Explore MN! Get ‘Lost’ Along The Cannon Valley Trail This Summer

If you are looking for a spring/summer getaway, you're just a few hours away from riding the Cannon Valley Trail. The trail, which was once a rail line, runs from Cannon Falls to Red Wing and offers fantastic views of the Cannon River, from under a canopy of trees.

The trail, which does require a paid pass for those who want to ride it, runs along the former Chicago Great Western Railroad line. According to the trail's website, the trail connects "the cities of Cannon Falls, Welch, and Red Wing in beautiful southeastern Minnesota. This paved bicycle and hiking trail is 19.7 miles of diverse and spectacular scenery.

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Paralleling the Cannon River, the Trail offers glimpses and panoramas of the valley and gradually descends 115 feet in elevation from Cannon Falls to Red Wing.  From overhanging cliffs to views of extensive wetland complexes, nature’s seasonal changes are vividly displayed."

People wishing to ride this spectacular trail, which is great to ride, walk, and run along any time of the year, will have to pay.

The trails website states, "The Trail is open year-round for bicycling, in-line skating, skateboarding, similar wheeled recreational devices, hiking, walking and cross country skiing.  Trail users age 18 or older must have a valid Wheel Pass when using the trail from April 1st – November 1st. Wheel Pass fees are $5/day or $25/season."

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You can find daily or yearly passes to use the trail here, the store also has other items to purchase that support the privately owned treasure.