State Trails
Douglas State Trail is a 12.5 paved rail/trail which “crosses outstanding rural scenery, traversing some of the richest agricultural land in Minnesota. The trail begins in northwestern Rochester, travels through the small town of Douglas … and terminates in Pine Island.” Map “trail segment between the towns of Douglas and Pine Island will be closed beginning October 22 to replace two trail bridges. There is no detour without riding on roads. The anticipated completion date is December 5.”
The Matthew Lourey State Trail is an 80 mile multi-use, natural and gravel surfaced trail that links St. Croix State Park with Chengwatana, St. Croix, and Nemadji state forests. It is mostly level, but none of it is paved.
Willard Munger State Trail is an 86 mile collection of mostly paved trails, many former railroad beds. Map There are two segments: Hinckley – Duluth segment and the Alex Laveau Memorial Trail.
Root River State Trail is a paved 42 mile rail/trail between the towns of Fountain and Rushford. The trail is ” generally level and wheelchair accessible. However, the eastern segment between Vinegar Ridge and Houston is more challenging than the western segment with a rather steep, half-mile segment that may not be suitable for all users.” Map The trail provides views of the limestone bluffs of the Root River Valley. Wildlife is abundant.