The St. James Area Bike Trail is a paved, four-mile route that loops around St. James Lake. It connects to the WatLine Trail, which runs five miles south to Long Lake and opened in 2017. This distinguishes a loop around the lake from a southern connection with its own destination. The stated trail lengths can help you estimate the scope of your route planning.
Trails, Lake, and Parks
Tiell Park Campground is located on the St. James Area Bike Trail and within walking distance of St. James’s railroad-themed museums. If you’re considering this campground as a place to stay, it offers two specific connections: the paved trail right on the grounds and the museums within walking distance.
Memorial Park on St. James Lake has three fishing piers, a skate park, and two sand volleyball courts. The city’s outdoor pool adds to the recreational options with a large swimming pool, a diving board, a 150-foot water slide, and a wading pool for toddlers. The pool is seasonal; check current operating dates before your trip.
Kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards are available to rent for use on St. James Lake at the Outdoor City Pool. Check availability and seasonal pool hours in advance. This lets you plan your water activity around your travel dates without confusing it with a visit to the outdoor pool.
Railroad History and Art
The St. James Historical Railroad Museum includes a historic train depot, a caboose, a signal tower, and a sand tower. Its collection brings the city’s railroad heritage to life through a variety of structures and railroad features. The St. James chapter of the Watonwan County Historical Society collects and preserves the history of St. James. The Episcopal Church is also part of the local heritage: it is considered the oldest “original” church building within the city limits.
The Historic Princess Theater is located in downtown St. James, Minnesota. Artwalk St. James offers another way to experience public art: the art walk leads through the community and includes 20 public art locations. Together, these places offer different ways to explore the city’s history and culture, from its railroad heritage to public art.
Events and When to Visit
Railroad Days is an annual weeklong event celebrating the city’s railroad heritage. During the celebration, the Model Rail Club displays villages and trains in various scales, with hands-on activities for children. The program may change from year to year. The St. James Rail Run/Walk takes place annually in connection with Railroad Days; the St. James Community Golf Invitational is also associated with Railroad Days and takes place at St. James Golf Course.
Other annual occasions include a fireworks display at dusk over St. James Lake and the Watonwan County Fair at the fairgrounds in St. James. Event dates vary. If you’re traveling for a particular celebration, check the dates before booking. If you plan to visit the outdoor pool, also take its seasonal operating hours into account.
For the broader travel overview: Watonwan County.
