Attractions and Places To See around Cannon Falls - Top 20

The Cannon Valley Trail is a highly recommended paved trail, popular for its shaded and scenic route. It connects Cannon Falls with Welch and Red Wing, offering diverse scenery along the Cannon River. Many cyclists enjoy starting in Welch and riding towards Cannon Falls for a gradual downhill return. For more cycling options, you can explore various routes in the area, including those for touring bicycles and road cycling.

You can experience the Cannon River's beauty at several spots. The Two Rivers Park in Cannon Falls is located at the confluence of the Cannon and Little Cannon Rivers, offering picnic spots and access via the Mill Towns State Trail. The Cannon River Falls in Riverside Park provides a peaceful setting to observe wildlife. Additionally, the Lake Byllesby Dam offers dramatic views of the water flowing over the dam and the river downstream.

Yes, there are several opportunities for hiking. The Cannon Valley Trail is excellent for walking and hiking, offering nearly 20 miles of paved path. Miesville Ravine Park Reserve also provides natural areas for hiking. For more detailed hiking routes, you can check out the cycling guides which often include sections suitable for walking.

The Cannon River is ideal for various water activities. You can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and rafting. Rental services are available, particularly at Welch Mill, which offers scenic trips down the river.

Cannon Falls boasts several historical sites. The Cannon Falls Historical Museum, housed in the 1888 Cannon Falls Fire Hall, showcases local history and artifacts. You can also visit the Colonel William Colvill Statue and Monument, honoring a local hero from the Battle of Gettysburg, located in the Cannon Falls Cemetery. The M80 - Train Wreck Site marks a local legend from 1912, with granite blocks still visible on the hillside.

Many attractions in Cannon Falls are family-friendly. Two Rivers Park in Cannon Falls offers picnic tables and space to play. Lake Byllesby Regional Park and Beach is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and picnicking. The Cannon Valley Trail is suitable for family bike rides and walks. Minnieska Park, with its pond, swans, and ducks, also provides a pleasant outing for families.

Yes, Cannon Falls has unique cultural and artistic points. The Historic Cannon Falls Mural Walk allows you to discover the town's history through beautifully painted murals. Music enthusiasts might be interested in the Pachyderm Recording Studio, where famous musicians like Nirvana recorded albums. The Vasa Museum, near the Vasa Lutheran Church, celebrates one of Minnesota's first Swedish-American settlements.

The best time for outdoor activities in Cannon Falls is generally during the spring, summer, and especially fall. September is often highlighted as the nicest time for cycling on trails like the Cannon Valley Trail due to the beautiful, shady canopy of trees. While summer is great for water activities, fall offers vibrant foliage and comfortable temperatures for hiking and biking.

Cannon Falls offers several local spots to relax and enjoy food and drink. You can visit the Cannon River Winery, nestled in the Sogn Valley, for local wines. Tilion Brewing Company is a craft brewery known for its artisanal beers. For coffee and ice cream, Cannon Belles provides a cozy atmosphere. There are also various local shops and boutiques for unique finds.

A lesser-known spot with a local legend is the M80 - Train Wreck Site, where rough-cut granite blocks from a 1912 train wreck are still visible on the hillside. For a peaceful natural experience, Minnieska Park offers stunning views and photographic opportunities with its pond, swans, and ducks, often less crowded than other areas.

Visitors particularly enjoy the scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. The Cannon Valley Trail is praised for its shaded and beautiful cycling experience, especially in the fall. The Lake Byllesby Dam offers dramatic views of the river, and Two Rivers Park is appreciated for its peaceful setting at the confluence of the rivers, perfect for picnics and trail access.

Yes, the area around Cannon Falls features several golf courses. Cannon Golf Club is known for its scenic layout, incorporating ponds, wetlands, and streams. Gopher Hills Golf Course also offers diverse nine-hole courses for golf enthusiasts.