Great River Ridge State Trail:
Minnesota
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Description:
From Great River Ridge State Trail:


Located in the beautiful southeastern Minnesota valley, the Great River Ridge State Trail has picturesque views of river bluffs. Built on former railroad grade, the Great River Ridge State Trail is also a fairly easy ride.

When complete, the trail will be paved for 15 miles, and travel between the cities of Plainview and Eyota. Currently, there are 13 miles of paved trail from Plainview, south through the town of Elgin and continues on to County Road 9. Summer uses are primarily bicycling, in-line skating, and hiking. There is also a dual, natural surface treadway from Elgin to County Road 9 that is used for horseback riding in the summer, and snowmobiling in the winter.

Quiet city streets allow users to explore the towns along the way. Plainview is known to be the agricultural hub of the area, and has additional opportunity for recreation in it's 8 city parks. Nearby are also Carley and Whitewater State Parks. Future plans for the Great River Ridge include extension to Carley State Park.

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Parking & Trail Access:
Plainview Trailhead:
From State Route 247 in the town of Plainview go South on S. Wabasha Street (SR 42) for 1/2 mile. Take a right heading North on 3rd Street SW the trailhead and parking lot are on the left.

Southern Trailhead:
From US 14 go north on State Route 42, go 1 1/2 mile and turn left onto County Hwy 9 the trailhead is a short 1/3 of a mile ahead on the right.
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Reviews: [1 trail ratings]
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Varied terrain; sparse amenities
By timbee in June, 2011
In early June I rode this trail on a very hot & windy day which perhaps skews my perception--20-30 mph south wind, 95* & humid. I started in Plainview (aptly named) and headed south to Elgin. The first few miles closely paralleled a fairly busy highway, with very little wind protection i.e. few trees, shrubs. Once past Elgin the scenery improved with more trees & shrubs to block the wind and it was more hilly with some interesting ridges and creeks. Riding back was much better with the wind pushing me.

Trail head amenities were sparse. Only a parking lot in Plainview (with picnic tables); Elgin had a kiosk (nothing more); near Eyota at the southern end was a "porta potty" & a couple of tree stumps to sit on. None of them had water & stores weren't nearby. So plan ahead with water & snacks; learn to hold your bladder. This short trail would be nicer if it were linked to another one . . . maybe that will happen? Unless you're close, this one is hardly worth a special trip. 3 stars on a nice day for a quick jaunt.