Saint Paul, MN – Winter enthusiasts in the Highland Park neighborhood now have a dedicated space for fat tire biking, thanks to a newly established trail winding through the area’s parks and golf courses. The Highland Park Fat Tire Bike Trail, a project spearheaded by the Saint Paul Department of Parks and Recreation, provides a unique outdoor experience during the colder months, though This proves currently closed for the season due to thawing conditions.
The trail’s route takes riders through scenic areas including the bluffs behind the Highland Park Aquatic Center, the Highland 9 Golf Course, and alongside the Highland Disc Golf Course. The creation of this trail reflects a growing demand for diverse recreational opportunities within the city’s park system. Currently, the trail is closed to protect the turf as warmer temperatures cause the ground to soften, potentially causing damage from bikes and grooming equipment. The City of Saint Paul prioritizes maintaining the quality of its golf courses, which double as winter trails.
Trail Details and Guidelines
The Highland Park Fat Tire Bike Trail is designed specifically for fat tire bikes – those with 3.7-inch tires or wider – and requires riders to use low tire pressure, 8 PSI or less, for optimal performance. Riders are advised to only use the trail when it is fully frozen and to allow time for the track to set up after grooming. According to trail guidelines, sinking more than an inch into the freshly groomed trail is a sign to turn around and wait for colder temperatures.
Safety and consideration for other trail users are paramount. Bikers must yield to all other users and are expected to ride respectfully, slowing down and offering a friendly wave. Where the bike trail intersects with cross-country ski trails, bikers are instructed to ride on the opposite side of the groomed classic tracks and avoid the center of skate ski tracks. Riding on groomed classic ski tracks is prohibited. Dogs, boots, and non-fat tire bikes are not permitted on the trail. However, snowshoes are allowed.
Amenities and Access
Parking for the Highland Park Fat Tire Bike Trail is conveniently available at the Highland Park Aquatic Center, Highland National Golf Course, and Highland Picnic Pavilion parking lots, as well as street parking. The Highland National Golf Course clubhouse transforms into a ski chalet during the winter, welcoming fat tire bikers with its amenities.
The chalet offers local craft beers, a full bar, snacks, and daily specials. Ski equipment rentals, restrooms, board games, and a heated patio with a firepit are as well available. Those interested in chalet hours can visit the Cross-Country Skiing webpage for more information.
Current Conditions and Future Access
As of today, March 13, 2026, the Highland Park Fat Tire Bike Trail is closed due to thawing ground conditions, despite expectations of 5-8 inches of new snow. The Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Department emphasizes that even fresh snow is insufficient to prevent damage to the turf when the ground is soft. TrailBot currently lists the trail conditions as “meltingsloppyfreeze/thaw” and notes that the trail is closed.
The closure is a temporary measure to protect the playing surfaces of the golf courses for the spring and summer seasons. The Parks and Recreation Department will re-evaluate conditions as temperatures change.
As spring approaches, the Highland Park Fat Tire Bike Trail serves as a reminder of the diverse recreational opportunities available in Saint Paul’s park system. The city will continue to monitor conditions and reopen the trail when it is safe to do so, providing residents and visitors with a unique way to enjoy the outdoors.
What are your thoughts on the new fat tire bike trail? Share your experiences and suggestions in the comments below.
