Parking available on Lime Valley Road and STH 22 north of Mankato,also in Madison Lake, Elysian, Waterville, Morristown and Faribault. There are connecting bike trails with the cities of Faribault and Mankato, also a county trail near Mankato.
About
A 39 mile blacktop trail between Mankato and Faribault wandering near pastures and farmland along several lakes, through three small towns, and through a forested state park. The trail is perfect for biking and hiking, and, in the winter, groomed for snowmobiles.
Near the middle of the trail, cyclists are routed through city streets in Waterville, and at Elysian, there is a railroad depot wayside rest. There are swimming beaches at Waterville, Elysian, Madison Lake and Cannon Lake.
Dates
Trail is open to all allowed users year around. Summer seasonal uses generally April thru November. Winter uses generally December thru March.Rates
There is no cost to use the State Trail for bikers, hikers and rollerbladers. A State Ski Pass is required for cross-country Skiing. Snowmobiles must be licensed and have a state trail permit. Horse riders must have a horse trail pass.
More Information
Attraction Attributes
- Can accommodate groups of 45 or more
What's Nearby
Mentioned In
Leo's Malt Shop in Stillwater is one of Minnesota's many must-visit ice cream shops / Paul Vincent
Two cyclists on the Cedar Lake Trail in Minneapolis / Micah Kvidt
Hike to the scenic overlook at Honeymoon Bluff, deep in the Superior National Forest / Roy Son
Minnesota River Valley bike trail in Bloomington
Minneopa Falls / Dave Tapia
The Fall River Bridge portion of the Gitchi-Gami State Trail / Credit: Minnesota State Parks and Trails