Great River Ridge State Trail winds through the stunning bluff country of southeastern Minnesota, offering a scenic corridor that connects the charming town of Preston to the rolling farmland and wooded valleys of Fillmore County. This paved, multi-use trail follows a former railroad grade, making it accessible and enjoyable for cyclists, hikers, inline skaters, and families with strollers alike.

What makes Great River Ridge special is the landscape it passes through. The driftless region of Minnesota — untouched by the last glaciation — features dramatic limestone bluffs, deeply carved stream valleys, and a patchwork of prairie and hardwood forest you won’t find elsewhere in the state. In autumn, the ridge views explode with color, making it one of the most photogenic trails in the region.

The relatively flat grade and smooth paved surface make this trail ideal for casual riders and younger adventurers, while the distance still offers a satisfying workout for more experienced cyclists. In winter, portions of the trail are groomed for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, extending its appeal year-round.

Preston, at the trail’s hub, serves as a natural base camp with local restaurants, outfitters, and connections to the Root River State Trail system — giving you access to an extensive network of southeastern Minnesota trails. Nearby Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park offers camping and cave tours for those looking to extend their stay.

Visit late September through mid-October for peak fall color, or early June when wildflowers line the trailside and the bluffs are lush and green.

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