Douglas State Trail follows a former Chicago Great Western Railroad corridor through the rolling farmland of southeastern Minnesota, stretching roughly 12.5 miles between Rochester and Pine Island. The paved trail cuts through some of the prettiest agricultural landscape in Olmsted and Goodhue counties, with wide-open views of fields, wooded stretches, and gentle creek crossings that make every mile feel unhurried.

The flat, well-maintained surface makes this trail accessible to just about everyone. Cyclists and inline skaters love the smooth pavement, while walkers and joggers appreciate the lack of steep grades. In winter, the trail transforms into a corridor for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Horseback riders have a parallel tread along portions of the route, keeping equestrians and wheeled users comfortably separated.

What sets Douglas apart is its connection to the broader trail network around Rochester. It links up with other regional paths, making longer point-to-point rides possible for ambitious cyclists. The small-town charm of Pine Island at the northern terminus — with its local shops and the Cheese Capital of Minnesota reputation — gives you a rewarding destination to aim for.

Spring and fall deliver the best conditions: mild temperatures, fewer mosquitoes, and gorgeous color along the wooded sections. Summer works well for early morning rides before the midday heat settles in.

There are no campgrounds directly on the trail, but nearby state parks and private campgrounds in the Rochester area provide options for overnight visitors looking to extend their stay.

Explore Nearby

• Superior National Forest — National Forest in Minnesota
• Chippewa National Forest — National Forest in Minnesota
• Minnesota Scenic Byways — Scenic Byway in Minnesota
• Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in Minnesota
• The Arches Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Minnesota