Spring Getaway on Minnesota's Root River Trail

Early morning birdsong mixes with the crunch of fine gravel beneath my bike tires. As I hug the curves of the Root River, the rising sun feels hot for early May in Minnesota. Already, a thick blanket of green has spread across the sides of bluffs, over the rolling hills and into treetops shading the trail. I ride for several hours in silence and solitude, save for occasional deer or wild turkey eyeing me from the surrounding fields.

The Root River trail system spans 60 miles, connecting nine communities, with Lanesboro at its heart. By late June, this 750-person town doubles in size each weekend. Tourists wearing bike shorts and fishing waders flood the trails and trout streams. But right now, the Root River Valley is operating at a quiet hum.

Thirty years ago, the state reclaimed a rail line for cycling before the trend caught on nationwide. As the trail network has expanded, so have the attractions in the area. You'll find art galleries, theater, fresh dining choices, even a cool cave tour and novel trout stream—almost enough for a wholly bike-free weekend. Although what a shame that would be.

Quick Guide to Riding the Root

Along the trail, watch for wildlife, barns dotting the countryside and scenic river overlooks.

The basics At 60 miles, the Root River trail system is mostly flat and paved. Towns along the way give your backside a break. A bike-share program in five of them lends out bikes for free.

Follow Camp Creek The Harmony-Preston trail section traces a tributary to the Root River. Trail markers tell of the area's environmental and cultural epochs.

Book a shuttle Little River General Store in Lanesboro will drop you and your bike in Harmony for a 21-mile ride back to home base.

Where to Eat and Drink

Beef comes from a farm down the road at Estelle's Eatery and Bar, a modern cafe on Harmony's Main Avenue. Try a burger dressed up with goat cheese, arugula and blackberry jam.

The High Court Pub serves up seasonal flatbreads, cocktails and craft beer in Lanesboro. Prime patio seating overlooks the river.

Where to Stay

Lanesboro is B&B central. If that's not your jam, try these.

Old Barn Resort offers a campground and hostel, plus a golf course, a pool and tubing between Lanesboro and Preston. The namesake barn houses a restaurant and music venue open to anyone passing through.

An 1885 Lanesboro feed mill now houses 13 themed rooms at Stone Mill Hotel and Suites. Some rooms preserve original equipment inside.

The four rooms at Iron Horse Outfitters and Inn embody steampunk style above a motorcycle shop. Ask about scooter rentals or a tour on the region's back roads.

Where to Shop and Explore

Park the bike for a morning or afternoon of play and exploration.

See works by more than 90 regional artists at The Lanesboro Arts Juried Sales Gallery as you browse beautifully displayed photography, jewelry, ceramics and literature.

Windy Mesa in Lanesboro features a unique collection of horsehair pottery. This lovely style of Navajo art uses actual horsehair in the firing process, melting it into the pottery and creating a marblelike finish.

At Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park, explore a 12-mile maze of subterranean corridors west of Preston. Tours range from an easy 3⁄4-mile stroll to a 4-hour crawl-on-your-belly expedition. Above ground, you can see tallgrass prairie, bluffs and the village of Forestville restored to its 19th-century appearance.