The best running trails in Rice County

There are over 40 running routes available in Rice County, offering a wide range of options for different preferences and fitness levels. These include 4 easy routes, 32 moderate routes, and 4 difficult routes.

Rice County offers a diverse running landscape. You can expect varied topography including hummocky hills, picturesque river valleys along the Cannon and Straight Rivers, and more level plains. The eastern part of the county features moraine ridges, while the western part has numerous shallow lakes and wetlands, providing a mix of natural settings for your runs.

Yes, several routes offer access to natural attractions. For instance, you might encounter Hidden Falls or the significant Cannon River Trout Lily Scientific and Natural Area, known for its endangered Minnesota dwarf trout lily. The River Bend Nature Center Falls are also a notable sight.

Absolutely. Rice County has 4 easy running routes perfect for families or those new to running. The Straight River Bike Trail, a paved path, is an excellent option for exploring areas of Faribault and is suitable for all ages. For a moderate, family-friendly loop, consider the Carleton Arboretum Trail loop from Northfield, which is 3.2 miles (5.1 km) long.

While specific dog-friendly regulations can vary by park, many natural areas in Rice County welcome dogs on leash. Trails within areas like Nerstrand Big Woods State Park and the Cannon River Wilderness Area are generally suitable for running with your canine companion, offering wooded and natural settings.

Many of the popular running routes in Rice County are loops. For a moderate challenge, try the Upper Lyman Lake loop from Northfield, which is 4.4 miles (7.0 km). Another option is the Duckweed Pond loop from Northfield, a moderate 7.1-mile (11.4 km) route.

For longer runs, Rice County offers several options. The Tanzenwald Brewing Company – L&M Bar and Grill loop from Northfield is a challenging 9.6-mile (15.4 km) route. Another difficult option is the L&M Bar and Grill – CROCT Mountain Bike Skill Park loop from Dundas, spanning 10.8 miles (17.5 km).

Yes, you can find waterfalls along some routes or nearby. Hidden Falls is a notable waterfall in the area. Additionally, Caron Park features the natural limestone Wellstone Falls, and Falls Creek Park has a spring-fed creek with bluffs, offering scenic water features.

The running routes in Rice County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars. Runners often praise the varied terrain, from river valleys to wooded trails, and the diverse scenery that makes each run unique.

Several parks and natural areas are excellent for running. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park offers extensive wooded trails. The River Bend Nature Center has multiple trails traversing prairie, woodland, and wetland habitats. Caron Park and Falls Creek Park also provide diverse natural settings for runners.

Many trails in Rice County offer accessible entry points. For instance, the Straight River Bike Trail has multiple entry points within cities like Faribault. For specific parking information for parks like Caron Park or Falls Creek Park, you can often find details on the respective park websites. For general information on parks and trails, you can consult the Rice County Parks & Trails document.

Beyond the well-known parks, the Cannon River Wilderness Area offers five miles of hiking and horseback trails, including a wood-beam footbridge across the Cannon River, providing a more rugged experience. The western part of Rice County, with its numerous shallow lakes and swamps, also presents unique natural settings for exploration.

Rice County offers great running opportunities throughout the year. Spring brings the blooming of the Minnesota dwarf trout lily in specific areas. Summer is ideal for enjoying the lush greenery, while fall provides stunning foliage. Even winter can be beautiful for running, though some trails may require appropriate gear for snow or ice.