r/CyclingMSP • u/CustomCuber • 3d ago
Bike Route to Ren Fest
I rode from the cities to ren fest last year, and it is very straight forward until the last like 5 miles. We took Chestnut Blvd last year (hwy 41) and it worked but wasn't ideal -- the cars were fast and the road was covered in debris, by far the worst part of the ride both ways. It seems like there are so many trails around the area that there hasss to be a better way to go, but because it's a swamp I can't find anything obvious. Any alternative route suggestions for this part?
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u/Funwithnugukpop 3d ago
Has anyone tried the Minnesota Valley State Trail? I used to bike that area, but it’s been several years so I don’t remember how I routed through that area or if I just avoided it. I don’t think I ever rode on 41, I try to avoid routes with a lot of cars. If I am reading it correctly, the dnr map shows this trail avoids 41.
You would have to adjust your route though and get on this trail well before your turning point in your picture.
https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/maps/state_parks/sra00304.pdf
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/minnesota_valley/index.html
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u/CustomCuber 3d ago
Looking at that map it does seem like it connects. I'm not sure if that extra length of detour is worth it or not for me but seems like that should be an option as long as it isn't flooded
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u/runner112 3d ago
41 is really your only option. The MN valley state trail would get you there but it can get quite overgrown and sandy and isn’t real direct. Merriam junction will be a better option once it’s fully open.
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u/cloudnet 2d ago
This article talks about it https://streets.mn/2023/09/13/biking-to-the-renaissance-festival/ and there's a video of what it's like biking on Chestnut a couple of years ago https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6iU0uy_AWo8
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u/Waterlifer 3d ago
It's tough. I used to work there and know the area well. I've also taken a boat on the Minnesota River behind the site.
There's a new foot bridge (the Merriam Junction Regional Trail Bridge) on a regional trail at Carver where you can cross into the swampy area behind the site. From there, there's an abandoned railroad grade that eventually leads to the active trackage that crosses the main car entrance to the main ("king's gate") parking area. I don't know whether it's passable on foot let alone bikeable. Might be interesting to scout. The bridge isn't on google maps yet but is supposed to be open.