The best road cycling routes in Goodhue County

Goodhue County offers a variety of road cycling routes, with over 10 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to different skill levels, including easy, moderate, and challenging options.

Goodhue County, situated in the Driftless Region, features a diverse landscape with rolling bluffs, hills, and river valleys along the Mississippi River. You'll find a mix of tallgrass prairies, forests, and oak savannas, offering varied elevation changes from gentle slopes to more demanding climbs, especially near the river.

Yes, Goodhue County is home to several dedicated paved trails. The Cannon Valley Trail is a popular 19.7-mile paved trail connecting Cannon Falls, Welch, and Red Wing, offering scenic views along the Cannon River. The Goodhue Pioneer State Trail and sections of the Mill Towns State Trail also provide excellent paved riding experiences.

Absolutely. The region's rolling bluffs and river valleys provide opportunities for challenging road rides with significant elevation changes. For instance, the Geographic Monument/Scenic Overlook – View of the Mississippi River loop from Lake Pepin is a difficult 74.1-mile route with substantial elevation gain, offering rewarding views of the Mississippi River Valley.

Cyclists can enjoy breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and Lake Pepin, especially along routes like the Geographic Monument/Scenic Overlook – View of the Mississippi River loop from Lake Pepin. Other notable sights include the historic Lake Byllesby Dam, the dramatic He Mni Can / Barn Bluff, and various blufftop views such as the Blufftop view of Pleasant Valley Lakelet and Creek. In autumn, the apple orchards add to the picturesque landscape.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families. The dedicated paved trails, such as the Cannon Valley Trail, offer gentler rides. An easy option is the Cannon Valley Trail – Cannon Valley - Welch Access loop from Cannon Falls, which is 20.9 miles long and follows a dedicated paved path along the Cannon River.

The spring, summer, and fall seasons are ideal for road cycling in Goodhue County. Spring brings lush greenery, while summer offers warm weather. Autumn is particularly scenic, with vibrant fall foliage and apple orchards, making it a popular time for rides. The region's natural beauty changes vividly with the seasons.

Many trails offer convenient access. The Cannon Valley Trail has amenities like rest stops and bike repair stations at locations such as Welch Village. Lake Byllesby Park, where the Mill Towns State Trail crosses the Cannon River, provides parking and facilities. Two Rivers Park in Cannon Falls is also easily accessible by bike via the Mill Towns State Trail and offers picnic areas.

Goodhue County's diverse habitats mean you might spot a variety of wildlife. Common sightings include deer, fox, wild turkeys, beavers, partridge, pheasant, and opossum. Near the Mississippi River, you may even catch a glimpse of bald eagles.

The road cycling routes in Goodhue County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging bluffs to scenic river valleys, and the well-maintained dedicated trails like the Cannon Valley Trail. The stunning views of the Mississippi River and the peaceful, green scenery of the back roads are frequently highlighted.

While popular trails like the Cannon Valley Trail can see more activity, exploring the county highways and back roads often provides quieter conditions and gorgeously green scenery. Routes like the County Road 30 – Sogn Valley loop from Urland Lutheran Church offer a chance to experience the region's natural beauty away from busier areas.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Goodhue County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Cannon Valley Trail – Belle Creek Rest Area loop from Red Wing and the Belle Creek Rest Area – Cannon Valley Trail loop from Welch, providing convenient and scenic circular rides.