Root River Trail – Lanesboro, Minnesota
Located in this small community is the Root River Trail which is a 60 mile paved bicycle trail and one of the earliest and most successful rails to trails projects anyplace. Riding this trail will take you through the rolling hills of southeastern Minnesota with views of pristine fields, picture book farms, verdant valleys and rocky bluffs. To spend a day or a couple of days on this trail will refresh your love for the outdoors and a great appreciation for southeastern Minnesota!
The ride will take you to the communities of Harmony, Preston, Fountain, Whalan, Peterson, Rushford and Houston.
Harmony is the southern terminus of the Harmony-Preston Valley Trail System. It sits just two miles north of the Minnesota-Iowa border and is the home to the Niagra Cave.
Preston is the county seat of Fillmore County. The Harmony-Preston Valley trail passes through Preston connecting Harmony to the south with the Root River Valley Trail to the north. There is a large park area where bikers can stop off for a bit, get something to eat in town or just relax for a bit.
Fountain is the western terminus fo the Root River Trail System. Situated on the top of a gentle rise it will give you a beautiful view of the surrounding area.
The community of Lanesboro is not only the starting place for the trail but also home to Buffalo Bill Cody, a resident in the mid 1800′s. Along with the trail you may enjoy a break while you do some canoeing, kayaking, fishing or hiking in this community area.
Whalan may have only 63 residents but it welcomes the bikers with some of the best homemade pie anyplace and if you are in the area on the third Saturday of May you will be able to see the famous “Stand Still Parade.”
Peterson is a village with great views for you to enjoy. The trail intersects the town’s main street which makes it a perfect place to grab something to eat at one of the restaurants.
Rushford has the trail running adjacent to the towns historical museum where you will be able to see a one room schoolhouse. Here, if you are Norwegian, you will find the wonderful Lefse made right here in the Lefse factory! Now, you don’t HAVE to be Norwegian to love Lefse but it is a Norwegian delicacy.
Houston is the eastern terminus of the Root River Trail System. The views between Rushford and Houston will take your breath away. The route is more hilly in places than the rest of the ride.
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Lanesboro, and the surrounding area, is one of our favorite vacation spots! We love all the bed and breakfast inns, the great restaurants and, of course, the biking trail. We intend to spend more time in Lanesboro in the coming year.