The best cycling routes in Goodhue County

Goodhue County offers over 15 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy and moderate trails to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

Goodhue County is part of Minnesota's picturesque Driftless Area, so expect a varied landscape. Routes often feature rolling hills, verdant valleys, and dense forests, especially along the Mississippi and Cannon Rivers. You'll encounter both paved trails and paths that wind through bluffs and river valleys.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families. The Lake Byllesby Dam – Lake Byllesby loop from Cannon Falls is an easy 7.7-mile (12.4 km) trail that takes about 46 minutes to complete, making it a great option for a shorter family outing. The Cannon Valley Trail, a 19.7-mile paved trail, is also very popular and offers well-equipped rest stops.

Many trailheads offer parking. A notable rest stop on the Cannon Valley Trail near Welch Village provides parking, water, free WiFi, and a bicycle repair station. For routes like the Anderson Memorial Rest Area – Belle Creek Rest Area loop from A. P. Anderson Park, you can typically find parking at the designated rest areas.

Goodhue County offers numerous scenic points. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and Lake Pepin, especially from prominent spots like Barn Bluff in Red Wing. The Lake Byllesby Dam is a point of interest, and you might spot bald eagles along the river. The Cannon Valley Trail itself is known for its beautiful river views and tree canopies.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Goodhue County are loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Anderson Memorial Rest Area – Flowers along the trail loop from Cannon Falls is a moderate 39.8-mile (64.0 km) circular path, and the Outdoor Exhibit – Spring Lake Park Reserve loop from Prescott is another popular moderate loop.

While enjoyable throughout the warmer months, September is particularly recommended for touring cycling in Goodhue County. The shady and vibrant tree canopies along trails like the Cannon Valley Trail offer stunning fall colors, enhancing the scenic beauty of your ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to river valleys, and the well-maintained trails that offer a blend of scenic river views and forested paths.

Yes, Goodhue County's rural nature and diverse ecosystems, including various forests and prairies, mean that wildlife sightings are common. Keep an eye out for bald eagles along the Mississippi River and other local fauna throughout the landscapes.

For those seeking longer rides, the Anderson Memorial Rest Area – Belle Creek Rest Area loop from A. P. Anderson Park is a substantial 37.7 miles (60.7 km) route. Additionally, the Goodhue Pioneer State Trail, while currently in segments, is planned to span 47 miles from Red Wing to Pine Island, offering potential for extended touring as it develops.

The Cannon Valley Trail is a prime example of a paved trail in Goodhue County, perfect for road bikes. It offers a smooth surface for 19.7 miles between Cannon Falls and Red Wing, winding along the Cannon River with scenic views.

Near Lake Byllesby, you can explore the Lake Byllesby Dam, a historic structure from 1910. The surrounding Lake Byllesby Park offers recreational activities, and the Lake Byllesby – Lake Byllesby Dam loop from Randolph Township provides an easy way to experience the area.