Mississippi River Trail: Red Wing Loop

This route is designed for road cycling and typically takes around 6 hours and 12 minutes to complete. However, your actual time may vary depending on your pace, stops for sightseeing, and fitness level.

The route features beautiful rolling terrain, especially as it follows scenic county roads. While some sections of the broader Mississippi River Trail in Minnesota are relatively flat, the Red Wing area is known for its dramatic bluffs, which provide significant elevation changes and stunning river vistas. Expect some climbs that require good fitness.

While there isn't one single designated start point for this loop, a good option for parking is near Bay Point Park in Red Wing. This park offers riverfront access and is a convenient starting point for exploring the area's cycling routes.

The route offers diverse scenery, including extensive views of the Mississippi River and surrounding bluffs. You'll pass through charming areas like the historic town of Red Wing. Notable highlights along or near the route include Spring Lake Park Reserve, Spring Lake Overlook, and Bay Point Park. Keep an eye out for panoramic views from bluffs like He Mni Can-Barn Bluff.

This route is rated as difficult due to its distance (approximately 144 km or 89.5 miles) and significant elevation gain (over 930 meters). The rolling terrain and bluffs in the Red Wing area mean there are challenging climbs. It requires a good level of fitness and is not typically recommended for beginners.

The best time to cycle this route is generally from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is usually pleasant, and the scenery is vibrant. Be aware of potential heat and humidity in mid-summer, and check local weather forecasts before you go.

Yes, this route utilizes segments of several other trails. You'll find yourself on sections of the Mississippi River Trail (Minnesota), United States Bicycle Route 45, United States Bicycle Route 20 (Minnesota), and the Mississippi River Greenway. It also briefly touches the Cannon Valley Trail and the Red Wing Riverfront Trail.

As this is primarily a road cycling route that uses public roads and some multi-use paths, dogs are generally allowed, but rules can vary by specific park or trail section. Always keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of other cyclists and traffic. Check local regulations for any specific restrictions in parks or protected areas you might pass through.

Generally, no specific permits or entrance fees are required to cycle the public roads and most trail segments that make up this loop. However, parts of the route may pass through the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, which is a national park unit. While there are no entrance fees for the park itself, some specific facilities or state parks along the way might have day-use fees or require permits for parking, so it's always good to check ahead if you plan to stop at specific sites.

Yes, the route passes through the charming river town of Red Wing, which offers various options for cafes, restaurants, and pubs. You'll also find amenities in other smaller towns or communities along the Mississippi River. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for longer stretches between towns.

Given the route's classification as 'racebike' and its significant distance and elevation, a road bike is ideal. The route primarily uses paved roads and dedicated paved trails. A lightweight bike with good gearing will be beneficial for tackling the rolling terrain and climbs.