Root River State Trail – Preston Overlook loop from Lanesboro
Root River State Trail – Preston Overlook loop from Lanesboro
4.9
(3577)
10,706
riders
Root River State Trail – Preston Overlook loop from Lanesboro
03:19
63.3km
280m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Tips
The surface for a segment of your route may not be suitable
Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.
After 15.5 km for 88 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
338 m
Root River State Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
8.74 km
Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
16.4 km
Preston Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
18.1 km
Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail-Preston Trailhead (New)
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
30.2 km
Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
63.3 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
59.4 km
1.60 km
1.26 km
976 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
60.3 km
2.88 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Thursday 18 June
22°C
13°C
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a rewarding road cycling experience through Minnesota's scenic Bluff Country, the Root River State Trail – Preston Overlook loop from Lanesboro is a fantastic choice. This moderate 39.3-mile (63.3 km) route, with 928 feet (283 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 19 minutes to complete. It's perfect for cyclists seeking a blend of natural beauty, charming small towns, and a good workout without extreme technical challenges.
What to expect on Root River State Trail – Preston Overlook loop from Lanesboro
This route takes you along the historic Root River State Trail, largely following an abandoned railroad grade, which means a generally gentle ride. However, don't let that fool you; the "Preston Overlook loop from Lanesboro" includes sections that offer more varied terrain, especially as you approach Preston and potentially connect with the Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail. You'll cycle through picturesque river bottoms, past rolling farmlands, and beneath towering limestone bluffs. The highlight is undoubtedly the Preston Overlook, a historic viewpoint offering expansive, panoramic views of the Root River Valley from 90 feet above the water. While the main trail is mostly well-paved, be aware that some segments between Lanesboro and Preston can be bumpier, with occasional tree roots and ruts, so a road bike with good tires is recommended. Expect a steady, mild uphill grade for about 5 miles when heading west from Lanesboro towards Fountain, which becomes a fun, fast downhill on your return.
Planning your visit
Lanesboro, often called a trail capital, is an excellent starting point, offering amenities like bike outfitters, restaurants, and shops. Parking is generally available in town. The trail is often shaded, making it enjoyable even on warmer days, but always carry enough water. Wildlife sightings, including deer, wild turkeys, and bald eagles, are common, adding to the experience. The best time to visit is typically spring through fall, avoiding winter conditions. No specific permits are mentioned for cycling the trail itself.
Trail details
- Distance: 39.3 miles (63.3 km)
- Elevation gain: 928 feet (283 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 19 minutes
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