Beaver Island Trail | St Cloud

Beaver Island Trail is an approximately 11.4-mile paved multi-use trail located in central Minnesota, primarily running through St. Cloud and extending north to Clearwater. This trail follows a former railroad corridor, originally part of the Minneapolis and Northwestern Railway, and has been converted into a recreational path that offers a variety of outdoor activities year-round. It is well-known for blending natural scenic beauty with urban and suburban access points, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.

Trail Route and Features

The trail begins near the St. Cloud State University campus, weaving along the Mississippi River corridor through the heart of St. Cloud, including access to Beaver Island Park and areas adjacent to the River's Edge Convention Center. From there, it stretches northward, passing through residential neighborhoods, parks, and natural landscapes, ultimately reaching the City of Clearwater.

The trail’s surface is fully paved with asphalt, making it accessible and comfortable for a wide range of users, including pedestrians, cyclists, inline skaters, and individuals using wheelchairs or strollers. It is maintained to accommodate different user types and offers smooth transitions between urban and natural environments.

Recreational Uses and Activities

Cycling and Walking: The paved surface and gentle grades make the trail ideal for recreational biking and walking, suitable for all ages and skill levels. The trail’s length allows for short strolls or longer rides that can extend over 11 miles.

Inline Skating and Running: Its smooth pavement is popular for inline skating and running. The scenic route, combined with minimal vehicle crossings, provides a safe and enjoyable experience.

Cross-Country Skiing and Snowmobiling: In winter months, the trail supports cross-country skiing. Snowmobiling is permitted on designated sections beginning December 1st, making it a versatile winter recreational corridor.

Fishing Access: Certain points along the trail near the Mississippi River and smaller water bodies offer fishing access, allowing anglers to enjoy a quiet retreat along the water.

Scenic and Environmental Highlights

The trail features multiple sections that provide picturesque views of the Mississippi River, particularly around Beaver Island Park. Here, users can experience serene river landscapes framed by mature trees and natural vegetation. The path travels through several green spaces and parks, offering glimpses of local wildlife such as songbirds, ducks, and small mammals.

Along the route, natural habitats vary from riverfront woodlands to open grasslands and urban parklands, providing an educational outdoor experience. Interpretive signage is occasionally present to inform visitors about the area's natural and cultural history.

Recent Development and Improvements

The Beaver Island Trail has undergone phased expansions and improvements to enhance user experience:

Phase 3 Extension: A recent addition includes a 0.35-mile stretch behind the River’s Edge Convention Center, featuring a grand plaza with seating, lighting, and stairs. This extension improves connectivity and provides a social gathering space within the urban core.

County Expansion: Stearns County has developed a 10-foot-wide paved segment extending the trail north from Opportunity Drive in St. Cloud to Clearwater. This extension connects residential and natural areas, with plans to link the county-maintained section to the city portion for continuous trail access.

Trail Access and Amenities

There are several convenient access points along the Beaver Island Trail:

St. Cloud State University Area: Entry points near 15th and 16th Streets South provide easy access for students and residents.

Beaver Island Park: A popular access location featuring parking, picnic areas, and scenic river views.

River Bluffs Regional Park: Located near 38th Street South, offering parking and trail connections.

Clearwater Terminus: The northern end near County Highway 75 includes parking and serves as a gateway to the broader regional trail system.

Amenities along the trail include benches, trash receptacles, and rest areas. The trail is well-signed for navigation and safety, with clear markers at intersections and points of interest.

Safety and Usage Guidelines

The trail is designed to accommodate multiple users simultaneously. Users are encouraged to:

Stay right to allow faster traffic to pass.

Alert others when passing.

Observe posted speed limits for cyclists.

Use caution at roadway crossings and intersections.

Respect seasonal restrictions for snowmobiling and skiing.

Overall Experience

Beaver Island Trail offers a versatile and accessible outdoor experience that connects urban environments with natural beauty. Its mix of river views, parks, and neighborhoods makes it a vital recreational asset for the St. Cloud region. Whether for exercise, commuting, or leisurely exploration, the trail supports a broad spectrum of activities throughout the year, inviting users to engage with the landscape and community in a healthy, scenic setting.