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.
Currently, 13 miles of paved trail begin in Plainview, travel south through the town of Elgin, and end at County Road 9. 8 miles of natural surface trail parallel the paved trail between Elgin and County Road 9, which can be used by horseback riders and snowmobilers.
When complete, the trail will be paved for 15 miles and will connect the cities of Plainview and Eyota.
- 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.
Accessible Outdoors (electric wheelchairs allowed) - Trail events
Events calendar
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- Permits
You will need a Horse Pass if you will be horseback riding or carriage driving.
Snowmobiles must be registered or have a snowmobile state trail sticker.
No other fees or passes are required to use the trail.
- 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.
Carley State Park: (vehicle permit required)
- Winter
- The trail offers a dual, natural surface treadway from Elgin to County Road 9 that is used for snowmobiling in the winter.
Hiking
Biking
In-line skating
Horseback
Snowmobiling