Early Fall Hike & Hummus: Old Cedar Ave Bridge

Juni Park — Seward, Minneapolis
Korean-American UX designer, outdoors obsessive, the person your friend group texts when nobody can agree on what to do Saturday.

Alright, September. The air is starting to smell like woodsmoke and turning leaves, and the urge to get out and soak it all in before *it* (you know, The Winter) sets in is hitting hard. If you're like me, you're looking for an excuse to actually wear those fall sweaters that have been mocking you from the back of the closet since April. Good news: I've got your early fall weekend plan dialed in. It involves fresh air, stunning views, and seriously good, budget-friendly food that won't break the bank.

Head South for Fall Serenity

Forget the usual crowded city parks for a minute and point your compass south to Bloomington. The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a massive, beautiful stretch of nature, and one of its best early fall access points is the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge. It's less of a 'hidden gem' and more of a 'why don't I go here more often?' kind of place.

The Bridge to Somewhere Beautiful

The Old Cedar Avenue Bridge used to be a bustling car bridge, but now it's been lovingly restored for pedestrians and cyclists only. It's this gorgeous, weathered wooden bridge stretching over the Minnesota River and connecting to the Long Meadow Lake Unit of the Refuge. The views from the bridge itself are amazing – sweeping vistas of the river, marshlands, and the beginnings of fall color. It’s a prime spot for birdwatching (think migrating waterfowl, eagles, and more) or just breathing in the crisp air.

Look for the distinct blue herons and egrets that frequent the riverbanks. If you bring binoculars, you'll be able to spot all kinds of activity across the water. It's surprisingly peaceful for being so close to the city.

Trails for Every Pace

Once you cross the bridge, you're on the Long Meadow Lake Trail system. These trails are mostly flat, paved, or crushed limestone, making them perfect for a casual stroll, a brisk power walk, or a nice long bike ride. There are loops of varying lengths, so you can tailor your adventure. You can do a quick 2-mile loop around the lake or extend it to 5+ miles if you're feeling ambitious.

• **What to Expect:** Paved and gravel trails, boardwalks, plenty of benches.
• **Fall Foliage:** Expect to see vibrant yellows from cottonwoods and aspens, and hints of red from sumac and oak starting to pop.
• **Wildlife:** Beyond the birds, keep an eye out for deer, foxes, and even river otters if you're lucky.

It’s an easy way to feel completely immersed in nature without having to drive hours. Plus, it's free, which is always a win in my book.

What to Bring: Juni's Essentials

• **Water Bottle:** Stay hydrated.
• **Layers:** September weather can be tricky – cool in the morning, warm by afternoon. A light jacket or vest is a good call.
• **Comfortable Shoes:** For walking or biking.
• **Binoculars (Optional but Recommended):** For bird and wildlife spotting.
• **Snack:** If you plan a longer trek, a piece of fruit or a granola bar will keep you going until our next stop.
• **Camera/Phone:** For all those 'look at the pretty leaves!' photos.

Post-Hike Bites (Budget Edition)

After all that fresh air and nature immersion, you're going to be hungry. And since we just saved a bundle on park fees (because, again, it's free!), let's keep the budget-friendly vibe going with some seriously good eats nearby. Head over to Cedars Eatery in Bloomington for some fantastic Mediterranean comfort food.

Cedars Eatery: Hummus, Falafel, and More

This place is a local favorite for a reason. It's unpretentious, family-run, and the food is consistently fresh and delicious. Cedars Eatery has been serving up some of the best hummus and falafel in the south metro for years. It's the kind of place where you feel like you've stumbled upon a neighborhood secret, even though it's been there forever.

• **What to Get:** The Shawarma Plate (chicken or beef/lamb) is generous and flavorful. The Falafel Sandwich is a perfect handheld option. And honestly, just get the hummus. Trust me. It’s creamy, garlicky perfection, served with warm pita.
• **Cost:** Most entrees are under $15, and you get a lot of food for your money. Easily a '$' on the price scale.
• **Atmosphere:** Casual, clean, perfect for a post-hike refueling stop.

It’s the ideal spot to unwind, recap your nature adventure, and fill up without draining your wallet.

Getting There (Car-Free & Otherwise)

To the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge:

• **Drive:** There's a free parking lot right at the trailhead (Long Meadow Lake Trailhead, 10001 Old Cedar Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55425). It can fill up on peak weekend afternoons, so aim for earlier if you can.
• **Bus:** Metro Transit Route 540 has a stop at Old Cedar Ave S & American Blvd W, which is about a 15-20 minute walk to the bridge. Check Metro Transit's trip planner for the most current schedule.
• **Bike:** The Old Cedar Avenue Bridge is part of the extensive regional trail system. You can access it via the Minnesota River Bottoms Trail (unpaved, can be muddy) or connect from the Bloomington Ferry Bridge area via more paved routes. It’s a great destination ride.
• **Walk:** Not easily walkable from major commercial centers, but if you live in the immediate area, it's a fantastic local walk.

To Cedars Eatery (from Old Cedar Avenue Bridge):

• **Drive:** About a 10-12 minute drive north on Old Cedar Ave S, then west on 98th St W, and north on Pillsbury Ave S. Easy navigation.
• **Bus:** You'd need to catch Route 540 from Old Cedar Ave S & American Blvd W, transfer to Route 18 or 540 at another point. It's doable but will take time (30-40 minutes with transfers).
• **Bike:** Roughly 15-20 minutes, mostly on roads with bike lanes or quieter side streets.

Skip This If:

• You prefer manicured gardens over wild marshlands.
• You're looking for extreme elevation changes or rugged backcountry hiking. These trails are mostly flat and accessible.
• You absolutely need a coffee shop or brewery right at the trailhead (this is more about the nature and a separate, delicious food stop).

So, there you have it. A perfect early September escape that feels far away but is right in our backyard. Go enjoy those turning leaves and that crisp air while you still can!

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Photo by Chait Goli on Pexels