Root River Trail Towns

Visit the Root River Trail System and Towns

Peterson

Peterson

A popular spot for users of the Root River Trail System.

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

Gustav, one of Peterson’s twin gnomes, welcomes you along the Root River Bike Trail that intersects the city’s main street making it easy to find our small but interesting business district. Delicious breakfasts. lunches, and pie are available from Burdey’s Cafe. Rest at our Peterson Station Museum/Visitor Center. Enjoy a late afternoon or evening at the Peterson American Legion. And watch for the new business opening soon next to the Peterson Post Office.

The Root River also intersects the town’s main street, and follows the Root River Bike Trail from Peterson more than half way to Rushford. Watch for trout and eagles, wildflowers, and wild life while walking or biking beside the normally peaceful river! More than 30 species of birds are commonly seen in this region.

Our rural community, surrounded by bluffs and farmland, boasts an inn and a hotel with suites, and a unique historic mobile gas station now a lovely VRBO. The city also offers a small, quiet campground in park adjacent to the trail. Wake and relax to the sounds of wildlife. Because of the small size of Peterson, all lodging is near the trail and river!

Three walking trails might be of interest to visitors and residents.

  • One is the climb up the bluff on the Peterson Overlook Trail and begins with a bit of a challenge. Bring your camera for this special climb.
  • The second is the Historic Walking Trail introducing you to ten important landmarks from Peterson’s earliest days.
  • Third, the new Barefoot Trail stretches around the ball field – just off the bike trail. It is meant for decreasing stress and increasing overall wellness.

For those interested in railroads or Norwegian culture, the Peterson Station Museum is open most days during the summer. The museum doubles as a visitor center. For those interested in railroad history, the museum includes the original train depot with many of the depot’s original furnishings!

Take your picture with Ole and Lena in the museum annex where you will also find much about early Norwegian settlers in our valley. John Erickson, the museum curator, has put together an intriguing display of Peterson’s lengthy history starting in 1855. No time during your visit in Peterson? You may book a private tour by contacting John at johdar@acegroup.cc or ask for help researching your Norwegian ancestry!

Stop and rest on one of several benches provided for your comfort in our parks, business district, and along the Root River Trail. Take part in one of several music events held at our restored bandstand. Visit during one of our town’s celebrations: Gammel Dag Fest and Christmas in Peterson. Learn more about us through our website at www.petersonmn.com.