With thousands of miles of trails crisscrossing the Land of 10,000 Lakes, it’s easy to find a fantastic spot for outdoor recreation in Minnesota. No matter the season, there’s a beautiful path just around the corner, waiting for you to follow it. Along the way, you’ll likely see beautiful sights, interesting towns, and off-the-beaten-path businesses you never knew existed. One of our favorite trails for exploring Minnesota is the Root River Trail. Passing through many towns, it even has a mouthwatering restaurant right along the trail. Take a look:
The Root River Trail is 60-mile paved trail through southern Minnesota. It connects many communities along the edges of the Root River.
The Root River Trail Towns/Facebook
The trail is a popular destination for outdoors enthusiasts of all types. In the summertime, bikers and skaters make use of the trail. In winter, it’s a popular spot for skiing and snowshoeing.
The Root River Trail Towns/Facebook
All year, this trail is a beautiful spot for quiet walks. The rolling hills of southern Minnesota are gorgeous whether vivid green, cloaked in fall colors, or coated in a dusting of snow.
The Root River Trail Towns/Facebook
Travelers can expect gorgeous views of farms, bridges, and - of course - the Root River itself.
The Root River Trail Towns/Facebook
The trail also passes through several lovely towns. The westernmost trailhead is Fountain, and the easternmost is Houston. Along the way, Lanesboro, Minnesota, is one of the most charming towns in the state.
August Swerdfeger/Flickr
The town is home to a historic restaurant called Old Village Hall, located right off the Root River Trail.
Jeffrey Hamilton/Google
There’s even a lovely outdoor patio overlooking the trail so that you can enjoy the view even when you’re enjoying your meal.
Old Village Hall/Facebook
If you need to escape the heat, the lovely dining room is also a great spot to break for lunch.
Old Village Hall/Facebook
And what a lunch it will be. This delicious restaurant is well-known for its tasty entrees. Whether you choose a light salad or a hearty burger, you’ll walk away pleased.
Old Village Hall/Facebook
This old restaurant is a fabulous place to pause on your trek along the Root River Trail.
Old Village Hall/Facebook
Your meal is sure to fuel you up as you continue your journey along one of southern Minnesota’s most scenic paths.
kstoerz/Flickr
Have you ever taken a trip down the Root River Trail? What were your favorite stops? Let us know in the comments down below!
The Root River Trail Towns/Facebook
August Swerdfeger/Flickr
Jeffrey Hamilton/Google
Old Village Hall/Facebook
kstoerz/Flickr
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