Willow Creek Reservoir Loop

The Willow Creek Reservoir Loop is a 2.2-mile-long trail that goes around the 60-acre Willow Reservoir 6A. The trail is located in the Willow Creek Reservoir Park in the southwest portion of Rochester, Minnesota. The parking area for this loop is located on the west end of Lone Pine Drive. This parking lot can accommodate about 20 vehicles. Most of the trail has a natural surface that is mowed, however there is a section of gravel where the trail crosses the dam. Dogs are allowed on the trail and may be off leash. It should be noted that the reservoir has had toxic blue-green algae blooms so if hiking with your dog be sure to bring along water. The trail passes through hardwood forests, prairies, and wetlands and provides numerous scenic views of the reservoir.

Begin this hike by following a mowed path due west from the middle of the parking lot. The path will soon intersect with the main loop; take a left onto the loop. After about 0.4 miles, take a sharp right. The trail next leads to a marshy area near Willow Creek. This section of the trail may be muddy or even under water depending on the water levels. At the 0.8-mile mark, take a right and shortly you will cross Willow Creek. The next mile of the trail goes on the west side of the reservoir. Once the dam is reached, head east on the gravel path across the embankment. After hiking across the dam, head south back to the parking lot.

The Willow Creek Reservoir Loop is an easy hike that is great for almost any fitness level as there is little elevation gain and the ups and downs are gradual. There are no fees to use the Willow Creek Reservoir Park.