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Root River Trail Towns

Visit the Root River Trail System and Towns

  • Towns
    • Chatfield
    • Fountain
    • Preston
    • Harmony
    • Lanesboro
    • Whalan
    • Peterson
    • Rushford Village
    • Rushford
    • Houston
    • La Crescent
  • Trails
    • Root River State Trail System
    • Water Trails
    • Hiking Trails
    • ATV/UTV Trails
    • Snowmobile Trails
    • Snowshoeing
    • Cross Country Skiing
  • Explore
    • Attractions
    • Recreation
    • Eat & Drink
    • Stores & Services
    • Stay
    • Trip Ideas
  • Events
    • 60-Mile Garage Sale
    • Root River Valley Autumn Trail
    • Community Events
  • Plan
    • Business Directory
    • Trail Wide Services
    • Bike Share program
    • News
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    • About
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B&B Bowl and Restaurant
401 Kansas Street NW,
Preston, MN
Directions

B&B Bowl has 8 synthetic lanes with new pins and a variety of bowling balls to use if you do not have your own and offer shoe rental. Full service restaurant and bar.

Phone
507-765-2522
Website
www.bandbbowlandrestaurant.com
Big Springs Farm Pumpkins & Corn Maze
32060 Furrow Rd,
Lanesboro
Directions

Southeastern Minnesota fall destination for family fun! Ten-acre corn maze, pick-your-own-pumpkin patch, 20+ activities, all on an operating farm. Open weekends and MEA, mid-September to Halloween.

Phone
507 216-7946
Website
www.bigspringsfarmmn.com
Facebook
BikeShare Program
Rushford, Peterson, Fountain, Preston, Harmony

Borrow a bicycle during the warm-weather months at the Rushford Public Library, Peterson Station Museum, Fountain City Hall, Preston Visitors Center, or Harmony Visitory Center. Adult bicycles available for use, at no charge, but on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cedar Valley Outfitters
Whalan, MN

Year-round - Canoes, Kayaks, tubes, bikes, cross-country skis, snowshoes, guided fishing trips.

Phone
507-467-9000
Website
www.cedarvalleyresort.com
Chatfield OHV/ATV Trail
Chatfield
Directions

This 19-mile trail was developed by a group of neighbors with a passion for ATVs. The trail is entirely on private land and leads riders through backdrops of field, forest, pasture and woods. Please respect the private landowners and stay on the marked trails. The trail is provided by the City of Chatfield and maintained by the Chatfield ATV Trails Club.

Website
www.dnr.state.mn.us/ohv/trail
Chatfield Swimming Pool
214 Union St NE,
Chatfield
Directions
Phone
507 867-3509
Website
www.ci.chatfield.mn.us
Facebook
Chosen Valley Golf Course
1801 Main St. S,
Chatfield
Directions

The Chosen Valley Golf Club offers terrific views and challenging play for golfers at every skill level. 9-hole - Par 35.

Phone
507 867-4305
Website
chosenvalleygolfclub.com
Facebook
City of Preston’s 9-Hole Fishing Course
Preston
Website
.prestonmnchamber.com/play/fishing-hunting/fishing-course
Creekside Park
Rushford

Large playground, basketball & tennis courts, picnic shelters, ball fields, & restrooms off Hwy 43 and accessible from the Root River Trail.

Disc Golf Course – Groen Park
405 Third Street SW,
Chatfield
Directions
Driftless Fly Fishing Company & Driftless Kayak
Preston

Supplies and guided trips. Kayak rentals and sales.

Phone
507-765-4915
Website
www.minnesotaflyfishing.com
Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center
28097 Goodview Drive,
Lanesboro
Directions

Let our professional guides help you reach new heights on our ropes course or explore Bluff Country on our nine miles of hiking, mountain and fat tire biking and snow-shoe/ski trails.

Phone
507-467-2437
Website
www.eagle-bluff.org
Eagle Cliff Campground & Lodging
35455 State Hwy 16,
Lanesboro
Directions

Located just three miles east of Lanesboro, Eagle Cliff offers something for everyone. Accommodations include river-front tent sites, full hookups and a five-room motel.

Phone
507-467-2598
Website
www.eagle-cliff.com
Facebook
Eagle Cliff Campground Outfitting
35455 State Hwy 16
Lanesboro
Directions

Eagle Cliff Campground offers a variety of rentals, including canoes, kayaks and tubes. Two hour tube float and two or four-hour trips for canoes and kayaks and shuttle service available.

Phone
507-467-2598
Website
www.eagle-cliff.com
Ferndale Golf Course
Rushford

Beautiful, mature, 9-hole-Par 36 golf course nestled in the bluffs with cart rentals. Relax in this scenic golf course’s clubhouse or on the surrounding deck with a cold beverage and meal from the Bar & Grill.

Phone
507-864-7626
Website
www.ferndalegolfcourse.com
Fit Express
Harmony

Fit Express has 24 hour fitness centers in Harmony, Preston and Spring Valley, offering cardio machines, strength training equipment and free weights. Join one gym and work out at any of them for one low price! Insurance reimbursements available. No joining fees! Reasonable rates. Family rates and monthly memberships available.

Phone
507-886-5351
Website
www.fitexpressllc.com
Gator Greens Mini Golf
Whalan

Seasonal - 9 hole Mini Golf Course

Phone
507-251-5101
Website
www.cyclin-inn.com
Harmony Disc Golf
Harmony

The Harmony Lions Club Disc Golf Course is a fun place for all ages. The course offers 9 holes. Discs are available at the Harmony Visitor Center. Located at the Trail Head Park, 2nd Ave NW & 4th Street NW.

Phone
507-886-2469
Harmony Golf Course
Harmony

Par 36, 9-hole course open to the public, little to no wait for tee times.

Phone
507-886-5622
Website
www.harmonygolfclub.com
Historic Forestville
Preston

Explore the choices and changes that faced the inhabitants of this area — from ancient peoples to today’s residents. Round out the visit with a game of croquet or horseshoes on the lawn.

Phone
507-765-2785
Website
www.mnhs.org/forestville
Houston-Money Creek Snowriders
Houston

Houtson's snowmobile club maintains a well?groomed trail system which runs through some of the most scenic areas of the state. 

Website
www.facebook.com/houstonmoney.snowriders
Houston’s South Park
Houston

Houston's South Park features an archery range and trails for hiking, horseback riding and spaces for primitive camping.

Houston Nature Center / Trailhead Park
Houston

Trailhead Park at the Houston Nature Center offers a picnic shelter, primitive campsite, band shell, and observation decks to view nesting boxes and migrating waterfowl on our pond. The natural playground features a zip-line (weekends only), tree house, and play area. The park also features the Houston Nature Center, where visitors will find wildlife exhibits as well as educational programs.

Phone
507-896-4668
Website
www.houstonnaturecenter.com
La Crescent Community Aquatic Center
608 S. Seventh Street,
La Crescent
Directions
Phone
507 895-8712
Website
www.cityoflacrescent-mn.gov
La Crescent Community Arena
520 S 14th Street,
La Crescent
Directions

Lancer Youth Hockey is the primary occupant. The ice is also open for figure skating, open skating, and broom ball. When the ice is gone, concerts, gun shows, and the La Crescent High School graduation also utilize the facility.

Phone
507 895-4160
Website
www.lacrescenthockey.com
Lanesboro Public Golf Club
900 Parkway Avenue South,
Lanesboro
Directions

Open to public. No tee-times are required. This 9-hole golf course offers elevation changes and gives all players the opportunity to challenge their game. Restaurant available in the club house.

Phone
507-467-3742
Website
lanesborogolfcourse.com
Little River General Store
105 Coffee Street E,
Lanesboro
Directions

Lanesboro's original outfitting and bike shop (37 yrs). Bicycle sales and rentals, tube rentals. Full line of bike accessories, clothing and gift items. Shuttle service available (restrictions apply).

Phone
507-467-2943
Website
www.lrgeneralstore.com
Lost Creek Hiking Trail
Chatfield
Directions

The Lost Creek Hiking Trail is a natural surface trail that runs in one direction 6.5 miles along private land. This technical trail features steep climbs and bluff-top vistas, several creek crossings, and challenging terrain. The trail is open to the public year round (except firearms season in November) and is maintained by the Bluff Country Hiking Club. Funds raised from this event will be used directly for trail improvements.

Website
www.bluffcountryhikingclub.org
Magelssen Bluff Park & Hiking
Rushford

Access 1.5 miles of looping hiking trails from Winona Street in Rushford or drive to the top via Hwy 30 West to Magelssen Dr. for stunning views!

Magnum Sports Indoor Archery Range and Pro Shop
21 1st St SE,
Chatfield
Directions
Phone
507 867-4399
Website
magnumsports.com
Money Creek / Vinegar Ridge Recreation Area
Houston

Vinegar Ridge Recreation Area is located along the 42-mile multiple-use paved Root River State Trail and six miles of horseback riding trails. Visitors can also canoe or kayak for a short trip along the Root River State Water Trail within the recreational area. The eight campsites are considered "primitive."

Phone
507-724-2107
Website
www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_forests/facilities
Mound Prairie Scientific and Natural Area
Houston
Directions

Hike the goat prairies in early to late summer to find blooming wildflowers. Spectacular views from this outstanding prairie SNA make the upward climb well worthwhile.

Phone
651-259-5800
Website
www.dnr.state.mn.us/snas
Mystery Cave / Forestville State Park
Preston

Mystery Cave is a guided tour of Minnesota's longest known cave, with stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and beautiful underground pools, and a maze of interconnecting passages.

Phone
507-352-5111
Website
www.exploreminnesota.com/things-to-do/5411/mystery-cave-forestville-mystery-cave-state-park-activities
Niagara Cave- Mini Golf Course
Harmony

Play an outdoor 18-hole mini golf course before or after touring Niagara Cave!

Phone
507-886-6606
Website
www.niagaracave.com
Nordic Lanes & Lounge
Rushford

Bowling for family fun--call ahead for open bowl times; full service bar/lounge; full menu of food and treats from The Creamery next door.

Phone
507-864-7799
Website
rushfordnordiclanes.com
Oak Ridge / Wet Bark Recreation Area
Houston

Wet Bark Recreation Area offers 11 miles of horseback riding trails, hiking trails, and six miles of designated mountain biking trails in the summer, and 11 miles of ski touring trails and six miles of snowmobile trails in the winter. The campground's five horse campsites are considered "primitive."

Phone
507-724-2107
Website
dnr.state.mn.us/state_forests/facilities
Owl City Cycles
111 E Cedar St,
Houston
Directions

The only bike shop in Houston County and in close proximity to the Root River Bike Trail.
Providing everything from an emergency repair to an inviting place to hang your helmet and talk bikes.

Phone
507 896-2100
Website
www.owlcitycycles.com
Peterson’s City Park
Peterson

Playground, restrooms, ball fields, volleyball court, and picnic shelter next to the Root River Trail.

Peterson Overlook Trail
Peterson

A short walk from town or the Root River Trail, hike the Overlook Trail to surround yourself in wooded bluffland and enjoy amazing valley views.

Pine Creek Golf Course
3815 N. Pine Creek Road,
La Crescent
Directions

Pine Creek Golf Course is a beautiful 9 hole course located right outside of La Crescent.

Phone
507 895-2410
Website
www.cityoflacrescent-mn.gov
Facebook
Pin Oak Prairie SNA / Hiking Trail
Chatfield
Directions

Pin Oak Prairie Scientific and Natural Area – Captures a meandering stretch of the Root River’s Middle Branch with sandy soils and terraces setting the stage for native and threatened plant communities.

Website
www.dnr.state.mn.us
Preston Disc Golf Course

Preston Disc Golf is a beautiful, challenging disc golf course.  The front 9 has shorter holes with trees and hills to make the holes more challenging.   The back 9 has much longer holes with some of the holes having many trees to challenge the disc golfer.   On the back 9, most of the holes are relatively flat but 2 of them use a hill to add to the challenge of the holes.   PDG course was designed for the beginner to the expert and everyone in-between.

Website
http://www.prestonmnchamber.com/preston-disc-golf/
Preston Golf Course
Preston

Preston Golf Course is a Beautiful and Friendly 9 Hole Course on Rolling Hills in Southeastern Minnesota.

Phone
507-765-4485
Website
www.prestongolfcourse.com
Preston Public Pool
Preston

The Preston Swimming Pool is a seasonal pool located in Preston, Minnesota. Swimmers of all ages are welcome!

Phone
507-765-5408
Website
www.facebook.com/PrestonMNPool
Rivers Bend Golf
Preston
Phone
507-467-2512
Website
www.barnresort.com
Root River and Streams
Bluff Country

Water activities abound! Canoe, kayak, tube, or fish the river and the area's vast network of streams.

Root River Outfitters
101 Parkway Ave South,
Lanesboro
Directions

A leisurely float in the South branch of the Root River is a great way to escape the heat during the sweltering days of summer. We offer two trips of varying lengths that will keep you cool and wet.

Phone
507-467-3400
Website
www.rootriveroutfitters.net
Root River State Trail
Bluff Country

The Root River State Trail, a paved, 42-mile state trail, begins in Fountain and runs through the quaint and picturesque rural communities of Lanesboro, Whalan, Peterson, Rushford and Houston. Constructed on an abandoned railroad, the trail is generally level and wheelchair accessible.

Website
www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/root_river
Root River State Water Trail
Bluff Country

The Root River represents the timeless scenic and historic qualities characteristic of southeastern Minnesota. The river has gentle to moderate flow with a few riffles, although water level can vary substantially with rainfall. Many quaint towns along the river offer historical sights, services, and hospitality, making it ideal for a family day trip.

Website
www.dnr.state.mn.us/watertrails/rootriver
Rushford Aquatic Center
Rushford

Seasonal pool with zero-depth entry, children's pool, and larger pool with diving board. Daily fee or seasonal pass.

Phone
507-864-2983
Website
rushford.govoffice.com
Shari’s Sports Saloon Bowling
118 Main St S,
Chatfield

Burgers - Baskets - Beer - Bowling

The Barefoot Trail
Peterson

You will find this trail along the Root River Bike Trail as you enter from Whalen. Walk down the steps toward the ball field and enjoy the message on the sign explaining the health benefits when walking barefoot on the earth. decreasing stress and increasing overall wellness.
The trail surrounds the ball field to the south and east.

Website
www.petersonmn.com
The Peterson Historic Trail
Peterson

This trail through Peterson starts on the along the bike trail (#1) and as you follow the map you will find 9 more signs each explaining the significance of the location and the changes to the location over the last century.

Website
www.petersonmn.com
Valley High Golf Club
9203 T-243,
Houston
Directions

The Valley High Golf Club features an 18-hole public course and golf shop along with its full restaurant and bar. Find quality food, drinks, and fun in a clean and casual atmosphere.

Phone
507-894-4444
Website
www.valleyhighgolfclub.com
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The Root River Trail Towns

Root, River, Bike, State, Trail, Bluff, Country, Southeast, Minnesota, Fountain, Harmony, Houston, Lanesboro, Peterson, Preston, Rushford, Rushford Village, Whalan, Bike Groups, Walking, Hiking, Skiing, Cross Country, Fishing, Tubing, Canoeing, Kayaking, Tanking, Swimming, Sink Hole, Amish, Tours, Niagara Cave, International Owl Center, Scenic Byway, Highway 16, Hwy, Taste of the Trail, Houston Hoedown, Festival of Owls, Root River Triathlon, Camping, Hunting, Golfing, Snowshoeing, snowmobiling, nature Center, prairie plants,  Commonweal, Theatre, St. Mane, Antiques, Art, Art in the Park, Buffalo Bill Days, Bed and Breakfast, Rhubarb Festival, Wine Tasting, Breweries, Distillery, Norwegian, Culture, Railroads, Station Museum, Ole and Lena, Gammel Dag Fest, Trout Days, Trout Capital, National Trout Center, Driftless, Mystery Cave, Forestville State Park, Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery, Historic, Lefse, Stand Still Parade, Bluffs

Root, River, Bike, State, Trail, Bluff, Country, Southeast, Minnesota, Fountain, Harmony, Houston, Lanesboro, Peterson, Preston, Rushford, Rushford Village, Whalan, Bike Groups, Walking, Hiking, Skiing, Cross Country, Fishing, Tubing, Canoeing, Kayaking, Tanking, Swimming, Sink Hole, Amish, Tours, Niagara Cave, International Owl Center, Scenic Byway, Highway 16, Hwy, Taste of the Trail, Houston Hoedown, Festival of Owls, Root River Triathlon, Camping, Hunting, Golfing, Snowshoeing, snowmobiling, nature Center, prairie plants, Commonweal, Theatre, St. Mane, Antiques, Art, Art in the Park, Buffalo Bill Days, Bed and Breakfast, Rhubarb Festival, Wine Tasting, Breweries, Distillery, Norwegian, Culture, Railroads, Station Museum, Ole and Lena, Gammel Dag Fest, Trout Days, Trout Capital, National Trout Center, Driftless, Mystery Cave, Forestville State Park, Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery, Historic, Lefse, Stand Still Parade, Bluffs

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