One of Minnesota’s most popular and scenic bike trails is again open. Spring is a great time to enjoy it, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
While parts of the 42-mile Root River State Trail were closed in the aftermath of torrential rains and flooding last August, damages have been repaired and the trail is ready for cyclists. The Root River State Trail meanders through scenic southeastern Minnesota amid 300-foot bluffs and along the peaceful Root River, passing through Fountain, Lanesboro, Whalen, Peterson, Rushford and Houston.
“This is a great time to get out and see southeast Minnesota by bike,” said Craig Blommer, DNR area Trails and Waterways Division supervisor. “As the trees bud and leaf out, the landscape becomes a palette of changing colors, and every day is a little different.”
In several places where washouts occurred, the trail surface remains unpaved. However, none of these gravel segments is longer than a few hundred feet and they will be re-paved soon.
“Last year’s floods took a huge toll on people’s lives, livelihoods and homes, but the Root River Trail held up fairly well,” Blommer said. “By mid June, the only evidence of the flood will be a few segments of fresh blacktop.”
More information on the Root River State Trail is available on the DNR Web site at www.mndnr.gov and the Lanesboro Area Chamber of Commerce Web site at www.lanesboro.com.
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