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Austin Minnesota, located in Mower county, is in Granite Country and has picturesque vistas surrounding the area. Austin is famously nicknamed “Spam Town USA” due to Hormel Meats headquarters located in Austin, along with the Spam Museum. If you have never thought about trying spam, maybe in exploring Austin it will spike your adventurous side.
Where to Bike in the Area
Being a bike-friendly community, by the League of American Cyclists, you will find riding the streets and roads here safe and relaxing. With miles of paved trails nestled in Granite Country, the ride is sure to be a calm one. For the mountain biker, no matter what level of expertise you have, many fun trails are offered while exploring Austin’s great landscape.
Spam Museum and Visit Center | 101 3rd Avenue Northeast, Austin, MN 55912 | 507-437-5100 Austin ArtWorks Center | 300 Main St. North, Austin, MN 55912 | 507-434-0934 Historic Paramount Theatre – great shows in a beautiful theatre registered as a historical place | 125 4th Ave. NE, Austin, MN 55912 | 507-434-0934
Piggy Blues Bar-B-Que | Menu | 323 N. Main St., Austin, MN 55912 | 507-434-8485 The Old Mill | Menu | 3504 11th Place NE, Austin, MN 55912 | 507-437-2076 Grinder’s Deli | 604 3rd Ave. NW, Austin, MN 55912 | 507-433-6808 Steve’s Pizza | Menu | 421 N Main St., Austin, MN 55912 | 507-437-3249
Where to Sleep When Visiting
After a long day of exploring Austin, find comfort in these great places.
Public Wi-Fi Spots in the Area
Along with most hotels, many coffee shops and restaurants have Wi-Fi available. Also, the public library is another good option. Austin public library is located at 323 4th Avenue Northeast, Austin, MN 55912 and you can find out more about the library by clicking here.
At A Glance: Exploring Root River Trail Towns – Fun and Food
Discover the dramatic river-carved bluff lands while biking in and around southeastern Minnesota’s Root River Trail Towns. Along the trail from Harmony to Preston, Fountain, Lanesboro, Whalan, Peterson, Rushford, and Houston you will find the perfect place for a biking vacation or long weekend adventure.
Riding out of Peterson, MN (one of the Root River Trail Towns) some young kids bike with grandma and grandpa on the Root River bike trail in Southeast Minnesota.
While exploring Bluff Country you can enjoy local artisans, historical architecture, and museums while sampling the locally sourced cuisine influenced by the Amish and Scandinavian cultures. In a nearly mosquito free environment, watch eagles soar above as you pedal the paved trail that parallels the lazy winding trout-filled Root River. Several bike friendly road routes will take you in and out of the bluffs, where you will see red foxes, wild turkeys, and deer that will watch you through the wooded landscape as you pass by.
Where to Bike While Visiting the Root River Trail Towns
Explore and enjoy the beauty of the bluff country landscape in and around the Root River Valley. Offering over 60 miles of paved trails that connect the Root River Trail Towns, it also offers many scenic road routes for touring the bluffs. For the mountain bikers, there are opportunities for varying terrain through state forests and on quite gravel roads in both Fillmore and Houston Counties.
Where to Play in the Root River Trail Towns When Not Biking
The trail and the towns along the trail offer many opportunities beyond biking. Check the descriptions below for some of the attractions for each town on the trail.
Where to Eat in the Root River Trail Towns
Each of the communities along the Root River Trails offer a variety of options to choose from to feed your appetite.
Where to Sleep When Visiting
HARMONY
45 Main Ave N, Harmony, MN 55939
29842 Co Rd 30, Harmony, MN 55939
31 Main Ave N, Harmony, MN 55939
There are a number of delightful discoveries waiting for you when visiting Harmony. At the south end of the Root River Trails system you will find a small town atmosphere that truly stands behind its name. Home of the Niagara Cave, it is a place to explore when not riding. Here, you will find plenty of dining and lodging opportunities. Visit Harmony’s Hobo Park. It is a sculptural project and isa series of hobo figuresat the trailhead in town titled “Life Along the Rails.” Harmony offers several interesting bar & grills, cafes, and delis ideally suited to a bicycler’s interest. For the most up to date listing visit here.
Here are some more things Harmony has to offer.
On the Crunchy Side – Everyone will find something to love here from their award winning chili to Lisa’s Pizza Bread. | 31 Main Ave N, Harmony, MN 55939 | 507-886-5560 Niagara Cave– Sculpted from an underground stream that leads to underground waterfall the sights of the cave are a hidden treasure. | 29842 County 30, Harmony, MN 55939 | 507-886-6606 Amish Tours of Harmony – A wonderful way to learn more about Amish culture and history while being able to spend time in some their shops. | 94 2nd Street, Harmony, MN 55939 | 507-886-2303 New Generations of Harmony Antique Mall – Explore 10,000 square feet of antiques, collectables, and Amish goods. | 50 Industrial Blvd NE, Harmony MN 55939 | 507-886-6660
Riding your bicycling to one of the next Root River Trail Towns, Preston is the next Trail Town, 12.3 miles of gently rolling terrain.
PRESTON
24461 Heron Rd, Preston, MN 55965
110 St Anthony St S, Preston, MN 55965
21071 Co Hwy 118, Preston, MN 55965
The Fillmore county seat this community as vibrant and at the heart of bluff country. Many visit Preston to view the beautiful Root River Valley and access the miles of paved bike trails and quite country roads in and around the area. Also known as “Minnesota’s Trout Capital” and Home of the National Trout Center, Preston is a welcoming family-fun destination offering visitors many choices for both dining and lodging. Preston offers a deli at the local grocery store specially suited for a picnic and there are several cafés ideally suited to a bicycler’s interest. Preston has several B & B’s along with charming and interesting motels. The Preston Public Library is located at 101 Saint Paul St. S.W., Preston, MN 55965 and can be called at 507-765-4511. For great pictures, check out this hashtag: #PrestonMN.
Here are few options for the Preston area. Mystery Cave State Park – Explore the caves with a variety of tour options including a flashlight tour. | 21071 County Road 118, Preston, MN 55965 | Cave: 507-937-3251 | Main Park: 507-352-5111 The Sweet Stop & Sandwich Stop – Tasty sandwiches and breakfast that is served all day. | 110 St. Anthony St. South, Preston, MN 55965 | 507-765-9956 Old Barn Resort – Golf Course with outfitter service to tube on the river. | 24461 Heron Road, Preston, MN 55965-9036 | 507-67-2512
Riding your bicycling to one of the next Root River Trail Towns, here it is 12 miles to Fountain, and 10.2 miles to Lanesboro.
FOUNTAIN
22 US-52, Fountain, MN 55935
98 Main St, Fountain, MN 55935
202 County Rd 8 Fountain MN 55935
The trailhead in Fountain is located at the top of the bluff, just off Highway 52. At the trail head, you will find picnic shelters, playground and a volleyball court, and places to eat in the downtown area. Fountain has a grocery store with great snacks and deli items for a picnic and a couple restaurants ideally suited to a bicycler’s taste. For the most up to date listing check here There is also a hardware store in the downtown area for minor repairs, sunscreen, etc.
Here are a few of the features of Fountain. Filmore County Historical Center – A museum and genealogy library to help you learn more about the beautiful area. | 202 County Rd. 8, Fountain MN 55935 | 507-268-4449 Bent Wrench Bar & Grill – A variety of your favorites including onion rings and deep fried pickles, also a fun take on a burger with bacon. | 98 Main St., Fountain, MN 55935 | 507-268-4922 Los Gables – A menu full of all your favorite Mexican dishes and a full service bar. | 122 US-52, Fountain, MN 55935 | 507-268-1020
Village Square Restaurant – Traditional family style meals, pizza, and ice cream. | 99 Main Street, Fountain, MN 55935 | 507-268-4406
Riding your bicycling to one of the next Root River Trail Towns, here it is 11.2 miles to Lanesboro, the next Trail Town.
LANESBORO
111 Coffee St E, Lanesboro, MN 55949
Parkway Ave, Lanesboro, MN 55949
208 Parkway Ave N, Lanesboro, MN 55949
Nestled in a deep valley of the Root River, Lanesboro offers visitors here many invigorating outdoor activities, rich artistic experiences, unique shopping, a local winery, fine dining, and lodging to fit every taste and budget. Here at the center of the paved Root River Trail system you will find a downtown area revitalized with many shops, restaurants, and the Common Wealth Theatre for your visit. Lanesboro offers several interesting and charming coffee shops and cafés ideally suited to a bicycler’s interest. Lanesboro has several B & B’s and camping options along with a couple charming hotels. The Lanesboro Public Library is located at 202 Parkway Ave. S., Lanesboro, MN 55949 and can be contacted by 507-467-2649.
Here are a few of your options in Lanesboro. Commonweal Theatre Company –A rotation of all different genres of plays and musicals. | 208 Parkway Avenue North, Lanesboro, MN 55949 | 507-467-2525 Old Village Hall – Your favorite American cuisine in the town’s original village and fire hall. | 111 Coffee St., Lanesboro, MN 55949 | 507-467-2962 Spud Boy Lunch – Classic diner feel and cuisine. | 105 Parkway Ave., N, Lanesboro, MN 55949
Riding your bicycling to one of the next Root River Trail Towns, here it is 4.6 miles to Whalan, the next Trail Town.
WHALAN
618 Main St, Whalan, MN 55949
439 Half St, Lanesboro, MN 55949
A charming 19th century Irish village in a valley surrounded by limestone bluffs and lush green hills, the village here was incorporated in 1876 with land donated by John Whalan. Soon after a railroad was built with a train depot here along the rail line, now the Root River Trail, it moved people, cattle, crops, lumber, and general supplies from city to city along the tracks, then on to La Crosse. Today, you will find a great place to stay and a pie shop for desert. Both are along the trail in Whalan.
Here are a few of Whalan’s attractions: Gator Greens Mini Golf – Open each weekend and weekdays by appointment. | 439 Half Street, Whalan, MN 55949 and 920 Bench Street, Whalan, MN 55949 | 507-251-5101 Aroma Pie Shop – The perfect place for a sandwich and slice of pie. | 618 Main St., Whalan, MN 55949 | 507-467-2623
Riding your bicycling to one of the next Root River Trail Towns, here it is 8.9 miles to Peterson, the next Trail Town.
PETERSON
17 Mill St, Peterson, MN 55962
Surrounded by bluffs and farmland, you will find the friendly Norwegian community of Peterson. As the Root River Trail crosses the city’s main street you will see all kinds of options for a visit. First, you will notice the local café, known for their delicious breakfast, lunch, and afternoon desserts. Further down the street, at the ice cream shop, you can rent a kayak or tube to cool off on those hot summer days. Or, take a break at the Peterson Station Museum/Visitor Center where one of the exhibits, a vintage John Deere Bicycle, is showcased along with the towns lengthy history starting in 1855. Peterson offers a great ice cream shop and a charming café ideally suited to a bicyclist’s taste. Here you will find several B & B’s along with full service city campground.
Here are some of the attractions in Peterson. Burdey’s Café – Family-owned restaurant with fresh home made meals and pie. | 417 Mill St., Peterson, MN 55962 | 507-875-2424 Geneva’s Hideaway – The perfect place to get your canoe and tube rentals and grab some delicious ice cream. | 318 Mill St., Peterson, MN 55962 | 507-875-7733 Peterson Station Museum/Visitor Center – Nearly 100 years after the Peterson Station opened to serve Southern Minnesota Railroad customers, visitors today can explore the area’s past through historical memorabilia, photographs, and other artifacts. | 228 Mill Street, Peterson, MN 55962 | 507-875-2222
Riding your bicycling to one of the next Root River Trail Towns, here it is 4.8 miles to Rushford, the next Trail Town.
RUSHFORD
When you arrive in Rushford on the Root River State Trail the first landmark you’ll encounter is the original 1867 Railroad Depot. This Historic Depot and Visitor’s Center, on the National Register, is a great place to stop and step back into the wonderful history of early Rushford. Then, cruise around the downtown area and enjoy the great places to eat while staying or visiting here. From the deli at the local grocery store, to a picnic, to several restaurants, Rushford offers several interesting and charming places to eat. Rushford has a couple B & B’s, a new motel, and the City’s campgrounds. The Rushford Public Library is located at 101 North Mill St., in Rushford, Minnesota. They can be contacted at 507-864-7600.
Here are a few more of Rushford’s options. Shawnee’s Bar & Grill –A friendly place with variety of menu options for everyone’s taste. | 220 S. Mill St., Rushford, MN 55971 | 507-864-2073 The Creamery – From hand-tossed pizza to fresh made waffle cones for your ice cream and everything in between. | 407 S. Mill St., Rushford, MN 55971 | 507-864-7214 Norseland Lefse – For your favorite traditional Scandinavian cuisine including Lefse and Lutefisk. | 210 West Jessie St., PO Box 692, Rushford, MN 55971 | 507-864-2323
Riding your bicycling to one of the next Root River Trail Towns, here it is 12.6 miles to Houston, the next Trail Town.
HOUSTON
101 Cedar Street Houston, MN 55943
215 W Plum St, Houston, MN 55943
Houston, MN 55943
Boastings one of the best trailheads in the state of Minnesota. Here you will find the Houston Nature Center, a band-shell, natural playground, recycled bike art, and walk-in campsites. At the eastern end of the area’s Root River Trail you can take a walk or bike ride into the downtown area to visit the shops and popular restaurants in Houston. For the most up to date listing of restaurants check here. Houston has several lodging opportunities and a campground. Along with most hotels, coffee shops, and restaurants having Wi-Fi availability, the public library is another good option. The Houston Public Library is located at 202 East Cedar Houston, MN 55943 and can be reached by telephone at 507-896-7323.
Here are just a few options for you to choose from. International Owl Center – Come see and learn more about the owls in the area. | 126 E. Cedar St., Houston, MN 55943 | 507-896-6957 Houston Nature Center – Enjoy the beauty of Houston at the trail head and take a picture by the mascot Alice the Owl. | 215 W. Plum St., Houston, MN 55943 | 507-896-4668 Barista’s Coffee House – Serving espresso drinks, gourmet coffee, baked goods, real fruit smoothies, sandwiches, wraps, salads and ice cream at the trails eastern end. | 110 N. Grant St., Houston, MN 55943 | 507-896-5282
Riding your bicycling West on the Root River Trail from here, it is 12.6 miles to Rushford, 31.1 miles to Lanesboro and 63.6 miles to Harmony.
Enjoy the scenic roads and trails meandering in and out of the Mississippi River when exploring Winona. It is a great experience. Adventure-seekers and novices alike will find this historic river town in Winona a great place for an outdoor adventure. When not bicycling or hiking, the mighty Mississippi River beckons paddlers, boaters, and swimmers with its wide channels, intimate backwaters, and sunny beaches. Overall, it is a great place to cool off. As the sun drops over Sugar Loaf Bluff, savor a great meal and raise your glass to all Winona offers.
Biking around Lake Winona is a great way to enjoy the many cycling opportunities in Southeast Minnesota’s “Driftless Area”.
Where to bike when exploring Winona
The river valleys offer flat terrain, gently rolling hills, and spectacular views of rivers and bluffs. Steep bluffs challenge those looking for a more vigorous adventure. Over a hundred miles of trails wind along the lakes, streams, woods, and fields. In town, enjoy the family-friendly paved trail running along Lake Winona. For the touring cyclist, ride along the Mississippi River Trail and enjoy low-traffic route loops with mileage options to meet your desires. Many off-road trails have vista views and technical challenges for those looking for an adrenaline rush.
Winona offers many activities, from countless picturesque views to historic museums and everything in between. Winona Tour Boat – Explore the area’s beauty while learning about the area and seeing the local wildlife | 1 Walnut Street, Winona, MN 55987 | 507-458-2842 Minnesota Marine Art Museumhttps://www.mmam.org/ – Home to major artists such as Monet, Homer, Picasso, and so many more | 800 Riverview Dr., Winona, MN 55987 | 507-474-6626 Watkins Museum & Shop – The free museum allows you to look into the beginnings of the beloved J.R. Watkins products and has a shop where you can choose from over 300 of those products | 150 Liberty Street, Winona, MN 55987 | 507-457-6095 Winona National Bank – More than your ordinary bank, this is a historical destination where you can see the trophies of the original owners, the original vault, and the Tiffany stained-glass windows | West Location: 1491 West Broadway | Downtown Location: 204 Main Street | East Location: 840 Mankato Ave. | 507-454-8800
From several bakeries offering the nationally-acclaimed maple-long johns to the popular Boathouse, this area offers several interesting and charming cafes, coffee shops, and ice cream shops ideally suited to a cyclist’s taste. For the most up-to-date listing, click here.
Here are just a few of the places to eat in Winona: Lakeview Drive Inn – True to its name, this family-owned restaurant gives you a fantastic view of the lake while serving fresh, delicious food and homemade Root Beer | Menu | 610 East Sarnia St., Winona, MN 55987 | 507-454-3723 Jefferson’s Pub & Grill – All your favorite classics in this renovated railway Freight House | Menu | 58 Center St., Winona, MN 55987 | 507-452-2718 Winona Bread & Bagel – The perfect place to grab any of your favorite baked goods from cupcakes and cookies to hand-shaped loaves of bread | 351 W. 2nd St., Winona, MN 55987 | 507-454-6787 Ed’s No Name Bar – Ranked as the best place for live music from Southern Minnesota Scene Magazine, Ed’s is great to grab your favorite drink or try a local brew and relax while listening to live music or playing some yard games | 252 E. Third Street, Winona, MN 55987 | 507-450-1788
Where to stay when visiting Winona
From a restored river town mansion to the functionality of a standard hotel room or campground, Winona has an array of lodging for every traveler’s taste and budget.
Along with most hotels, coffee shops, and restaurants have Wi-Fi available. The public library is also a good option. The Winona Public Library is located at 151 W. 5th St. in Winona and can be contacted at 507-452-4582.
See theWinona Tourism Bureau for more detailed information.
