple Plain MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Maple Plain, Minnesota.
1. Baker Park Reserve
NATURAL LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Baker Park Reserve sprawls across 2,700 acres of natural landscape in Maple Plain, offering visitors a diverse range of outdoor activities. The park includes a beach area for swimming, campgrounds for extended stays, and even a golf course for recreation enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the smooth paved surfaces for walking or cycling while taking in the beautiful lake views from the picnic tables.
2. Pioneer Creek
SERENE WATERWAY EXPERIENCE
Pioneer Creek offers a peaceful natural retreat for visitors to Maple Plain looking to connect with nature. The creek provides opportunities for fishing, wildlife observation, and peaceful contemplation away from the bustle of everyday life. Its winding waters create a picturesque setting that changes with the seasons, making it worth visiting throughout the year.
3. Arcola Trestle
HISTORIC RAILWAY BRIDGE
Arcola Trestle stands as a popular cycling highlight near Maple Plain, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. This historic railway bridge has been converted for recreational use as part of the Dakota Rail Regional Trail system. Cyclists and pedestrians can enjoy crossing this engineering marvel while taking in panoramic vistas of the natural beauty below.
4. Dakota Rail Regional Trail
SCENIC MULTI-USE PATHWAY
Dakota Rail Regional Trail offers an exceptional outdoor experience for cyclists and hikers near Maple Plain. The trail follows a former railroad corridor, providing users with a flat, accessible route through some of Minnesota's most beautiful landscapes. Along the way, travelers can enjoy views of Crystal Bay and Lake Minnetonka, with sunset viewpoints that are particularly spectacular.
5. Wolsfeld Lake
DIVERSE FISHING DESTINATION
Wolsfeld Lake spans 34 acres near Maple Plain and serves as home to a diverse range of fish species including Black Bullhead, Black Crappie, Bluegill, and Northern Pike. The lake is nestled within the scenic Wolsfeld Woods Scientific and Natural Area, enhancing its natural appeal. Anglers and nature enthusiasts alike can appreciate this peaceful body of water throughout the changing seasons.
6. Wolsfeld Woods Scientific and Natural Area
ANCIENT MAPLE FOREST PRESERVE
Wolsfeld Woods was one of Minnesota's earliest Scientific and Natural Areas, established in 1978 to protect its remarkable ecological features. The preserve boasts some of the state's largest sugar maple trees, creating an impressive canopy over the forest floor. Hikers can explore this living museum of natural history while enjoying the northwestern section enhanced by the beautiful Wolsfeld Lake.
7. Lake Minnetonka
PREMIER BOATING DESTINATION
Lake Minnetonka is one of Minnesota's largest and most popular lakes, located just a short drive from Maple Plain. This sprawling body of water features numerous bays, peninsulas, and islands that create over 125 miles of shoreline for exploration. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and waterfront dining at this beloved recreational landmark of the Twin Cities region.
8. Gale Woods Farm
WORKING EDUCATIONAL FARM
Gale Woods Farm offers visitors a chance to experience a working farm within the Three Rivers Park District near Maple Plain. The 410-acre property demonstrates sustainable agriculture practices while providing educational opportunities for all ages. Visitors can interact with farm animals, learn about food production, and enjoy hiking trails with scenic views of Whaletail Lake.
9. Carver Park Reserve
DIVERSE OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Carver Park Reserve encompasses over 3,700 acres of diverse landscape not far from Maple Plain, offering year-round recreational opportunities. The park features wetlands, woodlands, and prairies along with the Lowry Nature Center where visitors can learn about local wildlife. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities ranging from hiking and bird watching to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing depending on the season.
10. Lake Rebecca Park Reserve
WILDLIFE-RICH RECREATIONAL PARADISE
Lake Rebecca Park Reserve spans 2,200 acres of forests, prairies, and wetlands just northwest of Maple Plain. The park features a 252-acre lake that provides excellent fishing opportunities and a swimming beach for summer enjoyment. Visitors can spot abundant wildlife including deer, foxes, and over 175 species of birds while exploring the park's extensive trail system.
11. Landscape Arboretum
BOTANICAL WONDER COLLECTION
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum showcases more than 1,200 acres of gardens, model landscapes, and natural areas not far from Maple Plain. As part of the University of Minnesota, this living museum features more than 5,000 plant species and varieties, with seasonal displays that transform throughout the year. Visitors can explore miles of trails, appreciate the sculptural art installations, or attend educational programs about horticulture and conservation.
12. Wayzata Beach
UPSCALE LAKEFRONT RECREATION
Wayzata Beach offers a charming lakefront experience on Lake Minnetonka's shores, within driving distance of Maple Plain. The well-maintained sandy beach provides swimming opportunities in a supervised environment during summer months. Visitors can combine beach time with exploring the upscale downtown Wayzata area, featuring boutique shopping and waterfront dining options.
13. Noerenberg Memorial Gardens
ELEGANT LAKESIDE GARDENS
Noerenberg Memorial Gardens is considered one of Minnesota's finest formal gardens, situated on the shores of Crystal Bay on Lake Minnetonka near Maple Plain. The gardens feature elegant formal plantings, including annual and perennial displays that create a peaceful oasis for contemplation and appreciation of horticultural beauty. Visitors can enjoy the lakeside setting, spectacular spring flowering displays, and the historical significance of this former estate property.
14. Elm Creek Park Reserve
VAST ALL-SEASON PLAYGROUND
Elm Creek Park Reserve is the largest park in Hennepin County's system at 4,900 acres, located northeast of Maple Plain. The park offers an incredible range of activities including swimming at the man-made swimming pond, mountain biking on designated trails, and winter activities at the winter recreation area featuring downhill skiing and snowboarding. Nature enthusiasts can explore diverse ecosystems including forests, wetlands, and restored prairies while watching for abundant wildlife.
15. Luce Line State Trail
HISTORIC RAIL-TRAIL CORRIDOR
The Luce Line State Trail extends for nearly 63 miles from Plymouth westward, passing near Maple Plain along its scenic route. This former railroad corridor has been transformed into a multi-use trail accommodating hikers, cyclists, horseback riders, and snowmobilers depending on the section and season. Trail users enjoy passing through a variety of landscapes including wooded areas, wetlands, and prairie remnants while connecting with small towns and rural landscapes along the way.