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Root River State Bike Trail

Southeastern Minnesota's Highly Rated Scenic Hardcover Trail

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Root River State Bike Trail in southeastern Minnesota. This scenic trail winds through lush landscapes, charming towns, and alongside the tranquil Root River, making it perfect for cyclists of all levels. Experience the rich history and vibrant wildlife as you explore this picturesque route, ideal for a day of adventure or a leisurely ride. Whether you're a local or just visiting, the Root River State Bike Trail offers an unforgettable outdoor experience.

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A Special Trail In A Special Place

Here are some featured stops along Southeastern Minnesota's Root River State Bike Trail:

 

1) Fountain: Grab lunch here and checkout the Fillmore Country Historical Center.

2) Lanesboro: This charming small town offers delightful views, quaint places to stay, museums, eateries, several entertainment venues, and spectacular views of the Root River.

3) Whalan: A quaint village with history, featuring the quaint Whalan Depot store and Aroma Pie Shoppe  

4) Preston: Home to the Fillmore County Seat with several lunch options.

5) Peterson: A short stop along the way features snacks and lunch on weekends

6) Harmony: Explore lots of interesting shops, visit Niagara Cave, and enjoy local dining options.

7) Rushford: A short stop here features snacks and lunch options like ice cream and pizza.

8) Houston: Learn about owls at the International Owl Center. All of these stops feature a blend of natural beauty and small-town charm along the trail.

Breaker's restaurant is a quaint stop in Harmony Minnesota

Harmony:

Harmony, Minnesota, is a charming small town known for its friendly Amish community, shopping attractions, quaint downtown area with several restaurant options, including Breakers.

Sweet Sandwich Shoppe in Preston Minnesota is a nice lunch spot

Preston:

Straight across from the Fillmore County seat and the local grocery on the square, Sweet & Sandwich Stop Shoppe is a popular place for fresh sandwiches and deserts.

Village Square restaurant in Fountain Minnesota offers pizza, sandwiches, ice cream, and pie

Fountain:

In Fountain, the Village Square is a popular stop for pizza, ice cream, and pie.

Downtown Lanesboro is a hub of activity along the Root River State Bike Trail

Lanesboro:

Lots to do and see in Lanesboro, a popular place for bikers planning to bike and enjoy the area for a few days. Live theater, a vibrant arts community, canoeing, kayaking, dining, beer tasting, and shopping are favorite activities when biking is done for the day.

Whalan Depot in Whalan

Whalan:

A short but sweet stop on the trail near Lanesboro is Whalan. Be sure to stop for pie at Aroma Pie Shoppe, then check out the Whalen depot for more treats and gifts. Earnie's 1917 gas and service station is worth a look also.

The Creamery restaurant in Rushford, Minnesota

Rushford:

It's hard to pass up great pizza and ice cream. The Creamery in Rushford is a well-established place to refuel after a hard ride.

The Owl Center in Houston, Minnesota

Houston:

The International Owl Center is headquartered in Houston, Minnesota. Be sure to stop by and check it out. It is located on the main drag.

Trailheads & Sections

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