City of Lilydale: Parks & Trails

By David Olson, Realtor · October 23, 2026 · 3 min read
City of Lilydale: Parks & Trails
Twin Cities Property Finder · David Olson, Broker · License #BK3603584
Buying or selling? Call or text 952-314-9446.

The City of Lilydale lies completely in the Mississippi River National Recreation Area (MNRRA). Because of this, Lilydale locals enjoy beautiful scenery and an abundance of outdoor options.

Historic Fort Snelling: This historic fort was built in 1825 on the bluffs over the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers. Today, it is officially known as Ft. Snelling Regional State Park. Locals enjoy Minnesota Valley State Trail along Pike Island. The pedestrian trail draws bird and wildlife watchers. Visitors to the national historic landmark can also learn about military history, fur trade history, the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, and much more.

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Lilydale Regional Park: This 636-acre park is within the city. Even though it is covered in floodplain forest, urban tree and shrub species can also be spotted. Within Lilydale Regional Park, there is an abundance of activities and opportunities. Picnicking, shelters, and playgrounds are provided. Equipped with softball/baseball diamonds as well as football and soccer fields, the park is the ideal location for sporting events. Restrooms and drinking water are located throughout the park. Locals take advantage of the walking and biking trails in the beautiful natural area. Popular activities include birdwatching, fossil hunting, and fishing. Pickerel Lake is home to bluegills, crappie, northern pike, and bass. Lilydale Regional Park also connects with Harriet Island Regional Park and downtown St. Paul.

Big Rivers Regional Trail: The trail is located on the northern portion of Dakota County. The scenic 4 ½ mile paved trail spans from Eagan to Lilydale. Big Rivers Trail provides beautiful views because of its location that overlooks the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers. This trail connects with hundreds of miles of trails in the greater Twin Cities area as well as historic landmarks, including Fort Snelling, Pike Island, and Mendota.

If you have any questions regarding the city of Lilydale, Minnesota, or if you would like to sell or buy a house in the area, please feel free to visit TwinCitiesPropertyFinder.com or call 1-800-909-1953.

Please note: I don’t handle rentals or property management. I work with buyers and sellers, and that’s where I can help you most.

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