Great River Ridge State Trail

Great River Ridge State Trail

   

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Located in the beautiful southeastern Minnesota river valley, the Great River Ridge State Trail follows a former railroad grade with picturesque views of river bluffs. The trail is generally level and accessible, and is popular for bicycling, hiking, in-line skating, horseback riding and snowmobiling. When complete, the trail will be paved for 15 miles and will connect the cities of Plainview and Eyota. Currently, 13 miles of paved trail begins in Plainview, travels south through the town of Elgin, and ends at County Road 9.

Landscape

Quiet city streets allow users to explore the towns along the way. Plainview is known as the agricultural hub of the area, and has additional opportunity for recreation in its eight city parks. Carley State Park and Whitewater State Park are nearby. Future plans include extension to Carley State Park.

Trail uses

The trail offers a dual, natural surface treadway from Elgin to County Road 9 that is used for horseback riding in the summer, and snowmobiling in the winter.

hikingHiking

bikingBiking

in-line skatingIn-line skating

horsebackHorseback

snowmobilingSnowmobiling

Wheelchair accessAccessible Outdoors (electric wheelchairs allowed)

Trail events

Events calendar

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There are currently no event listings.

Permits
Parking

Do not leave valuables in your vehicle!

Parking is available at the following trail accesses:

  • Plainview: Parking lot is at trailhead on 3rd St. SW.
  • Elgin: Parking is available in town.
  • Eyota: Parking lot on County Road 9.
Restrooms

Restroom facilities may be available in each of the communities along the trail.

Winter

The trail offers a dual, natural surface treadway from Elgin to County Road 9 that is used for snowmobiling in the winter.

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