Cannon Valley Trail

The Cannon Valley Trail is generally considered easy for road cyclists, built on a former rail line with a relatively flat and gentle grade. While the Komoot tour covers a longer distance of over 113 km and is rated 'difficult' due to its length, the core trail itself is approximately 20 miles (32 km) and features only gentle climbs. The surface is paved, though some sections may be patchier than others.

Yes, users aged 18 and older must purchase a Wheel Pass to use the trail. This can be a daily or seasonal pass and helps fund the trail's maintenance, as it is privately operated and not part of the Minnesota State Trail system.

The trail connects the towns of Cannon Falls, Welch, and Red Wing, offering various access points. You'll find parking available at trailheads in these towns. Welch, located approximately midway, is a convenient access point with amenities.

The trail is generally dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to maintain the trail's cleanliness for all users.

The trail offers beautiful scenery throughout the warmer months. Spring and fall are particularly popular due to comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage. The trail's diverse landscape, including forests and river bluffs, makes it picturesque in any season it's open for cycling.

You'll experience diverse scenery as the trail parallels the Cannon River, winding through lush hardwoods, steep slopes with exposed rock ridges, wetlands, prairies, and rolling farmland. Keep an eye out for wildlife and natural features like the Cannon River Turtle Preserve Scientific and Natural Area.

Yes, the trail offers numerous opportunities for scenic views of the valley and the Cannon River. Be sure to look for the Cannon Valley Trail scenic overlook. The trail itself is a designated National Recreation Trail and a prime example of a rail-to-trail conversion.

Yes, the trail connects with other routes. To the west, it links with the Mill Towns State Trail, and to the east, it connects with the Goodhue Pioneer Trail. The route also passes through sections of the Cannon Valley Trail, Mill Towns State Trail, and Mississippi River Trail (Minnesota).

Yes, Welch, which is approximately midway along the trail, provides a rest area equipped with bathrooms, water, and even bike repair stations. The towns at either end, Cannon Falls and Red Wing, also offer various amenities.

The trail gradually descends 115 feet in elevation from Cannon Falls to Red Wing. While the slope is gentle throughout, starting in Cannon Falls and cycling towards Red Wing will give you a slight downhill advantage for most of the ride.

Given its relatively flat and gentle grade, the trail is well-suited for families. The paved surface and scenic views make it an enjoyable experience for cyclists of varying ages and skill levels. Just remember the Wheel Pass requirement for adults.