Root River State Trail Travel Guide — Minnesota

Our Root River State Trail guide covers practical planning for Root River State Trail Minnesota — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.

The North Star State is home to some truly exceptional outdoor experiences, and among its most cherished gems is the Root River State Trail Minnesota. This paved trail winds through the scenic Root River Valley, offering stunning views of towering bluffs, lush forests, and charming small towns. It's an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy biking, walking, and inline skating amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Our team at Roam States has explored this 42-mile asphalt pathway, and we’re here to provide you with an independent, specific guide to planning your adventure.

Why Visit Root River State Trail

The Root River State Trail offers a unique blend of natural splendor and small-town charm, making it a standout destination in southeastern Minnesota's Bluff Country. As you traverse the trail, you'll be treated to outstanding views of soaring limestone bluffs, thickly wooded hillsides, and the meandering Root River itself. It's a place where wildlife sightings are common, with wild turkeys, deer, hawks, and even bald eagles frequently spotted.

Beyond the picturesque landscapes, the trail connects a string of welcoming communities: Fountain, Lanesboro, Whalan, Peterson, Rushford, and Houston. These towns are not just convenient stopping points; they are integral to the trail experience, offering a variety of amenities including bed-and-breakfasts, campgrounds, restaurants, museums, outfitters, and unique shops. The trail itself is built on an old railroad right-of-way, which means it generally maintains a gentle grade, making it accessible and enjoyable for most users.

For those seeking a deeper dive into Minnesota's natural wonders, the Root River State Trail serves as an excellent base. While you're in the region, consider venturing further north to explore the pristine Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness or the expansive Voyageurs National Park for different, yet equally stunning, wilderness experiences.

Who It's Best For

The Root River State Trail truly caters to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts. Its generally flat, paved asphalt surface makes it perfect for families with children, casual cyclists, and those new to long-distance biking. The gentle grades, with only a few short, steeper sections (notably west of Houston), ensure an enjoyable ride for all ages and skill levels.

Walkers, runners, and inline skaters will also find the smooth surface appealing for their preferred activities. Birdwatchers and nature photographers will appreciate the abundant wildlife and varied ecosystems along the river valley. Even in winter, the trail transforms into a popular destination for cross-country skiing, with portions groomed for the activity.

The trail towns offer a welcoming environment for those who enjoy combining outdoor adventure with cultural exploration, local dining, and unique shopping experiences. Whether you're planning a solo escape, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, the Root River State Trail provides a memorable setting.

Getting There & Parking

When planning how to get to Root River State Trail, you'll find it conveniently accessible in southeastern Minnesota's Bluff Country. The trail stretches 42 miles between Fountain in the west and Houston in the east.

For those driving, parking is readily available at multiple trailheads along the route. Here’s a breakdown of key parking locations for the Root River State Trail:

• Fountain: A large parking lot is located at Trailside Park, near the city park/softball field. From Highway 52, take County Road 8 about one mile.
• Lanesboro: Parking is available in the lot next to the Bass Pond off County Road 8. Additional parking can be found along the streets and at the lot by the Community Center/Sylvan Park.
• Whalan: Street parking is generally available downtown near the Whalan City Park, and there's also a parking lot off Deep River Road.
• Peterson: Limited parking is available at Peterson RV Park. From Highway 16, turn into Peterson on Mill Street, go half a mile to Fillmore Street, and turn left to the city campground/softball field.
• Rushford: Park at the Rushford Historic Depot, located at 401 S. Elm St. From Highway 16, turn north on Elm Street and go one block.
• Houston: A large parking lot is available at the Houston Nature Center, 215 W Plum St. Turn west on Plum Street off Highway 76 and go one block.

The trail is free to use for biking, walking, running, and inline skating during the warmer months. However, cross-country skiers will need a Minnesota Ski Pass in winter to use groomed state trails.

As of July 2026, there are some important trail segment closures to be aware of. Due to recent rainfall and flooding, travel is not advised along the entire Root River State Trail. Additionally, a stretch of trail is closed for bridge rehabilitation, specifically from approximately 0.4 miles east of Rushford's trailhead to 5.9 miles west of Houston's trailhead. This construction is expected to be complete by November 13, 2026. Another closure, from approximately 8.8 miles east of Rushford's trailhead to about one mile west of Houston's trailhead, is expected to reopen by September 2026.

Top Things to Do

The Root River State Trail offers a wealth of experiences beyond just cycling. Here are some of the top things to do at Root River State Trail:

• Biking the Paved Trail: The primary draw is, of course, cycling. The 42-mile paved asphalt trail is perfect for riders of all levels. You can ride segments like the popular Lanesboro to Whalan (about 8 miles each way) for a shorter trip, or challenge yourself with the uphill grade from Lanesboro to Fountain for rewarding valley views. Bike rentals are available in towns like Lanesboro from local outfitters, some even offering secure bike storage for guests.
• Walking, Running, and Inline Skating: The smooth, generally level surface is also excellent for these activities, allowing you to soak in the scenery at your own pace.
• Exploring Charming Trail Towns: Each town along the Root River State Trail has its own character. Lanesboro, often considered the heart of the trail, boasts a vibrant arts scene, local dining, and unique shops. Fountain, the western terminus, is known as the "Sinkhole Capital of the USA" and hosts the Fillmore County History Center. Whalan is famous for its Aroma Pie Shop.
• Kayaking, Canoeing, and Tubing: The Root River itself is a State Water Trail, offering gentle to moderate flows ideal for paddling. Outfitters in towns like Lanesboro provide rentals for tubing down the river. Note that as of June 2026, caution is advised near mile 60 of the North Branch of the Root River at the former Brightsdale Dam near Lanesboro due to unexpected rapids, and users should portage around this area.
• Fishing: The Root River watershed is renowned for its excellent trout fishing, attracting anglers from far and wide.
• Wildlife Viewing and Photography: Keep an eye out for wild turkeys, deer, raccoons, hawks, and bald eagles. The diverse landscapes provide ample opportunities for nature photography.
• Visiting Museums and Historical Sites: The Fillmore County History Center in Fountain offers a deep dive into local heritage, featuring an extensive collection of antiques and agricultural equipment. Lanesboro also has the Lanesboro Historical Museum.
• Cross-Country Skiing in Winter: When snow blankets the region, parts of the Root River State Trail are groomed for cross-country skiing, offering a peaceful winter activity.
• Attending Local Events: The trail towns host various festivals and events throughout the year. For example, Lanesboro has events like the Rhubarb Festival in June and Art in the Park. Fountain hosts a Farmers Market from May to September.

These top things to do at Root River State Trail ensure there's something for every visitor, whether you're seeking active adventure or a relaxed exploration of the region's culture and natural beauty.

Best Time to Visit

The Root River State Trail is accessible year-round, but the "best" time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities and tolerance for crowds.

• Spring (April-May): As the snow melts and the bluffs turn green, spring offers pleasant temperatures for biking and hiking. Wildflowers begin to bloom, adding vibrant color to the landscape. It's generally less crowded than summer, but some services in smaller towns might still be on limited hours.
• Summer (June-August): This is peak season for the Root River State Trail, with warm weather perfect for all outdoor activities including biking, walking, kayaking, and tubing. All businesses in the trail towns will be fully operational, and there are many local events and festivals. However, expect more people on the trail, especially on weekends. Early mornings and weekdays are less crowded.
• Fall (September-October): Many consider fall the most picturesque time to visit, as the hardwood forests along the bluffs erupt in a spectacular display of autumn colors. The peak color typically occurs in early to mid-October. Temperatures are cooler and comfortable for active pursuits, and while popular, it can be less busy than mid-summer.
• Winter (November-March): For those who embrace the cold, winter offers a serene and quiet experience. Cross-country skiing is popular, with groomed sections of the trail available. Snowshoeing and winter hiking are also options. Keep in mind that some businesses in the trail towns may close or have reduced hours during the off-season.

Ultimately, the Root River State Trail offers beauty in every season, but for optimal biking and a full range of services, late spring through early fall is generally recommended.

Where to Stay Nearby

Finding the right Root River State Trail lodging is key to a comfortable and enjoyable trip. The towns along the trail offer a variety of options, from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to hotels and campgrounds. Lanesboro, often considered the hub of the trail, has a particularly wide selection.

Here are some of our top recommendations for Root River State Trail lodging:

• Lanesboro: This charming town offers numerous choices. The Stone Mill Hotel & Suites is a highly-rated 3-star property, known for its comfortable rooms and secure bike storage for guests. Green Gables Inn provides budget-friendly comfort with essential amenities. Other options include Hotel Lanesboro, a historic boutique hotel steps from the trail, and various bed-and-breakfasts like the Historic Scanlan House Inn and Scandinavian Inn Bed and Breakfast. For those preferring self-catering, vacation rentals like The Cozy Cottage or High Court Loft are available. Campgrounds such as the City of Lanesboro Riverview Campground and Sylvan Park Campground also offer overnight stays.
• Preston: Known as Minnesota's Trout Capital, Preston offers several lodging choices. The Country Trails Inn & Suites is a popular hotel with free breakfast, WiFi, and an indoor pool. The Trailhead Inn is conveniently located directly on the Root River Bike Trail and offers spacious, pet-friendly rooms with decks. For campers, Valley View Campground and the Fillmore County Fairgrounds Campground (first-come, first-served) are good options.
• Harmony: While slightly off the main Root River State Trail (connected via the Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail), Harmony provides additional lodging. The Country Lodge Inn offers clean and comfortable rooms. Harmony City Campground is available for camping, and vacation rentals like Asahi Loft of Harmony provide a home-away-from-home feel.

No matter where you choose for your Root River State Trail lodging, we recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred accommodation.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

To help you make the most of your visit, our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary for exploring the Root River State Trail and its charming towns.

Day 1: Lanesboro & Western Trail Exploration

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Arrive in Lanesboro & Bike to Fountain

  Start your adventure in Lanesboro, often called the "Bed & Breakfast Capital of Minnesota." Park your car (parking available near the Bass Pond off County Road 8) and rent bikes from a local outfitter if you haven't brought your own. Begin your ride west towards Fountain. This 10-mile segment offers scenic views and a gradual uphill climb into Fountain, making for an exhilarating downhill return. In Fountain, explore the Fillmore County History Center, open Tuesday-Saturday from 9 AM to 4 PM with no admission charge.

• Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): Dine in Fountain

  Enjoy a casual lunch in Fountain. You'll find options for homemade pizza and pie, or a bar and grill with American cuisine.

• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Return to Lanesboro & River Activities

  Bike back to Lanesboro, enjoying the downhill stretch from Fountain. Once back, consider a relaxing afternoon activity. Rent a kayak or tube and float down the Root River. Be aware of advisories near the former Brightsdale Dam where portaging is recommended due to rapids. Alternatively, explore Lanesboro's unique shops and art galleries downtown.

• Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Dinner & Theater in Lanesboro

  Lanesboro boasts a vibrant dining scene. Enjoy a farm-to-table meal at one of the local restaurants. After dinner, catch a performance at the acclaimed Commonweal Theatre Company, known for its high-quality productions in a small-town setting.

• Overnight: Stay in Lanesboro

  Check into one of Lanesboro's charming B&Bs, historic inns, or hotels.

Day 2: Eastern Trail Exploration & Preston

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Bike to Whalan & Peterson

  After breakfast, head east from Lanesboro on the Root River State Trail. The 4-mile ride to Whalan is particularly scenic, with river views and limestone bluffs. Stop in Whalan for a treat at the famous Aroma Pie Shop. Continue another 5 miles to Peterson, where you can visit the Peterson Station Museum.

• Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): Picnic or Local Fare

  Grab a picnic lunch to enjoy at a scenic spot along the trail, or find a local eatery in Peterson or Rushford.

• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Explore Preston & Harmony-Preston Valley Trail

  From Peterson, you can connect to the Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail at Isinours Junction. This 22-mile trail links Preston and Harmony, offering more paved riding through bluff country. Explore Preston, known as Minnesota's Trout Capital, and visit the historic 1902 Milwaukee Elevator. Note that a section of the Root River State Trail east of Rushford towards Houston is currently closed for bridge rehabilitation until November 2026, so plan your easternmost rides accordingly.

• Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Farewell Dinner

  Enjoy a final dinner in Preston or return to Lanesboro for another culinary experience before heading home.

Last updated: 2026-07-06 by the Roam States team.