Three Rivers Park District

The glacial ridges and hilly terrain of northeast Scott County make Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve one of the most challenging cross-country ski areas in the Twin Cities. The terrain also is popular with horseback riders, mountain bikers, bird watchers and hikers.

With the exception of the trails, this 2,400-acre park reserve remains undeveloped. The extensive forests make this the best park in the system for woodland songbirds. In 2004, the park was designated as an "Important Bird Area" by the National Audubon Society.

hiking Turf hiking trails (21.4 miles) - Most turf trails are multi-use. The 2 mile Wood Duck trail is a hiking only trail; it is very hilly and takes hikers through oak woods. It can be accessed from the trailhead.

Horse trails (13.9 miles) - Riders can enjoy the scenic beauty of this park reserve on horseback year-round. A trailer parking lot is available. Use of horseback trails requires a pass. A $5 daily pass for each horse can be purchased at trailheads. An annual permit is available by calling 763/559-9000.

Group horse camp - Located in the southern section of the park, this camp can accommodate 20 horses. Reservations are required. More Information

Single track mountain bike and hike trail - A seven-mile advanced loop, a two-and-a-half-mile intermediate loop and an eight-tenths of a mile easy loop are offered in this sustainable trail. The course also includes several technical features and varying levels of difficulty to allow a wide range of users to use the system and expand their skills. The trail offers sustained climbs through a wooded area and several interesting views of the wetland complex tucked between the more difficult trail loops. View a map of the mountain bike trail (PDF).

Dog trails (4.2 miles) - The turf dog trail at Murphy-Hanrehan is a part of the horse trail. The trail can be accessed from the horse trailer parking lot on Sunset Lake Road. Dog-walkers are required to keep their dogs on leashes no longer than 6 feet and must clean up after the pets. Dogs must not be allowed to interfere with other trail users. Violators will be fined.

Boat access to Murphy Lake
Concrete boat launch, located off County Road 75 (Murphy Lake Boulevard). No gas motors or gas augers allowed; electric trolling motors only. Black bullhead, black crappie, bluegill, yellow perch. Stocked with walleye fry in 1998.

skiers Cross-country ski trails (19.4K) - These challenging, groomed trails are for advanced-level skiing and ski-skating. The trails have a reputation for challenge and exhilaration. The trails feature steep uphill grades and downhill runs through thick woods. They are located in the northeastern part of the park reserve. Trails are open from sunrise until sunset. A daily or annual Three Rivers Park District ski pass is required.

4 miles of snowmobile trail (no trailer parking) - This stretch of trail provides a connection across the southern edge of the park to an outside snowmobile trail system.