The paved Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail is a beautiful 22-mile multiple use trail that connects the communities of Harmony and Preston with the Root River State Trail in southeastern Minnesota's Blufflands region. The trail is used mainly for hiking, biking and in-line skating.
- Landscape
- The trail rises and falls with the bluffs, winding through historic towns tucked into hillsides, past rolling farm fields, milling districts and relics of the railroad's heyday. Lush and verdant stretches offer views of the area's natural beauty.
The northern two-thirds of this trail is constructed on a former railroad and is generally level and accessible. This section of the trail follows or crosses Watson Creek, the South Branch of the Root River, and Camp Creek, passing through a variety of wooded areas and farmland. Three fishing platforms provide access to trout fishing in Camp Creek, just outside Preston.
The southern segment between County Road 16 and Harmony was not constructed on an abandoned railroad, and is comparatively more challenging. This portion of the trail climbs out of the river valley and travels along the ridge line between the valleys, including one rather strenuous incline that may not be suitable for all users.
Wildlife is abundant along the trail, and sightings of wild turkey, deer, hawks and turkey vultures are common. Rattlesnakes can occasionally be found on rock outcrops, along the river bottoms, or sunning themselves on the trail. They are a state threatened and protected species, and should be left alone.
- Virtual tours
- Panoramic tour | Snapshot tour | Video
- Trail uses
Accessible Outdoors (electric wheelchairs allowed)- Trail events
Events calendar
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- Permits
- No 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:
- Harmony: From Highway 52 take 4th Street NW approximately 1/2 mile west to the parking lot.
- Preston: From Highway 52 take Fillmore Street (also known as County Road 12) approximately 1/2 mile to the parking lot.
- Restrooms
- Restroom facilities are available along the trail at these points:
- At the trailhead in Preston
- At the Community Center in Harmony
- Winter
- Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking are permitted winter uses. Trails are not groomed or packed.
Snowmobiling is not allowed on the trail.
Hiking
Biking
In-line skating