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West Lakes
COMMUNITY GUIDE 2026
44 | WEST LAKES | Community Guide 2026
Regional trails provide recreation
With two major trail systems running through the west Lake Minnetonka area, it’ s no surprise that local communities have become a hub for walkers, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. The Dakota Rail Regional Trail and Luce Line State Trail both follow former railroad corridors that have been transformed into multi-use trails, offering scenic routes through some of the region’ s most beautiful landscapes.
Dakota Rail Regional Trail
The Dakota Rail Regional Trail stretches approximately 44 miles across the region, with about 13 miles located within Hennepin County in the west Lake Minnetonka area. Following the abandonment of the Dakota Rail Corridor in 2009, the route was converted into a paved, multi-use trail that now serves a wide variety of recreational users.
The trail runs from Wayzata west through communities including Orono, Minnetonka Beach, Spring Park, Mound and Minnetrista before continuing into Carver County. Along the way, it crosses Crystal Bay and Smith Bay of Lake Minnetonka, offering scenic views of the water and surrounding shoreline that make it one of the most popular trails in the area.
The paved surface supports activities such as walking, running, biking, dog-walking, in-line skating and roller skiing.
Access points throughout the corridor make it easy for residents and visitors to connect with local parks, neighborhoods and nearby businesses, creating a seamless link between communities.
Luce Line State Trail
The Luce Line State Trail extends approximately 63 miles from the western Twin Cities into central Minnesota and offers a different but equally scenic experience. Named for Colonel William Luce, the trail follows a historic rail line and provides a mix of developed and natural landscapes.
The eastern portion of the trail, which runs through the west Lake Minnetonka area, features a limestone surface suitable for biking, walking and cross-country skiing. A parallel treadway accommodates horseback riding, while snowmobiling is permitted on portions of the trail west of Stubb’ s Bay Road.
As it winds through the region, the trail passes through wooded areas, open fields and sections of restored prairie. Stands of maple and basswood trees provide shade and seasonal color, while wildlife such as deer, pheasants and other native species are often seen along the route.
Together, these trail systems provide extensive opportunities for outdoor recreation while connecting communities throughout the west Lake Minnetonka area.