The Cannon Valley Trail connects Cannon Falls, Welch and Red Wing along 19.7 miles of paved trail. It is designed for biking, hiking and inline skating, and runs parallel to the Cannon River. Along the way, there are views of the valley and extensive wetlands. From Cannon Falls to Red Wing, the trail drops a total of 115 feet—river, valley and elevation profile all shape the landscape experience here.

The trail connections are also clearly defined: at its western end, it connects to the Mill Towns State Trail, and at its eastern end, to the Goodhue Pioneer Trail. For a specific outing, check current trail information, as the trail infrastructure may change.

Trail profiles and activities differ

The length given for the Goodhue Pioneer State Trail refers to a different section: four miles of developed, paved trail describe its northern section between Red Wing and the Hay Creek Unit of Richard J. Dorer State Forest. Alongside it runs an unpaved trail for horseback riding and horse-drawn carriages. It connects with 15 miles of riding trails in the Hay Creek Day-Use Area. This means two different surfaces and uses are available; the four miles refer to the described northern section, not the length of the Cannon Valley Trail.

Another point of reference for activities is Cascade Canoe & Kayak Access, an access point in the northwestern part of Goodhue County.

River Views, Wetlands and Prairie Landscape

The landscape also takes different forms away from the river route. The Billings-Tomfohr Conservation Area offers hiking trails and natural prairie landscape. The 93-acre area rises 200 feet above the valley floor. Its prairie landscape and elevation change offer a different perspective from the valley and wetland views along the Cannon Valley Trail.

He Mni Can-Barn Bluff is significant for its geology and its connection to prehistoric and Indigenous populations. At the park entrance and at the trailhead at the foot of the bluff, memorials provide information for visitors. This connects on-site orientation with a history encompassing both the landscape and its human significance.

Bridges, Pottery and County History

The Zumbrota Covered Bridge is the only surviving example of a covered wooden truss bridge in Minnesota. Today, it serves as a pedestrian bridge over the Zumbro River and stands 1,000 feet west of its original location. Both its current use and its relocation are part of its history: it is not only a historic structure, but also a bridge used by pedestrians to cross the river.

The Pottery Museum of Red Wing displays common and rare wares from Red Wing potteries. These include stoneware, art pottery and dinnerware. Group tours typically last 45 minutes to an hour. If you plan to take a tour, check current options in advance.

The permanent exhibits at the Goodhue County History Center tell the story of Goodhue County through its land and residents. The Goodhue County Fair offers another way to explore county history: this tradition, dating back to 1859, welcomes visitors each year for five days of entertainment, education and celebrations. Check the dates of each year’s event when planning a visit.

Discover more destinations: Red Wing, Zumbrota, Ramsey, Blue Earth County, Mille Lacs, Hennepin, Cass County, Becker County.

For the overview of the wider region: Minnesota.