The boat launch is under Hwy 494, on the South St. Paul side of the river. Take the Hardman Ave exit from 494, and go north on Hardman. The first intersection is Verderosa. Head toward the river and under the bridge. Parking lot is right next to river.
This is an 18 mile all trails route. Starts at DNR boat launch, and head north to Kaposia Park. Then join the new Robert Piram trail. Continue north to Plato Blvd., then turn around and return. That's about 12 miles. Continue on trail south to Rock Island Swing Bridge Pier, and then return to boat launch. That adds about 6 miles, for a total of 18. Parts of the path are clear, but some parts have packed snow and ice. Be careful!
Far and away the majority of the ride was dry trail. The snow and ice sections were either easy to get around or no issue for fat tire (even without studs!)
Super nice day. 5 bald eagles. Only bummer was a long wait for train trying to leave the DNR lot!
This trail is the east side of a ride I do quite often. But this was the first time I have been on the new part of the trail north of the dog park. I can imagine an easy connection from Plato over to Harriet Island and the Lilydale trail.
Thanks for posting the ride!
Kent