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Neurological ride Birding by bike

Summer 2015

CELEBRATING

20 YEARS

Vol. 20, No. 2 May 2015

Minnesota Trails magazine is a continuation of Minnesota Bike Trails & Rides, published quarterly in cooperation with the Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota, a nonprofit organization that acquires, protects and enhances critical lands for public enjoyment. Your $35 membership subscription supportsthis work.

Minnesota Trails is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials and reserves the right to reject unsuitable advertising. Information in this publication is as accurate as possible. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not of Minnesota Trails.

Continuing the

522 Sinclair Lewis AvenueSauk Centre, MN 56378

www.MnTrails.com1-320-351-1414

Minnesota Trails Staff

Dave SimpkinsEditor/Publisher

Jan LasarPublisher/Advertising

Joyce FrericksAccounting

Pat TurnerGraphics Manager

Brian Dingmann Tara Pitschka

Amanda ThooftGraphic Artists

Editorial BoardBrett Feldman

Executive DirectorParks & Trails Council of Minnesota

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2 Summer 2015 Minnesota Trails

Departments

6 Anderson ParkParks & Trails - Trail Builder

8 Trails Q&AParks & Trails - Meet a Friend

16 Bike Ride Guide

20 Bike Trail Guide

46 Business Directory

Columns

4 At company expense Dave Simpkins

4 Trail monitoring Vic Olson

5 Regional parks Michael Tegeder

Upcoming Issues:

Fall: August 2015Hiking, Scenic Byways

Winter: November 2015Ski Trails, Winter Getaway

Spring: March 2016Bike Tours, Mountain Biking

Features

10 Neurological ride Jan Lasar

12 Worldwide ride Jan Lasar

14 Skating tourists Dave Simpkins

15 Birding by bike Dave Simpkins

Thank yous! Find us on:

Cover photo: The Gateway Trail offers many beautiful opportunities for young people to take selfie photographs. MnDNR Photo.

Index photo: The quiet beginnings of the mighty Mississippi River start at the headwaters in Itasca State Park. Paula Wojcik photo.

Minnesota Trails Summer 2015 3

Dave SimpkinsEditor/Publisher

unCommon Ground Bicyclists wanting to help make rid-

ing state bike trails enjoyable can now join a trail-monitoring program thats as easy as riding a bike.

Monitoring is quite simple: bicyclists who enjoy regularly riding a state bike trail can also report maintenance and safety issues to the Department of Natu-ral Resources (DNR) in a kind of Adopt a Trail program. Bicyclists ride about a six-mile section of the trail once a week or so during the biking season.

Trail monitors watch for fallen trees across the trail, developing potholes, and washouts and debris after a heavy rain. For minor issues they clear off the trail when possible, just as any courteous or thoughtful cy-clist would do. Or they may report to the DNR so DNR staff can do the clearing. Monitors do not do any po-licing, but they can report trail rule vio-lations theyve observed to law enforce-ment.

Most of the time, the volunteer ride is just another relaxing time on the trail with no issues.

Monitors are covered by workers comp and liability insurance for any rare occurrences, as is the case with all oficial volunteers of the DNR, which also does a criminal background check (not driving, character or inancial, just criminal court actions) of monitors.

Cyclists can join a group that is already monitoring, or, if there is no group, start one or monitor solo.

For more information and to volunteer, go to the MN DNR website (MN DNR: Volunteer as a State Trail Monitor. Submitted by Vic Olson, [email protected])

Retired Trails editor Vic Olson volunteers to monitor the Heartland Trail as well as doing a regular blue bird count for the MnDNR. Dave Simpkins photo.

by Vic OlsonFormer Trails Editor

Trail monitors wanted

Publishing an annual guide to Minnesotas bike trails and rides sounded like a noble endeavor some twenty years ago to Vic Olson, then publisher of the Northwoods Press in Nevis. He was a regu-lar user and booster of the Heartland Trail and rode many bike rides in the region.

In the spring of 1996, Olson made up a proto-type of his Minnesota Bike Trails and Rides and headed to Cannon Falls on a snowy day. Within two hours he sold enough advertising to ill a page on the Cannon Valley Trail section of his new guide.

Olson biked every trail, tak-ing detailed notes of all the natu-ral, historic or cultural highlights of each trail.

The publication was really an excuse for my wife and I to get out of the ofice and bike all these great trails, enjoying the restau-rants and shops along the way, all at company expense, remembers Olson.

The 1990s were good years for bike trails, new trails and new sections of trails opening each year, added Olson.

I bought the annual news-print publication from the Olsons in 2003 and like Vic, took my wife and toured the trails, at company expense. I shortened the name to Minnesota Trails and converted it to a quarterly publication cover-ing state parks, rivers and skiing as well as bike trails. We shortly became the oficial publication for the Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota, a non-proit organiza-tion that acquires land for state parks and trails.

I was a member of the Coun-cil and igured bikers were like me in that they enjoyed using all of Minnesotas outdoor assets. People who bike also like to hike,

canoe and ski, as well as stay in interesting towns, eat well, sleep well and experience all of what Minnesota has to offer.

The biggest story of that time was the over-whelming support for the 2008 Clean Water, Land & Legacy Amend-ment, which pours mil-lions of dollars into parks and trails each

year. Out of the Legacy project came a big directive to connect many of the state trails with one another, as well as connect many trails to our state parks.

Minnesota is now a pre-mier destination for bikers of all sorts. Last year, Jan Lasar be-came a partner representing a new generation of bikers who bike year around with everything from skinny tire bikes to fat tire bikes, on everything from paved, straight trails to rocky, winding trails. Like Vic and I, Jan is an ac-tive biker and a trail booster who loves riding these great trails with his wife, Jen. Since our wives have served as biking models, weve made a point of publishing a picture of each in this issue.

Jan is proud to be leading Minnesota Trails into the future and enjoying our great parks and trails at company expense.

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CELEBRATING

20 YEARS


By Mike Tegeder, Parks & Trails Council president

Parks & Trails Council is very much identified with our great system of Minnesota State Parks. Indeed, a major undertaking in P&TCs early years was the innovative effort to raise private funds to acquire land for a new state park, which we now know as Afton State Park. A reading of Roy Meyers Everyones Country Estate: A History of Minnesotas State Parks testifies to our essential involvement with many of the great state parks we now enjoy.But we have also had relationships with regional parks for some time and this is a growing involvement as this issues story on Anderson Park in Isanti County testifies.Our 76 state parks are truly jewels that bedeck our state but the growing development of regional parks only enhances the presence of special places for a growing population. This is a great time for P&TC to work with various regional groups like the Friends of An-derson Park to provide more park and trail opportunities. These often are the first connection for people with parks. It was for me.My own appreciation of the parks goes back to when I was about 10 years old.

Living in north Minneapolis did not provide much in the way of outdoor ad-venture. But my parents signed me up for day camp at Baker Regional Park, then known as Lake Independence County Park. Once school ended we were bused out daily for a week where there was swimming, archery, crafts and even fishing from the shoreline. I did this for several years and I still have fond memories of the program. And then my brother and I with some

friends began biking on county roads out to the park for day-long summer adventures. Luckily county roads were not too heavily traveled by cars then.Regional and local parks are very acces-sible. They are often a bike or bus ride away. Working with local and regional groups P&TC support can make them even more available. There is especially an opportunity to connect these parks with regional bike trails. These are exciting days.

parks & trails council of mn w w w . p a r k s a n d t r a i l s . o r g

Letter from the president of Parks & Trails CouncilRegional parks: meaningful to states outdoor recreation

Since 1954, the nonprofit, member-supported Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota has been

saving special places for the publics use and benefit. Together we ensure our states most outstanding natural lands are

preserved for parks and trails. Join us in continuing this legacy for future generations to understand and experience the natural world.

Plus our members receive a years subscription to MINNESOTA TRAILS MAGAZINE. Join Today! Either mail the subscription card enclosed in this magazine or join online

www.ParksandTrails.org

Join us in saving special places!

Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota would like to thank the following sponsor www.pincushiontrailsinn.com


Anderson Park in Isanti County is an almost perfect example of what can be accomplished when a family, a government body and a group of will-ing and active volunteers come together.

In 2007, the Anderson family began talking to Isanti County about selling their 174-acre farm to the county. Lee Kingsbury and some of her neighbors heard about the possible sale and knew that if they wanted to have a voice in what happened with the beautiful natu-ral area, they needed to form a Friends Group.

Two community meetings later, the group had lots of ideas, a few donations, volunteers for a planning committee and plenty of enthusiasmand literal muscleto make things happen.

Our mission was to preserve the natural beauty of the area, said Kingsbury. The park sits in the south-east corner of the county, an area with a great diversity of flora and fauna. The park includes restored prairie, woods, marshes and over a half mile of frontage on two small lakes.

The Friends Group wanted to help in the creation of a park, its members also wanted that park to stay natural. Today, just seven years after the land was sold to Isanti County, the park has several added amenities that maintain the idea of a place to view wildlife, to walk in tranquility and to see Minnesotas geo-logical and topological history.

The Friends of Anderson Park decided that the first thing it wanted to help accomplish was to build a picnic shelter,

Kingsbury said, because it would be a real structure, something that people could use. A picnic structure would help identify the area as a park.

As has been typical for the group, the picnic structure started and finished with lots of people pitching in. A member of the group knew a log builder who offered to help construct the shelter, if the logs were purchased from him. Those two men, plus a group of retirees who called themselves the AARP Crew, built the shelter. The Friends Group raised several $1,000, then asked the township for a grant of $5,000. Then I went to the Isanti County Board and told them we need-ed $24,000 from themfor a $78,000 project, Kingsbury said.

The picnic structure is made of huge logs and looks like it belongs in a natu-ral area. Prairie and rain gardens have been planted around it. Between the shelter and a nearby lake is a natural childrens play area, with play structures made from tree trunks, branches, cul-verts and sand. Kids can and do create teepees, houses, make-believe campfires and anything else their imaginations come up with.

Three boardwalks, one of them 950 feet long, allow visitors to walk through what otherwise might be marshy areas


Friends Group HighlightFriends of Anderson Park Working together to preserve and restore a natural area

The log picnic shelter was put up by volunteers through Friends of Anderson Park.

By Linda Picone, Parks & Trails Council volunteer

Irving and John Anderson County Park

The rich variety of birds in this Isanti County park include sandhill cranes.

...if they wanted a voice in what happened with this beautiful area, they needed a Friends Group.


without damaging the terrainor their footwear. The longest boardwalk has Horse Leg Lake on one side and a wetland on the other, with a big view-ing platform in the middle. The Friends Group helped raise the grant money to create the boardwalks.

Anderson Park has become known to birders for its rich variety of birds, from sandhill cranes to common loons to red-shouldered hawks. The Friends have partnered with the Isanti County Parks Department, the Minnesota Audubon Society and Wild River Audubon Chapter to build a chimney swift tower, hoping to attract hundreds of swifts, a declining species, and to put up purple martin nest boxes in a number of sites in the park.

In 2013, a master plan for the park recommended that adjacent land be acquired for the park as it became available. Barry Wendorf, Isanti County parks director, began contacting the owners of those properties, letting them know that if and when they were ready to sell, the County was interested. The owner of one property responded and talks beganwhich prompted the Friends Group to start fundraising. Then I got a call from another land owner who said it had always been their dream to have their land saved to be part of a park, said Kingsbury. Then another piece of property, on the other side of the lake, also came up for sale. We were just trying to catch our breath.

The Parks & Trails Council of Min-nesota (P&TC) is the fiscal sponsor for Friends of Anderson Park, a role it fills for a number of Friends Groups. The Friends Group suggested that Wendorf contact P&TC to help acquire the land and hold it in trust so the county would have time to raise money. P&TC is currently negotiating with one land-owner and will soon be doing apprais-als and surveys on the other possible acquisitions, while the Friends Group is raising money to use as matching funds for grants. The adjacent properties would grow the park from 174 acres to roughly 280 acres and add a mile of lakeshore.

Between 2008 and 2013, the Friends of Anderson Park estimates that it provided more than 4,000 volunteer hours with an estimated value of nearly $100,000, and generated donations of more than $23,000. Thats a mark of the organizations success, and the com-mitment of its members, but Kingsbury said that for the new acquisitions, it will need more funding. People have stepped forward and put a lot of money on the table.


Helping Friends GroupsParks & Trails Council of Minnesota works to increase the capacity of volunteer-run Friends

Groups for state and regional parks and trails. By helping these groups get established, connecting them with valu-able resources, and helping to acquire land on their behalf, we help grow a tremendous volunteer network to care for these special places. Learn more about this work at

www.ParksandTrails.org

Three boardwalks in the park allow visitors to walk through marshy areas without damaging the ter-rainor their footwear. .


Rob RossiTwin Cities, MN

Gerry BoisjoliDuluth, MN

Susan CowanConyers, Ga. (Here visiting sister)

Rochelle BrodinScandia, MN

QQAAQQQOccupation: Canoe guide for Wilderness Inquiry and independent contractor in theatre design.

Seen: Leading a canoe group of 37 people in Voyageur style canoes through the Mississippi National River & Recreation Area in the Twin Cities.

Favorite river trip: Following the Lewis and Clark Route down the Missouri River in Montana. Great scenery and fascinating history, and I have to say the Big Salmon River in the Yukon.

Miles a year: Make about 60 day trips a year and spend time in the Everglades over the winter.

Gear: A 23-foot Northwest Voyageur canoe made of cedar strips.

Best trail treat: Trail lasagna with re-roasted peppers.Must have: Guides all have one special thing to bring along. Mine is a little wash basin with Dr. Bronners soap.

Goals: I want to get a masters degree in social work and marry my interest in the outdoors with social work.

Seen: Biking the newly-opened Browns Creek State Trail into Stillwater.

Gear: Specialized Globe Sport Bike.

Best trail experience:The kindness of strangers who helped me out when I got caught in a severe thunderstorm.

Worst trail experience: Selsh race-type bikers who come up behind me and pass without warning at high speeds.

Trail treat: Fresh fruit and a home-cooked meal.

With $1000 I would: Trade in our old bike carrier for a better one and replace my daughters stolen bike.

Advice: Hydrate and watch the weather.

Occupation: Computer programmer.

Seen on: Medicine Lake extension of the Luce Line Trail.

What she likes about this trail: Its so green, lakes so beautiful.

Bike: REI Novara. Yearly miles: 200 miles a week. Favorite trail: I just love these Minneapolis area trails with their lakes, parks. I come here every year to bike.

Favorite trail treat: Bakers Square.

Best ride ever: Biking over the North Georgia mountains.

I like to nish a ride with: A swim. It feels good after biking 50 miles to move your arms again.

What biking means to me: Freedom, being outside, in beautiful places and its good for you.

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Occupation: Self-employed stained glass artist. Seen: On a quiet, early-morning hike while camping at Bear Head Lake State Park with her husband, four grown children, two grandchildren and three dogs our circus goes camping.Like about it here: Beautiful, quiet, good shing, no bugs. Favorite campground: Whiteface Reservoir and Floor Lake Campground on Gunint Trail. Best camp trip: Glacier before the kids. Gear: One eight-man canvas tent and a pup tent, a kennel tent, Alumacraft boat, canoe and two kayaks. Favorite treats: Smores of course. Everything tastes good out here. We love big breakfasts before an active day. Family camping advice: Keep the kids busy; swim, hike, bike. Our granddaughter has a pink Princess shing rod that keeps her busy shing with grandpa.

Continued

Gerry Boisjoli cont.How often do you camp: Once a year, three to six days. Dreams: We get home and dream about camping in Alaska or having a cabin of our own on a spot like Bear Head Lake State Park, but that would cost a fortune.

Home Sweet Biome

Snapshots of people we meet along the trailQA&Trails


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On a cool and overcast September morning in central Minnesota, the windows of Charlies Caf in Freeport were fogged with the steam of maple syrup, coffee and bacon.

At the counter, men in coveralls and baseball caps sat on chrome swivel stools and discussed the world while waitresses made their rounds with carafes in hand and notepads tucked in their aprons.

At the same time, in the basement, Doctors Anthony Bottini, Praveen Baimeedi and Christina Gonzaga were discussing Elements of the Neurologic Exam with a group of about twenty Twin Cities clinicians, all of them in need of Continuing Medical Education credits (CME).

Later, in a makeshift bike corral by the Lake Wobegon Trail, they all mounted bikes, put on headphones, and pedaled east to Albany and then north to Highway 10 through the hamlets of Holdingford and Bowlus.

But instead of listening to Taylor Swifts latest creation, the topic was much more serious: The Multidisciplinary Approach to the Treatment of

Low Back Pain.Not your average fare for a casual trail

ride.

TAKE IT OUTSIDEDr. Bottini, neurosurgeon at Park

Nicollet in St. Louis Park, had the idea for taking lessons outdoors at one

seemingly endless event. The problem is, you sit on

your behind for 4-5 hours in a conference room and people nod off, or play with their phones he said.

Having a seminar on a trail seemed like a perfect solution.

I lived in St. Cloud for twelve years, and I was familiar with the

Lake Wobegon and Soo Line trails, he said.

We recorded three hours of medical information and participants listen to it

on their iPods while they get some exercise. The talks were supplemented by slides and

live presentations. People are outside, get

Neurological studies on the trail

by Jan LasarTrails Publisher


seven hours of education, and we get their attention.

And, he adds, no texting.

A SCENIC RIDEBy about 10:30 a.m., the group

had completed their lesson on the trail and gathered for a Q&A session at the shelter in Holdingford, after passing over Minnesotas longest covered bridge.

They had made their way around farms, pastures, and through ields of black-eyed Susan asters, and sumac as the sun was getting stronger.

It took 18 months of planning, and a staff of 12 volunteers to turn Dr. Bottinis idea of a new approach to CME into reality.

Nurses Kelly OBrien and Ginny Ogle were in charge of logistics for the day. They were very busy, but cheerful, despite a pre-dawn start to their day and hours of driving. They and their volunteers leapfrogged from intersection to intersection to alert riders of approaching trafic and ire them on with chants and posters.

It was a unique experience and very worth it, OBrien said.

After Holdingford, everyone continued to the Soo Line Trails pastoral setting and scenic views of swamps and natural areas, dotted with family farms and grazing livestock while taking in yet another lecture.

At the Bowlus community center, a modern version of the towns former train station, it was time to eat. Post lunch, presentations about Neuro-Oncology, Seizure Management and Spine Surgery kept everyone busy, and resting, until 2:30.

Just four miles northeast of Bowlus, the group crossed the Mississippi River at Blanchard Dam on their way to the trailhead on Highway 10.

After 27 miles and seven intense lectures, they were shuttled back to Freeport. (In the last six miles there was one more ipod lesson, this one on Parkinsons disease.)

THE BENEFITSYou form a great relationship with your students and

have a chance for a one-on-one experience, said Dr. Bottini. Most of these people have never seen this trail and

they may come back to visit. I think we will do this again and I think it is scalable, he said. It could be a two- or three-day event and participants could bring their families.

Maybe Educational Tourism is a new facet to recreational trail use in the future, but it was deinitely an above-average day in Lake Wobegon country.


Joff Summerield has a better view of the world.

Hes seen a lot of it from atop his battered, green high wheel bi-cycle since 2006.

He was on his second trip around the globe when he came through Minnesota last July.

I used to be a race engine builder, said Summerield, a tan and slender 46-year-old from London, England, wear-ing what he says is a south-

African-style British army pith helmet.

I started cycling for fun and decided to ride from London to Amsterdam in 2000, and I loved it. Then I wanted to make my own bike and the silliest thing I could think of was a penny-farthing. I have made about 50 or 60 of them by now.

He was lighthearted about mishaps on his irst 22,000-mile

trip from England south through Europe and across India, China and Australia.

I had a lot of fun on my trip in 2006. I learned that

what you see on television about other countries is only a small slice of reality.

Most people are friendly.Besides being robbed

in his sleep in a camp-ground in Prague and a bout with dysentery from drinking tainted water in Turkey, he

has been unharmed.When youre

on the road, you remember every day, and thats how I want to live, he said.

This time around the globe

he started in To-

by Jan LasarTrails Publisher

ronto, Canada. I am only 1,200 miles into it, said Summerield, But my best experience so far has been discovering the bike trails in the U.S. and all the lovely people Ive met. Everyone is so friendly.

Hell follow Adventure Cy-clings Northern Tier Route down the Soo Line, Lake Wobe-gon and Central Lakes Trail and turn south toward the tip of South America. Projected arriv-al: October 2015.

It is such a long trip with so many unknowns that it is hard to plan ahead, he said.

The penny-farthing doesnt offer much for comfort.

It is a lot more work than riding a regular bike. Thats why I travel slowly and cover only about 40-50 miles a day, with lots of breaks, he explains. You cannot stand up and give your bottom a rest. There is only one gear, and your pedals are always turning when youre in motion.

Hills are especially hard to climb on a high wheel.

But a hill always goes down on the other side, he said and smiled. Thats a good way to look at life.

Both tires are made of a solid rubber piece Summerield glued to the rim and stitched together.

For the large tire I cut the tread off of two 700 c tires and glued that on top. The top tread usually lasts about 7,000 miles and I can ind replacement tread anywhere in the world, he said.

The spokes are made up of two parts a hub side and a rim side joined in the middle. The hub side is a regular spoke found at any bike shop. The rim side spoke is a custom piece he made himself.

Carry a smile . . .

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You rarely break a spoke on the rim side. I carried ten of them and on my last trip around the world I only used eight.

Despite the impressive looks of his fully-loaded penny-farthing with its four-foot-diameter wheel and shoulder-height handlebars, the whole thing only weighs about 90 pounds. This includes all of Summerields belongings, a small laptop computer, solar pan-els, and a hub dynamo with a USB port. (The latter charges an ultra-violet water puriication wand, now a staple piece of gear.)

I have to stretch for the han-dlebars from the back and take a step to reach the pedals. Bigger bags would make it impossible to mount the bike, he said.

But besides only bringing what he really needs, Joff carries with him a small rock from the Lon-don grave of

Thomas Stevens, the irst per-son to complete a trip around the globe on a penny-farthing in 1886.

He plans to return the rock when he gets back to London in the fall of 2015.

Until then he will follow his own advice: Carry a smile, it weighs nothing.

On a worldwide ride


People who love in-line skat-ing also love Minnesotas paved trail system.

They love Minnesota trails enough to spend $1,600 for a ive-day skating vacation in the Land of 10,000 Lakes and 500 miles of smooth, wide trails across city and country.

That is why Allan Wright of Zephyr Adventures out of Red Lodge, Mont., has been bringing groups from across the nation to Minnesota since 1998.

This is some of the best skat-ing in the nation, said Wright. The trails are smooth with few hills and nice scenery as well as some interesting little towns to spend the night.

The good maintenance of Minnesota trails is another rea-son Zephyr brings groups to the state, according to Zephyr opera-tions manager Kris Keys.

Because of budget issues, many states have let their trails deteriorate, which may not both-er bikers but is challenging for skaters. Minnesota is the excep-tion, said Keys.

Zephyr takes 15 to 25 skat-ers on trips to Minnesota as well as around the world. Wright re-ports his customers give Minne-sota a 100 percent.

As much as the skating, people like the small towns and

by Dave Simpkins

Trails Publisher

MINNESOTAS PAVED TRAILS ATTRACT

SKATING TOURISTSthe people they meet. We always try to ind a unique hotel, a win-ery to tour or festival to attend, said Wright. We usually have to convince people that they should skate in Minnesota, but once they come, they love it.

Zephyr meets their skating customers at the airport and they provide everything from transportation, lodging, meals, support and staff to guide and assist along the trails.

Zephyrs skate days begin with a breakfast brieing where itineraries are determined by individual skill levels. Skaters will skate from 12 to 30 miles in the morning. A support van will gather the group for lunch. Some will con-tinue skating while others may prefer to take in local at-tractions.

Keys not-ed skating has been declining but their Min-nesota trips are always booked up. Minnesota is helping the sport by provid-ing such good trails.

This is another reason peo-ple love skating in Minnesota; there are so many other things to do while they are here, said Wright.

They like to stay in nice ho-tels in downtown Minneapolis or unique hotels in rural Minne-sota.

Keys concluded, There is nothing like skating on a nice, smooth trail through nature and then end the day with a swim, a concert or a big meal.


Diana Doyle doesnt log high-speed miles on her bi-cycle.

Biking with Julian Sellers would also disappoint seri-ous speedsters.

If you bike with these members of the Audubon Society, crank your bike seat down to allow many stops, bring your binoculars and dont talk too much because they will be listening to bird songs.

Biking along bike trails and through parks has be-come their preferred meth-od of birding transportation.

Driving a car to birding spots uses too much fuel, pollutes the atmosphere and separates you from the sights and sounds of birding.

Walking is too slow. Bik-ing provides the right pace for listening for bird songs.

Doyle felt guilty every time she took the family SUV chasing off to add a rare bird to her bird list.

Her guilt motivated her to do a Big Green Birding Year (BGBY) list, where par-ticipants build a bird list from non-motorized birding. By the end of the year, she counted 210 species, add-ing the long-eared owl seen at Roberts Bird Sanctuary to her life list.

Doyle believes her BGBY made her a better birder.

Sellers believes bike trails offer good birding op-portunities as well.

Many of the long bike trails across Minnesota are off the beaten path and of-fer a variety of habitat, says

by Dave Simpkins

Trails Publisher

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bike rides & toursTOUR DE PEPINSaturday, June 6, 2015 @ 7 amSponsor: Lake City Chamber of CommerceLocation: Lake City, MNPhone: 651-345-4123Email: [email protected]: www.lakecity.org/tourdepepin/

Ride Lake City to Wabasha, cross the Mississippi into Nelson and on to Pepin on the Wisconsin side. From Pepin, make your way to Stockholm, WI. From there, the Pearl of the Lake paddleboat will take you and your bike across Lake Pepin back to Lake City.

TOUR OF LAKES Saturday, June 6, 2015 @ 8 amSponsor: Paul Bunyan CyclistsLocation: Brainerd, MN Email: [email protected]: www.paulbunyancyclists.com

Experience the beautiful Brainerd Lakes HYLHHZ`V\YPKLSV^[YHMJYVHKZWHZ[SHRLZHUKMVYLZ[YVHKZYVSSPUNVU[VH[[LYYHPU

Registration deadline is May 1, or when 1,200 riders are registered.

TOUR OF MINNESOTAFriday, June 12, 2015 @ 8 am toFriday, June 19, 2015 @ 5 pmLocation: Chaska, MNPhone: 952-215-5056Email: [email protected]: www.tourofminnesota.comCost: $410 - The registration cost includes all meals on riding days, camping accommodations, transportation of gear, bicycle repair and a commemorative T-shirt.

The ride will begin in Chaska on June 12 and travel through south central Minnesota. Overnight stops will include Faribault, Austin, Albert Lea, Owatonna and 5VY[OLSK;OL YPKL^PSS JVUJS\KLVU 1\UL19 back in Chaska after about 330 miles.

CARAMEL ROLL RIDESaturday, June 13, 2015 @ 8 amLocation: Albany, MNPhone: 320-293-9364Email: [email protected]: www.lakewobegontrails.com

Well have the usual three options for riders; east to Avon, Collegeville and St. Joseph, west to Freeport and Melrose, and north to Holdingford and the covered bridge, then on the Soo Line Trail to Bowlus and Blanchard Dam on the mighty Mississippi River.

WATER CARNIVAL ROTARY BIKE RIDESaturday, June 13, 2015 @ 7:30 amSponsor: Hutchinson RotaryLocation: Hutchinson, MNPhone: 320-339-0038Email: [email protected]: www.hutchinsonrotary.org/events/water-carnival-bike-ride/Distances: 20, 65, or 100 milesCost: $20-$25 for pre-registration

A beautiful ride through rural, central Minnesota. This ride has been called one of the most hospitable events, with volunteers providing encouragement, safety, water, food and SAG wagon patrols.

DAM2DAM RIDESaturday, June 20, 2015 @ 8 amSponsor: Little Falls Convention & Visitors BureauLocation: Little FallsPhone: 800-325-5916Email: [email protected]: www.cmnbikeclub.comCost: FREE (please wear a helmet)START: LeBourget Park, Little Falls. Follow the Great River Road through Charles A. Lindbergh State Park to Blanchard Dam for a 20-mile ride, or cross the river twice and enjoy 41 miles of Mississippi riverfront and quiet back roads with two rest stops.

BIKE BEMIDJISaturday, June 20, 2015 @ 8 amSponsor: Visit BemidjiWebsite: www.bikebemidji.comDistance: 17-mile loop

Family-friendly bike ride around Lake Bemidji. Easy, paved route with festive rest stops. Additional evening activities include movies at the Waterfront and a theater production at the Paul Bunyan Playhouse.

LADY SLIPPER RIDESaturday, June 20, 2015 @ 8 amLocation: Avon, MNPhone: 320-293-9364Email: [email protected]: www.lakewobegontrails.com

See the Minnesota State Flower, the Pink and White Showy Lady Slipper, in full bloom. Riders will have the opportunity to visit the Saint Johns Outdoor University / Abbey Arboretum, including the Stickwork Sculpture completed by artist Patrick Dougherty.

CANDISC Tour 2015AUGUST 1ST-8TH, 2015

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Tour of ChampionsStarts & Ends in Garrison, ND

www.candisc.net1-800-799-4242

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Hit the TrailsThen hit us!

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6825 Hwy 10 Ramsey, MN763-323-6666

TREK GIANT

ramseybicycle.com

A total of 330 miles through South Central Minnesota

June 12-19, 2015

FORMERLY THE KLOBUCHAR RIDE

www.tourofminnesota.com

Start in Chaska, MN, on to Fairbault, Austin, Albert Lea, Owatonna, Northfield, and

back to Chaska.

Bike RideBikkkkkkkkkkkee RiiddddddddddddeeBike RiRideeShooting Star Trail

Saturday, June 27, 2015LeRoy, MN

20, 40, 50, 62, 100 mile routes Through the prairies of southeastern Minnesota

www.shootingstartrail.orgLeroy, MN


bike rides & toursROTARY RIDE FOR CLEAN WATERSaturday, June 20, 2015 @ 7 amLocation: Pequot Lakes, MNPhone: 218-568-6027Email: [email protected]: www.rotaryrideforcleanwater.orgDistances: 7, 16, 30, or 50 milesCost: Individual - $40; Family - $80

Family-friendly fun ride through the 3HRLZ (YLH ILUL[PUN 9V[HY` >H[LY Sanitation Projects.

SWISS CHEESE & SPOTTED COWS BICYCLE TOURSaturday, June 27, 2015 @ 8 am to Thursday, July 2, 2015 @ 5 pmPhone: 651-335-6505Email: [email protected]: www.scscbiketour.com

A 5-day bicycle tour featuring the best VMZV\[OLYU>PZJVUZPUHUKUVY[OLYU0SSPUVPZ

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bike rides & toursSPLIT ROCK TOURSaturday, July 18, 2015 @ 6:30 amLocation: Ordean Building, Duluth, MNPhone: 218-624-4008Website: www.veloduluth.com

Come join us for one of the most scenic bicycle rides in the Midwest.

This bike tour will take you along the beautiful North Shore of Lake Superior. You will experience spectacular lake views and gentle, rolling terrain.

BIKE MS: TRAMThursday, July 23, 2015 (All day) toTuesday, July 28, 2015 (All day)Location: Northern MinnesotaPhone: 855-372-1331Email: [email protected]: www.myMSbike.org

;OPZPZHM\SS`Z\WWVY[LK[OYLLVY]Lday cycling vacation in northern Minnesota with festive overnights and activities along the route and refreshments at rest stops, mechanical and medical support with a UPZOSPULJLSLIYH[PVUHUKTVYL

CANDISC 2015 TOUR OF CHAMPIONSSaturday, August 1, 2015 @ 8 am toSaturday, August 8, 2015 @ 5 pmLocation: Garrison, NDPhone: 1-800-799-4242Email: [email protected]: www.candisc.netCost: $220 pr person, $450 per family.

CANDISC is a fully-supported bicycle tour ride, not a race. This year, Tour of Champions will overnight in seven host communities. All these communities have treated the CANDISC cyclists as champions and extended the warmest of welcomes. The tour will be a total of 369 miles.

GREAT RIVER ENERGY MESABI TRAIL TOURSaturday, August 1, 2015 @ 8 amLocation: The Mesabi Trail in NE MinnesotaPhone: 877-637-2241Email: [email protected]: www.mesabitrail.com Distances: 72, 53, 25, or 11 milesCost: $45 Individuals, $90 Families (kids ride FREE), Fee increase after July 22nd

The tour is designed for serious riders and families alike - traveling from Coleraine to Eveleth. Entry includes a T-shirt, picnic KPUULYHUKT\ZPJH[UPZO YLZ[ Z[VWZ^P[Ofood and entertainment, transportation for riders and their bicycles.

TOUR DE TONKASaturday, August 1, 2015 @ 7:30 amSponsor: Minnetonka Community EducationLocation: Minnetonka, MNPhone: 952-401-6800Email: [email protected]: www.tourdetonka.orgDistances: 16, 28, 49, 57, 77, or 100 miles.

A scenic bike ride through the Lake Minnetonka area and its surrounding communities. With six different route options, there is a ride for everyone!

RE/MAX RESULTS BREAST CANCER RIDESaturday, August 8, 2015 @ 8 amSponsor: RE/MAX ResultsLocation: Eagan, MNPhone: 651-209-8387Email: [email protected]: www.breastcancerride.orgDistances: 12 or 65 milesCost: $45

Join the RE/MAX Results Breast Cancer Ride on Saturday, August 8, 2015 and pedal for a purpose! Cyclists of all ages will be able to choose from multiple routes, THRPUNP[LHZ`[V[`V\YHIPSP[`SL]LS

GITCHI-GAMI TRAIL ASSOCIATION BIKE RIDESaturday, August 15, 2015 @ 8 amSponsor: Gitchi-Gami Trail AssociationLocation: Gooseberry Falls State Park, Two Harbors, MNPhone: 218-370-1003Email: [email protected]: www.ggta.orgDistances: 28, 37, or 55 milesCost: $30 before August 1

The ride returns to the format of three loops beginning at Gooseberry Falls State Park, on the scenic North Shore of Lake Superior. The 28-mile ride is entirely on the Gitchi-Gami State Trail, passes through Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, and turns around at the new Beaver Bay wayside. The 37- and 55-mile options add inland loops on roads. Mechanical, emergency and SAG support are provided. Refreshments and a ride T-shirt are included.

SAT., August 15, 2015

Saturday, September 12, 2015 + Northeld, Minnesota100 mile + 60 mile + 45 mile + 30 mile + 12 mile

Scenic Routes + Sheltered Rest Stops

www.jessejamesbiketour.orgSponsored by the Rotary Club of Northeld

GET IN YOUR10 !


bike rides & toursTASTE OF THE TRAILThree Saturdays in September 09/12, 9/19, 9/26 @ 10 amSponsor: Root River Trail TownsLocation: Southwestern, MNPhone: 507-429-2464Email: [email protected] Website: www.rootrivertrail.org

Fall has the perfect weather to explore the Root River Trail System!

Come sample local fare and trail treats and enjoy the scenery. Each of the three weekends highlights different, colorful communities. September 12: Lanesboro, Peterson, Whalan. September 19: Fountain, Harmony, Preston. September 26: Houston, Rushford, Rushford Village. Tastes are free!

JESSE JAMES BIKE TOURSaturday, September 12, 2015 @ 6:30 amSponsor: Northfield Rotary ClubLocation: Northfield Middle School, Northfield, MNPhone: 507-838-8098Email: [email protected]: jessejamesbiketour.org/Distances: 12, 30, 45, 60, and 100 mile routes availableCost: $30 per rider if registered prior to August 15, $40 day-of-event. Riders under 18 accompanied by an adult ride free!

;OPZ IPRL [V\Y PZ HU VMJPHS L]LU[of Defeat of Jesse James Days, one of Minnesotas largest community celebrations.

1VPU\ZMVYHYPKLVUVULVM]LZJLUPJroutes through beautiful southern Minnesota towns.

CARAMEL APPLE RIDESaturday, September 12, 2015 @ 8 amLocation: Sauk Centre, MNPhone: 320-293-9364Email: [email protected]: www.lakewobegontrails.com

Enjoy the fall colors and great apple refreshments, including caramel apples, at all the rest stops! Spend the day enjoying good BBQ, good music and a good time at the Annual Grillin-n-Chillin event in Sauk Centre the same day as our ride.

ST. PAUL CLASSIC BIKE TOURSunday, September 13, 2015 @ 7:15 amLocation: University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, MNPhone: 952-882-3180Email: [email protected]: www.bikeclassic.org

+PZJV]LY [YHMJMYLL NSLL VUMinnesotas biggest bike tour! More than 6,000 riders come from miles away to enjoy a wonderful ride through Saint Paul.

AUTUMN TREK BICYCLE RIDE Sunday, September 20, 2015 @ 8 amLocation: Hoffman Park in River Falls, WIPhone: 715-386-6649Email: [email protected]: www.rivervalleytrails.org

The 2015 Autumn Trek bike ride starts just east of the Twin Cities at Hoffman Park in River Falls, Wisconsin, and takes you through some of the most scenic country-side in Western Wisconsin.

MINNEAPOLIS BIKE TOURSunday, September 20, 2015 @ 8 amSponsor: Minneapolis Park and Recreation BoardLocation: Boom Island in Minneapolis, MNPhone: 612-230-6497Email: [email protected]: www.minneapolisbiketour.comDistances: 16, 25 and 32 milesCost: Adult: $30; Youth: $20 ($5 Discount with code mntrails15)

The Minneapolis Bike Tour has become a tradition for cyclists of all ages. The tour provides individuals and families the opportunity to enjoy Minneapolis spectacular park and trail systems at their own pace, unhindered by motorized [YHMJ7YVJLLKZILUL[IPJ`JSLLK\JH[PVUsafety and trail projects.

HEADWATERS 100Saturday, September 26, 2015 @ 7 amLocation: Park Rapids, MNWebsite: www.itascatur.org Register online at: www.zapevent.com Distances: 45, 75, and 100 miles

This fall classic takes you through the heart of Minnesotas lake country. Experience golden fall colors, towering pines and an unforgettable ride on Wilderness Drive through Itasca State Park.

MANKATO RIVER RAMBLESunday, October 11, 2015 @ 8 amLocation: Mankato, MNEmail: [email protected]: www.bikeriverramble.org

The River Ramble offers one great ride with four scenic routes and four fun rest stops that feature great live music, delicious treats, beverages and refreshing fruit.

MTN BIKETRAIL


bike trail guide METRO

Grand Rounds As the only urban national scenic byway, Minneapolis Grand Rounds travels 52 miles through the heart of the Twin Cities, with many impressive views of the downtown skyline, yet is as green, lush and lined with waterways as most of our rural byways.

Minnehaha Park is a great place to start and end a day of trail riding. There is a large pavilion with a seafood restaurant, picnic tables, ball fields and a walking path.

Mississippi Byway is a great trail to notice the geological wonders of bluffs, gorges and river bottoms.

Downtown Riverfront Old flourmills and locks and dams are visible from the Stone Arch Bridge where you will want to stop to view St. Anthony Falls.

Northeast Continue your history tour of the Mississippi River and the historic neighborhoods for viewing barges, trains and trucks moving from Deming Heights.

Victory Memorial Parkway tours the historic rows of trees and markers that commemorate the Hennepin County servicemen of World War I.

Theodore Wirth Park is Minneapolis largest park with a quaking bog, the Eloise Butler Flower Gardens and a bird sanctuary.

Chain of Lakes Bicycle and pedestrian paths run throughout the area with many attractions along the route.

SWR-LRT Trail The Southwest Regional Light Rail Transit Trail is one of the most diverse recreational trail systems in the state. Centered in Hopkins, the system has a North Corridor to Victoria and the Carver Park Reserve, a South Corridor to Chanhassen and the Minnesota River Valley and a Hutchinson Spur Loop of two trails leading into Downtown Minneapolis and the Chain of Lakes.

While the LRT Trails are made up of 46 miles in two trails that cross on their way into Minneapolis, they also connect to another 75 miles of inner-city trails.

Hopkins/Minneapolis Loop Hopkins is the hub of this LRT system and the Depot Coffee House is the hub of Hopkins biking activities, located at the Southeast corner of the intersection of Hwy 169 and Excelsior.

From the Depot Coffee House, cross Excelsior Boulevard, to the unmarked start of the 4.3-mile-long Hutchinson Spur section of the Cedar Lake Trail. This spur winds through neighborhoods in northern St. Louis Park along a greenway that snugs up to backyard gardens and baseball diamonds.

There are many trails in the Minneapolis area for your riding enjoyment.

Grand Rounds Trail System


The Gateway Trail may cut through Suburban St. Paul but it feels like riding in the far north. Dave Simpkins photo.

TrekElectra

SALES

SERVICE

RENTALS

Gateway CycleOn the Gateway Trail

6028 Hwy. 36 Blvd. No. Oakdale, MNwww.gatewaycycle.com

651-777-0188

Store Hours: Mon - Fri: 10 am - 8 pmSat: 9 am - 5 pm Sun: 12-4 pm

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Find Your Next Adventure

MapsEventsDestinations

MARINEGENERAL STORE

Marine on St. Croix off Highway 951.5 mi. so. of William OBrien State Park

Visit Minnesotas Oldest General Store

Made-to-order Deli Sandwiches & Hot Lunches, Picnic Boxes, Picnic Supplies, Pop & Snacks, Brats, Burgers, Hotdogs,

Fresh Meats, Groceries, Ice, Bait, Camping Supplies.

Summers:Have Ice Cream

on the Mill Stream at the General

Scoop

GATEWAY/BROWNS CREEK bike trail guide

18.3 miles of paved trail from St. Paul to Stillwater.

5.9 miles Browns Creek Trail.

www.MNTrails.comFind More Maps at

TRAIL

GATEWAY/BROWNS CREEK STATE

Ramsey and Washington Counties

Bike Trail

ParkingRest Area

P

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Maplewood

Minnehaha Ave.St. Paul

Oakdale

Mahtomedi

Grant

Duluth Junction

Stillwater

North St. Paul

Gatewa

y State

Trail

Browns Creek Trail

Little Canada

Roseville

Vadnais Lakes

Vadnais-Snail Lakes Reg. Parks

Pine Point County Park

Phalen-Keller Regional Park

L. Owasso Gervais L.

Keller L.

Lake Phalen

White Bear Lake

694

35E

35E

Gateway/ Browns Creek Trail The Gateway Trail is a true getaway trail starting deep in metropolitan St. Paul, at Cayuga/LOrient streets, just a mile north of the State Capitol. It finishes after 18.3 miles at Pine Point Regional Park, five miles north of Stillwater. The trail is open to biking, hiking, horseback riding, in-line skating and skiing and is wheelchair accessible (electric wheelchairs are allowed). The paved trail on the old Soo Line railway grade quickly changes from an urban trail to a rural trail with forests, lakes, wetlands and prairies, with very little development and road noise. It isnt as wide as current trails and can be busy, especially on weekends. The trail from Cayuga Street to Jamaca Avenue (11.9 miles) is plowed and open to all winter biking. East from Jamaca Avenue it is groomed for cross-country skiing only. There is an unpaved trail north of Hadley, paralleling the paved trail used by horses, as well as dog sleds in the winter.

The Gateway State Trail provides access to other trail opportunities in Phalen-Keller Regional Park, Bruce Vento Trail, and connections to Stillwater and other destinations in Washington County.

It is is also close to Como Park, Lake Elmo Regional Park, Afton State Park, William OBrien State Park and the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.

Browns Creek Trail Connection About 9 miles from St. Paul on the Gateway Trail, at Duluth Junction (about Highway 96), the Browns Creek Trail starts and runs 5.9 miles into downtown Stillwater. The trail passes through heavily-wooded areas and past golf courses. Riders can view a historic stone bridge from the mid-1800s. At about the halfway point, Browns Creek Park provides restrooms and ample parking. Then, riders will descend a canyon to Highway 95. This section of the trail provides views of spectacular fall colors and small waterfalls. In this area, Browns Creek is a designated trout stream. The final miles of the Browns Creek trail follow the St. Croix River into Stillwater.

The trail will eventually cross the St. Croix River into Wisconsin on the historic lift bridge, once it is turned into a bike/pedestrian bridge and motor vehicle traffic is re-routed to a new bridge.


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651-437-6775 or visit www.HastingsMN.org

30 miles of city trails with breathtaking views of the Mississippi and Vermillion Falls

Ride the MRT Explore Afton State Park

Bridge photo courtesy of David R. Youngren, 2013

Outdoor fun for everyone

www.redwing.org

BIKE RENTALS AND STORAGE AVAILABLE

STEPS AWAY FROM CANNON VALLEY TRAIL &

GREAT RIVER ROAD NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY

HISTORIC GUESTROOMS OUTDOOR PATIO

OVERLOOKING THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER

ENJOY THE TRAIL & STAY AT THE

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bike trail guide CANNON VALLEY

Cannon Valley Trail The 20-mile paved Cannon Valley Trail from Cannon Falls to Red Wing follows an old Chicago Great Western railroad route and hugs the Cannon River. The trail is bordered by cliffs and lined with wildflowers, often under the canopy of lush trees.

The trail is open year-round for non-motorized use, and groomed for cross-country skiing in the winter.

It also has several interpretive sites as well as rest stops with benches, water and toilets.

Trail users are required to purchase a wheel pass ($4/day, $25/season).

Along the Trail: In Cannon Falls, the city section of the trail begins in a park on the Cannon River near the falls that gave the city its name.

This half-mile trail has some steep

hills as it winds around the park, pic-nic areas and ponds before heading through a residential area to the official start of the Cannon Valley Trail at the top of the hill with an old, still-used highway bridge in view.

Seventeen old mileage markers can be seen along the trails route. Originally, these concrete posts were used to iden-tify the number of miles from Mankato, which explains why youll see these same markers on the Sakatah Trail.

About two-and-a-half miles into your trip youll find a scenic overlook 40 feet above the Cannon River. It is the largest southeastern Minnesota river, beginning in Rice County and emptying

into the Mississippi River. The Anderson Memorial Rest Area, under tall trees and along a bridge over Trail Run Creek, of-fers picnic tables and toilets.

The little town of Welch is the mid-point of the ride and has a rest stop that includes bathrooms.

A 1912 train wreck spilled a load of granite blocks on the hillside near Welch. These blocks, rumored to be tombstones, can still be seen today.

The trail then passes by Cannon River Turtle Preserve SNA, Red Wing, Silvernale Archaeology Preserves and a wetland observation deck, before reach-ing the downtown Red Wing trailhead near the historic Pottery Place.

TRAILCANNON VALLEY

A 19.7 MILE LONG RECREATIONAL TRAIL

52

19

Oak Lane

To Rochester

Lake Byllesby Regional Park

Goodhue County Park

Lake Byllesby

To Twin Cities

To Hastings

Cannon Falls

Cannon Falls Campground

(private)

Hidden Valley Campground

(private)

www.MNTrails.comFind More Maps at

Welch Station Access

WelchCannon River

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Red Wing

More detailed information at www.cannonvalleytrail.com

The Cannon Valley Trail offers a nice ride with breathtaking views. Dave Simpkins photo.


SAKATAH SINGING HILLS bike trail guide

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Minn

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River

Kasota

Eagle Lake County Park

Duck Lake County Park

Bray County Park

Janesville Sportsmans Park

Lake Francis City Park

Sakatah Lake State Park

Morristown Centennial Park

St. Peter

Minneopa State Park

North Minnesota River Trail

Minneopa Trail

Red Jacket Trail

Mankato

Rapidan

Eagle Lake

Madison Lake Waterville

Jenesville

Waseca

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Morristown

Warsaw

Faribault

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Cedar Lake

WellsLake

CannonLake

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LakeTetonka

Lake

Reeds Lake

Lake Elysian

Madison Lake

Round Lake

Duck Lake

Ballantyne Lake

Eagle Lake

Wita Lake

LakeWashington

Sakatah Singing HillsSTATE TRAIL

Find More Maps atwww.MNTrails.com

Sakatah Singing Hills Trail The Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail runs 39 miles between Mankato and Faribault. This paved, abandoned railroad bed passes through cool, wooded areas as well as open, sun-drenched farm fields and connects the communities of Mankato, Madison Lake, Elysian, Waterville, Morristown, Warsaw and Faribault.

Besides the woods and open fields, there are several river crossings, fields of sumac, many ponds, several lakes and lots of benches for resting. At Madison Lake, a historical marker tells of Charles Lindberghs barnstorming days when he gave rides in his Jenny for $5 in a nearby field.

About three-fourths of the trail is under a canopy of tall trees, giving it a boulevard feeling at times, and a forested feeling at other times. At Waterville, the trail passes through Sakatah Lake State Park under a dense canopy of trees and provides a separate bicycling campground, picnic grounds, lake access and hiking trails.

The Faribault access to the Sakatah Trail is at the White Sands trailhead one-half mile north of Highway 60.

There are several other lakes and public parks within an easy ride of the trail.

The trail is open to biking, hiking, in-line skating, cross-country skiing, horseback riding and snowmobiling in some sections.

Other connections include the paved 12-mile Red Jacket trail between Mankato and Rapidan. It crosses over three railroad trestles, including historic Red Jacket Trestle, which is 80

feet high and 550 feet long. The North Minnesota River Trail brings cyclists from the Sakatah Trail through downtown Mankato into the Sibley City Park, where they can connect with the paved Minneopa Trail directly into Minneopa State Park. Also accessible is Mankatos city bike trail system of over 50 miles.

Future connections on the Faribault side include the Mill Towns Trail into Cannon Falls, the starting point of the Cannon Valley Trail into Red Wing.


bike trail guide ROOT RIVER

EatShopBikeTour

Find Harmonyin Your Life.

To request your FREE Visitor Guide, call

1-800-247-MINN

exploreharmony.com

Explore the Root River and Harmony/Preston Valley trails.

Home of Niagara Cave Moreand

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Announcing: The SE MN State

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MAYFridays Preston Farmers Market15-17 Preston Trout Days Celebration17 PACC Annual Golf Tournament23 Historic Forestville, They Built This Town

JUNEFridays Preston Farmers Market6 Historic Forestville, Bread Making Day11 Prestons Family Fun Night13 Historic Forestville, From the Chum20 Historic Forestville, Bread Making Day27 Historic Forestville, From the Chum

JULYFridays Preston Farmers MarketMN Historical Society Traveling Exhibit Coming of Age: The 1968 GenerationJuly 4-Oct 4 at Filmore County History Center4 Historic Forestville, Independence Day at Forestville9 Prestons Family Fun Night

19 Fillmore County Pork Producers Fly-In Drive-In Breakfast21-25 Fillmore County Fair25-26 10th Annual Mens Fastpitch Tournament

AUGUSTFridays Preston Farmers Market13 Prestons Family Fun Night

SEPTEMBERFridays Preston Farmers MarketMN Historical Society Traveling Exhibit Coming of Age: The 1968 GenerationJuly 4-Oct 4 at Filmore County History Center10-30 Scarecrows Come to Town Sponsored by Preston Chamber19-20 Bluff Country Tractor Ride Sponsored By Preston Historical Society18-19 City Wide Garage Sales19 Taste of the Trail19 Firemans Dance, Sportsmans Rafe19 Kids Health & Safety Day

Root River Trail/Harmony-Preston Valley Trail The

scenic Root River Trail in the heart of southeastern Minnesotas Bluff Country runs from Fountain all the way through Lanesboro, Whalan, Peterson, Rushford and Houston for a total of 42 miles. The former rail bed follows the meandering Root River through spectacular limestone bluffs, picturesque farms and small towns. It is generally flat and level, except for short stretches on its eastern segment.

At Isinours Junction it connects with the 18-mile-long Harmony-Preston Valley Trail which connects the two communities it was named for. The northern two-thirds of this trail are built on abandoned railroad grade and are fairly flat. The southern segment leaves the constraints of the railroad bed and climbs to the rim of the valley with great views of the countryside. Stop and see a large sinkhole at the Karst Interpretive Site a half-mile from Harmony. A similar site is about a mile from Fountain on the Root River Trail.

Historic buildings and rural communities along both trails have points of interest to trail users. They also provide many services. Campgrounds, bed and breakfasts, restaurants, museums, outfitters and unique stores are found in many of the trail towns.

Summer uses on both trails include hiking, biking and inline skating. Trails are groomed for cross-country skiing in the winter.

PARKINGFountain: From Highway 52 take

County Road 8 about one mile to the parking lot by the city park/softball field.

Preston: Highway 52 to Fillmore St. (Co. Road 12), approximately 1/2 mile to the parking lot.

Lanesboro: Parking along streets, at the parking lot by the Community Center and Sylvan Park.

Whalan: Parking is on the street.Peterson: From Highway 16, turn

west onto Highway 25 (Mill St.) into town; turn south on Fillmore St. to the city park/campground.

Rushford: From Highway 16, turn north on Elm Street (State Hwy. 43), go one block west. The parking lot is by the old depot.

Houston: Houston Nature Center, turn west on Plum Street off of Hwy. 76, go one block.

Harmony: Hwy. 52, to 4th Street NW, approximately one-half mile west to the parking lot.

Other DNR facilities include Forestville State Park, Beaver Creek Valley State Park, Root River Water Trail, R.J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest and Rushford Sand Barrens S.N.A.

Bridge ahead is a common call on the Root River Trail. Dave Simpkins photo.


ROOT RIVER/HARMONY PRESTON TRAIL bike trail guide

35455 State Highway 16Lanesboro, MN 55949

507-467-2598 www.eagle-cliff.com

We Rent Tubes, Canoes & Kayaks!Well Drop You Off!

Bike The Root River Trail

lanesboro.com

Center of the Root RiverState Bike Trail, 60 miles - paved.

Center of the Root RiverState Bike Trail, 60 miles - paved.

B&B Capital of MinnesotaB&B Capital of Minnesota

Enjoy a down home, local experience. Savor the fare of great cooks, artisans & entertainers. Weve got your tastes covered.

3 Saturdays in September 2015 10am - 3pmSeptember 12: Lanesboro, Peterson, Whalan September 19: Fountain, Harmony, Preston September 26: Houston, Rushford, Rushford Valley

Sample Local Flavors along the Root River Bike Trail System

Taste Testing of Local Foods

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OPEN: 11-9 Mon-Thurs 11-10 Fri & Sat 12-9 Sun

Enjoy pizza, soft-serveLFHFUHDPDYRUVof ice cream, and many delicious menu items!+RPHPDGH:DH&RQHV

eVy !

Relax in a historic 1915 renovated creamery building right off the trail!

407 S. Mill St., Rushford 507-864-7214www.the-creamery.com

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Parking

County Route

Public Campground

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ROOT RIVER HARMONY-PRESTON

VALLEY

TRAILSFind More Maps atwww.MNTrails.com

Isinours Trail Junction

Houston to Rushford 12.6Rushford to Peterson 4.8Peterson to Whalan 8.9Whalan to Lanesboro 4.6Lanesboro to Trail Junction 4.7Fountain to Trail Junction 6.5Trail Junction to Preston 5.5Preston to Harmony 12.3

MILES OF PAVED TRAIL


bike trail guide SOO LINE WEST

116 First Street SoutheastLittle Falls, MN 56345

(320) 632-5374

Le Cordon Bleu trained chefs

View Our Menu Onlinewww.attheblacknwhite.com

116 First Street SoutheastLittle Falls, MN 56345

(320) 632-5374THE BLACK & WHITE

A. T.

Large selection of Minnesota craft beers

and wines from family-owned

vineyards.

View Our Menu Online

Private baths Cable TV Free WIFI Full home-cooked breakfast

Spacious, clean, comfortable, and affordable rooms in a 1937 Colonial Revival

105 1st Ave, Bowlus, MN(320) 584-8193

www.jordiestrailside.com

Outdoor Dining

5LJKWRQWKH622/LQHELNHWUDLO

Canoe & Kayak RentalShuttle Service&RPSOHWH2XWWWLQJ

& Supplies

320-414-0382 or320-360-7244

Little Falls, MNZZZ6KLUOH\0DHV2XWWWHUVFRP

Soo Line Trail This ten-mile trail starts at the northern end of the Lake Wobegon Trail between Holdingford and Bowlus at the Stearns and Morrison County line. The quiet trail crosses a pastoral landscape with an occasional farm and wetland. Bowlus trailhead resembles the long-gone railroad stop and has bathrooms, parking and water. Four miles farther northeast, the trail crosses the railroad trestle just downstream of Blanchard Dam, the tallest dam on the Mississippi, with a 1920s hydroelectric station still in use today. Cyclists have access to Charles A. Lindbergh State Park via the Mississippi River Trail Scenic Bikeway on the west side of the river.

The paved section ends at a trailhead at Highway 10 near Royalton, but continues unpaved to Superior, Wisc., with another paved 11-mile segment between Isle and Onamia near Mille Lacs and Father Hennepin State Parks.

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Albany to Holdingford 9.4Holdingford to County Line 3.6Holdingford to Bowlus 7.6

Soo Line TRAIL


115 1st St. NW, Little Falls, MN 56345Originals, numbered and signed prints available.320.224.3023 www.arivertown.com

a work of A.R.T.

A R Tgallery

stone,marble,granite,polished cement,mosaic,mirror,hardwood,and glass.

Please visit us at:

The Blanchard Bridge is a highlight of the Soo Line. Dave Simpkins photo.


GLACIAL LAKES bike trail guide

700 Diekmann DrivePaynesville, MN 56362

320-243-4146www.paynesvilleinn.com

Right on the Bike TrailRide the Glacial Lakes &

Lake Koronis Trail

PAYNESVILLE INN & SUITES

Jump Right In!

www.willmarlakesarea.com

800.845.8747 ext. 79

360 lakes and miles of trails to explore!

Ride the Glacial Lakes State Trail

Explore Sibley State Park Discover the Glacial Ridge

Scenic Byway Just a short drive west

of the Twin Cities

800 845 8747

Glacial Lakes State Trail The area of Glacial Lakes State Trail was original-ly created by retreating glaciers some 10,000 years ago. The 22-mile, paved

trail is located on a former Burlington Northern Railroad grade. It starts on the north side of Willmar and goes north-east around beautiful lakes and prairie,

Lake Koronis

Trail

Lake Koronis Regional Park

Green Lake Bike Way

Middle Fork

Crow River

Paynesville

Roscoe

Richmond

Hawick

Sibley Park Bike Way

Sibley State Park

New London

Connects to Rocori Trail

City Bike Trail

City Bike Trail

AtwaterKandiyohi

Willmar

Spicer

GLACIAL LAKESTRAILAND BIKEWAYS

4

10

40 P

5

26

8

9

5

Lake Koronis

148

Green Lake

2

40

Diamond Lake

71

71

Nest Lake

Games Lake

Norway Lake

Andrea Lake

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and the towns of Spicer, New London and Hawick, to just shy of Paynesville. A five-mile segment between Roscoe and Richmond is also completed.

City trails take riders through Paynesville and to the 18-mile Lake Ko-ronis Trail, one of three bikeways off the trail. The Green Lake Trail near Spicer runs on a country road between the lake and homes. You can also bike into Sibley State Park from New London on a bike-way. Just east of Richmond, the Glacial Lakes State Trail connects to the Rocori Trail, a planned trail to connect the com-munities of Rockville, Cold Spring and Richmond.


Ladys slippers brighten the Lake Wobegon Trail between Avon and Albany. Dave Simpkins photo

bike trail guide LAKE WOBEGON

Explore the newest stretch of Lake Wobegon Trail and bike the new Soo Line Trail!

Visit us Online www.holdingfordmn.usAd courtesy of

HoldingfordMunicipalLiquorOnSale/OSale

Cyclists Welcome!

320-293-6687320 293 66873320 293 6687

Primitive tent camping & 8 campsites with cement

pads and electrical hook-ups

Camping!Next to the Trail

Biking!

HoldingfordHome of the Lake Wobegon

Trail Covered Bridge

Where every season is above average!

Where every season is above average!

lakewobegontrails.com

Lake Wobegon Trail Church steeples, colleges, cows, lakes and the mythical city of Lake Wobegon greet you on the 49 miles of the Lake Wobegon Trail from St. Joseph to Osakis, with a 9.4 mile spur north from Albany to Holdingford with an additional 7.6 miles to Bowlus. The paved trail goes through the states leading dairy county, seven communities, three lakes, two colleges, two monasteries and the boyhood home of Nobel Prize winner Sinclair Lewis. While much of the trail follows I-94, there are beautiful stretches of woodlands and lakes.

The St. Joseph Trailhead is easy to find, just under the water tower. A few miles outside St. Joseph, see the old town of Collegeville, which now consists of only a few homes, but once had a popular train depot, boarding house, post office and store. You can turn left at Collegeville for a 2.5-mile side trip to Saint Johns University.

Eight miles down the trail at Avon, youll find shelters, bathrooms, a water fountain and a two-storied lookout tower/shelter that gives you a birds eye view of the surrounding region.

The next 5.5 miles is perhaps the most beautiful along this stretch of trail, with deeper woods, prairies and lakes. Keep an eye out for Ladys Slipper orchids in May and June.


LAKE WOBEGON bike trail guide

Just steps off the

Lake Wobegon Trail.

Sauk Centre320-351-7678

HOURS: 9:00 AM-6:00 PM MONDAY-SATURDAY

*CLOSED SUNDAY

www.theoutpostmercantile.comOrganic Trail TreatsHiking, Biking, and Camping SuppliesCoffee, Sandwiches, Frozen Yogurt

Sauk Centre

N

L

Lake Wobegon Trail

Home of Sinclair Lewis Original Main Street

Visit

www.visitsaukcentre.com 855-444-SAUK

Stop by for a bite, an overnight or even shopping on Original Main Street.

Pick up the Lake Wobegon Trail

on any street in Sauk Centre.

A Victorian Bed & Breakfast Four Uniquely Decorated Rooms

2 Blocks from the Wobegon TrailCall us today! 320-491-1072

www.TheEnchantedInnMN.com

605 Main Street SouthSauk Centre

VISIT OUR FABULOUS GIFT SHOP!

- Indoor/Outdoor Bike Storage- Massage/Sauna/Whirlpool

$80 Double Occupancy

Single Occupancy

$45

eElectric

Bike Rentals on the Lake

Wobegon Trail!

[email protected]

320-420-2027

P

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Lakes

Mississippi River

Ochotto Lake

Lower Spunk Lake

Middle Spunk Lake

Upper Spunk Lake

Minnie LakeLinneman Lake

Sagatagan Lake

Kraemer Lake

Lake Anna

127

Bowlus

Royalton

Blanchard Dam

Charles Lindbergh State Park

Holdingford

Melrose

Freeport

Albany

Avon

St. Joseph

West Union

Osakis

Connects to Central Lakes Trail

10

Lake Osakis

Sauk Lake

McCormick Lake

Sauk RiverMill Pond

UhlenholtsLake

Albany Lake

FreeportLake

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Saint Johns University

College of St. Benedicts

94

94

Saint Joseph to Osakis

Lake Wobegon TRAIL

Albany to Holdingford

65 MILES OF PAVED TRAILSt. Joseph to Avon 9.0Avon to Albany 6.9Albany to Holdingford 9.4Holdingford to County Line 3.6Holdingford to Bowlus 7.6 Albany to Freeport 5.3Freeport to Melrose 6.0Melrose to Sauk Centre 9.5Sauk Centre to West Union 7.0West Union to Osakis 5.0

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RestroomShelter

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Just east of Albany, a spur of the Lake Wobegon Trail goes north nine miles to Holdingford, home of Minnesotas longest covered bridge. This spur connects with the paved Soo Line Trail at the county line and offers pastoral views of a natural landscape. The Soo Line trail goes through Bowlus, crosses the Mississippi River at Blanchard Dam, and ends at a trailhead on Highway 10.

West of Albany, youll find Freeport, the birthplace of Lake Wobegon. Garrison Keillor is said to have had the inspiration for some of his fictional places here.

Head west for 5.7 miles to Melrose, home of the historic St. Marys Church and Rectory and the Melrose Area

Museum. The official Melrose Trailhead is across the road near the Melrose Feed Mill.

When you arrive in Sauk Centre, take a detour to see the Original Main Street made famous by Sinclair Lewis in his novel, Main Street. Farther up, you will find a city trail dropping back to Sinclair Lewis Park, where you can find camping, bathrooms and parking.

The 12-mile stretch between Sauk Centre and Osakis veers off into the country through the tiny town of West Union, before entering Osakis.

Just outside of Osakis, continue onto the Central Lakes State Trail, a 55-mile paved trail to Fergus Falls.


bike trail guide CENTRAL LAKES

ChanhassenBOKOO BIKES550 Lake Drive .......................................... 952-934-6468www.bokoobikes.com

BlainePIONEER CYCLE12741 Central Avenue NE ..................... 763-755-8871www.pioneercycle.com

St. Cloud REVOLUTION CYCLE AND SKI160 29th Avenue S .................................. 320-251-2453www.revolutioncycleandski.com

Willmar RICKS CYCLING & SPORTS CENTER320 SW 3rd Street. ................................... 320-235-0202www.rickscycling.com

Duluth STEWARTS BIKES AND SPORT102 S 29th Avenue .................................. 218-724-5101 www.stewartsbikesandsports.com

MaplewoodSTRAUSS SKATES AND BICYCLES1751 Cope Avenue E ............................... 651-770-1344www.straussskatesandbicycles.com

MinneapolisTHE HUB BIKE CO-OP3020 Minnehaha Avenue ..................... 612-729-0437www.thehubbikecoop.org

Hopkins TONKA CYCLE AND SKI16 Shady Oak Road S.............................. 952-938-8336www.tonkacycleandski.com

Champlin TRAILHEAD CYCLING11350 Aquila Drive .................................. 763-712-0312www.trailheadcycling.com

Apple Valley VALLEY BIKE & SKI7707-149th Street W............................... 952-432-1666www.valleybikeandski.com

Giant is the world leader in cycling innovation, combining engineering and manufacturing expertise to create bikes that are suited to every type of rider.

Central Lakes Trail The 55-mile-long Central Lakes Trail starts in Fergus Falls and travels southeast through the communities of Dalton, Ashby, Melby, Evansville, Brandon, Garfield, Alexandria, Nelson and Osakis. Just east of Osakis, it connects to the 49-mile-long, paved Lake Wobegon Trail.

The trail, a former railroad grade, is generally flat and level. It passes through a varied landscape of woods, grasslands, lakes, wetlands and farm fields. Communities with rest stops and amenities are generally seven to ten miles apart. The Central Lakes Trail is open to non-motorized use and groomed for snowmobiling in the winter.

Along the Trail: The official Fergus Falls Trailhead is at DeLagoon Park, where you can find parking, bathroom, picnic and camping facilities about a mile south of the intersection of Minnesota Highway 210 and Pebble Lake Road.

DeLagoon Park is named for Lucy and Philip DeLagoon, who homesteaded the land in 1914. This large park offers camping, swimming and picnic facilities, and is connected to the city with bike routes that take you to Grotto Lake Park with the famous statue of Otto the Otter.

Watch for the well-known statue of Big Ole the Viking at the north end of downtown Alexandria, near the Douglas

County Historical Museum and the famous Kensington Runestone.

Other trail highlights: You will cross the Continental Divide near Fergus Falls, where water flows south into the Mississippi or north into Hudson Bay.

Keep an eye out for pink or yellow Ladys Slippers growing along the trail in early summer.

High rail beds give great views of the many lakes and wetlands along the Central Lakes Trail. Mike Juvrud photo.

Find more detail atwww.MnTrails.com


CENTRAL LAKES bike trail guide

CALL

Great Rates

& Packages

ONLINE

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611 3rd Ave. EastALEXANDRIA, MN

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RELAX in a large whirlpool tub. READ or play a game in our lakeview living room. SITDURXQGDQHYHQLQJERQUH

SNUGGLE under a down comforter on a chilly night.EAT a full breakfast with fresh homemade bread.

More detailed information at www.centrallakestrail.com


bike trail guide GITCHI-GAMI

TOFTE/LUTSEN 7231 West Hwy 61

218.663.7899

SILVER BAY 150 Mensing Drive

218.226.4300

TWO HARBORS1088 Hwy 61 North

218.834.3000

Free, hot breakfast | Free high-speed internet hotel-wide | Indoor pool, hot tub & sauna | Easy rewards loyalty program | Pet friendly

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Gitchi-Gami State Trail The Gitchi-Gami State Trail will eventually trace 88 miles of the North Shore, weaving its way through five state parks from Two Harbors to Grand Marais. Destined to become one of the most scenic paved trails in the nation, the Gitchi-Gami parallels U.S. Highway 61, the popular Superior Hiking Trail, and the Lake Superior Water Trail. Gitchi-Gami offers one more active way to enjoy Minnesotas North Shore.

The longest trail section to date runs 14.6 miles from Gooseberry Falls State Park across the Split Rock River, through Split Rock Lighthouse State Park and Beaver Bay, and on to Silver Bay.

At Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, you ride just below a wayside rest and scenic overlook with a picture-perfect view of the lighthouse. To visit the lighthouse and interpretive center, take the short spur trail leading there.

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park and Beaver Bay both have trail centers with parking.

The one-mile lakeside swing around Highway 61s Silver Creek Tunnel is worth visiting on wheels or on foot, for its panoramic views of Lake Superior.

Theres also a three-mile stretch of trail from Schroeder to Tofte, passing through Temperance River State Park

and offering a view of Carlton Peak. This stretch could make a nice out-and-back casual ride or family trip of six miles, with a stop for a hike to see the Temperance River Gorge.

Gitchi-Gami State Trail - Four SectionsSilver Creek Cliff The Gitchi-

Gami State Trail begins with a short yet impressive one-mile section of the original North Shore Drive, running 4,000 feet around the Silver Cliff Creek Tunnel

northwest of Two Harbors. This section of the trail offers a spectacular vis

1505_Summer_MNTrails

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