The best walks and hikes in Rice County

Rice County offers a selection of over 10 hiking routes, catering to various preferences. Most of these, around 11, are considered easy, while 3 are moderate in difficulty.

Yes, Rice County has many easy trails. For instance, the Carlton Arboretum Trail loop — Carlton College is an easy 4.7-mile (7.5 km) route that explores the natural areas around Carlton College. Another easy option is the Playgrounds and picnic area – Nerstrand Big Woods State Park sign loop from Nerstrand, a 3.7-mile (6.0 km) trail through woodlands.

Hiking in Rice County features a diverse mix of woodlands, river valleys, and state parks. Trails often follow waterways like the Cannon River or wind through established natural areas such as Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, offering gentle hills and forested sections.

Yes, you can find waterfalls along some trails. Hidden Falls is a notable waterfall in the area, and the Playgrounds and picnic area – Hidden Falls loop from Hidden Falls is a moderate 5.4-mile (8.7 km) path that features varied terrain around it. You can also find River Bend Nature Center Falls.

Many of Rice County's trails are suitable for families, especially the 11 easy routes. The arboretum paths and state park woodlands generally offer accessible terrain. For example, the Carlton Arboretum Trail loop is an easy option.

The trails in Rice County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain and the natural beauty of the river valleys and state park woodlands.

Yes, several routes in Rice County are circular. The Carlton Arboretum Trail loop — Carlton College is a popular easy loop. Another option is the Playgrounds and picnic area – Hidden Falls loop from Hidden Falls, which is a moderate circular path.

Absolutely. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park is a prominent hiking destination in Rice County. You can explore routes like the Playgrounds and picnic area – Nerstrand Big Woods State Park sign loop from Nerstrand, which takes you through its woodlands.

Yes, some trails offer proximity to lakes. For example, the Sakatah Lake State Park loop from Waterville is a moderate 5.2-mile (8.4 km) route that provides access to the lake area. You can also find highlights like Cannon Lake and The Heron Pond.

Beyond waterfalls, Rice County features other natural monuments. Keep an eye out for the Cannon River Trout Lily Scientific and Natural Area, The Confluence of the Straight and Cannon Rivers, and Big Rock.

For those seeking a bit more challenge, Rice County offers moderate trails. The Playgrounds and picnic area – Hidden Falls loop from Hidden Falls is a 5.4-mile (8.7 km) moderate path with varied terrain. Another moderate option is the Sakatah Lake State Park loop from Waterville.