Oxbow Park Loop Trail

Curious about what Minnesota looked like in pre-settlement times?Then spend the day hiking through Nerstrand-Big Woods State Park, a botanical reserve for the temperate hardwood forest that once covered much of central Minnesota. Located 45 miles south of Minneapolis, the park offers the opportunity to hike along 11 miles of trails running through one of the last remnants of Big Woods vegetatio...

Whitewater State Park is at the cusp of bluff country, straddling the Whitewater River, a small tributary of the Mississippi. Spring and Autumn are the best times to visit. In Spring you'll hit wildflower season when the forest glades in the depths of the valley folds are literally carpeted with flowers. It's like wading through a sea of white and yellow and violet. Get a wildflower guide and h...

If you want a quiet, secluded paddle, this may not be the adventure for you. The Cannon River is a very popular destination in the summer months for groups of canoers, kayakers and tubers. Drinking on the river is not discouraged.Book a reservation with Welch Mill. They provide shuttle service, life jackets, canoes/kayaks and paddles (cash only). Pack a cooler of beverages and push off down the...

There are multiple entry points to the Cannon Valley Trail along the 19.7 miles of paved path that connect the towns of Cannon Falls and Red Wing. Because the trail requires a $4 daily pass, pick your entry point next to a Wheel Pass station. The most elaborate entry point is via the town of Welch, which has bathrooms, bike rental and picnic areas. Click here for a trail map.The trail sits on t...

Barn Bluff in Red Wing, Minn., is an enjoyable and easily-accessible hike. Even at a slow pace, it takes just 30-45 minutes to reach the peak.There is ample parking on 5th Street near the Barn Bluff sign. Take the stairs to the trail head. From there, you'll have a few trail options:1) South Trail: This is the easiest, most efficient way to reach the summit. The South Trail runs along the south...

Straight River Trail and Alexander Park Trail is a loop trail that takes you by a river located near Faribault, Minnesota.