Top 10 Natural Monuments in Goodhue County
Best natural monuments in Goodhue County are characterized by their diverse natural features, including prominent bluffs overlooking the Mississippi and Cannon Rivers. The landscape encompasses hardwood forests, prairies, and wetlands, offering varied ecosystems. Goodhue County is home to several Scientific and Natural Areas, which protect rare natural features and provide opportunities to observe undisturbed communities. Rolling hills and river valleys further define the region's natural appeal.
Best natural monuments in Goodhue County
- The most popular natural monuments is Mississippi River…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
River Terrace Prairie Scientific and Natural Area
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
He Mni Can / Barn Bluff
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Sandstone cliffs
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Cannon River Turtle Preserve State Natural Area
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Spring Creek Prairie SNA Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Blufftop view of Pleasant Valley Lakelet and Creek
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Mississippi River View from Rattlesnake Bluff
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
View of Rattlesnake Bluff from below
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
There are several places to stop and admire the cliffs on the campground side of the lake.
0
0
Great views, first time hiking here in the summer, a lot of leaf cover which kept it feeling cool, but also cut down on being able to see a long ways at all points of the hike. Now there were specific areas you could see out from.
1
0
A nice DNR loop that you can hike or mountain bike. It's best either in the spring or the late fall/winter as the summer gets really tall grasses at the top of the loop and it can be hard to follow the trail.
2
0
The River Terrace Prairie Scientific and Natural Area (SNA) is a protected landscape located near Cannon Falls, Minnesota. The main purpose of Scientific and Natural Areas is to conserve rare natural features and native plant communities, This "dry sand-gravel prairie" sits on terraces left by glacial meltwater at the end of the last Ice Age. It is particularly valued for supporting one of the largest known populations of Kittentails (Besseya bullii), a threatened plant species in Minnesota. The terrain features steep topography, including goat prairies and floodplain forests along the Cannon River, all contributing to its ecological significance. The prairie is a premier destination for observing spring wildflowers. In April, its hillsides are often blanketed in Pasque flowers, followed later by Prairie Smoke, Great-flowered Penstemon, Silky Aster, and even Brittle Prickly Pear Cactus. The area’s diverse habitats attract a range of wildlife, particularly birds such as the Clay-colored Sparrow, Eastern Kingbird, and Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, as well as reptiles like the Bullsnake. There are no maintained trails within the SNA, so hiking involves traversing rough footpaths and open vegetation, with terrain that can be steep and uneven. No restrooms or amenities are available. The paved Cannon Valley Trail, a popular bike route, runs near the base of the unit, but the SNA itself covers mostly upland prairie. To protect the fragile ecosystem, rules at River Terrace Prairie SNA are strict: activities like camping, campfires, geocaching, organized athletics, and gathering plants or rocks are not allowed. Pets, particularly dogs, are generally prohibited to prevent disturbance to wildlife and sensitive plants.
0
0
a little known Minnesota SNA that often delivers great sightings of turtles soaking up the sun at this very spot. I always make a point to slow down and dismount here for a break and also look for turtles.
0
0
As true for all Minnesota Scientific and Natural Areas, no officially maintained hiking trails exist. Still, unofficial, natural surface trails lead to several beautiful scenic overlooks.
0
0
Frontenac is already known for awe-inspiring blufftop views of Lake Pepin. But, this addition at the southwest border brings a new perspective with bluffs overlooking the Pleasant Valley Lakelet and Creek in one direction and the scenic hills of the park entrance in the other. Here is a link to the Minnesota Council Parks and Trails website that details the acquisition process: https://parksandtrails.org/major-land-project-completed-for-frontenac/#:~:text=Our%20largest%20land%20project%20in%20over%20ten,border%20brings%20a%20new%20perspective%20with%20bluffs.
1
0
Cool view from an easy walk
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some prominent geological features to explore in Goodhue County?
Goodhue County is characterized by its dramatic bluffs along the Mississippi and Cannon Rivers. Notable geological features include He Mni Can / Barn Bluff, which offers elevated perspectives of the Mississippi River, and the Sandstone cliffs. The region also features rolling hills and diverse forest types.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments in Goodhue County?
Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. The Mississippi River View from Rattlesnake Bluff offers an easy walk to a great viewpoint. Another accessible spot is the Viewpoint in Memorial Park, Red Wing, which provides spectacular views and is easily reached by car.
What kind of wildlife can I spot in Goodhue County's natural areas?
Goodhue County's diverse ecosystems, including forests, prairies, and wetlands, support various wildlife. Frontenac State Park is a prime location for birdwatching, situated within a major migratory flyway. The Cannon River Turtle Preserve State Natural Area is specifically known for sightings of turtles.
What are the best places for hiking among the natural monuments?
For hiking, He Mni Can / Barn Bluff is a popular choice, offering sweeping views after a hike to the top. Frontenac State Park also provides extensive hiking trails through varied terrain. You can find more hiking options, including easy trails like the Bluffside Trail and the He Mni Can / Barn Bluff loop, in the Easy hikes in Goodhue County guide.
How long does it take to hike He Mni Can / Barn Bluff?
A hike to the top of He Mni Can / Barn Bluff can vary depending on your pace and chosen route, but an easy loop trail around the bluff is approximately 3.8 km (2.4 miles) long. It's a popular spot for sightseeing and photography, so allow time to enjoy the views.
What is the best time of year to visit Goodhue County's natural monuments?
The natural monuments in Goodhue County offer beauty throughout the year. Spring and fall are particularly scenic for birdwatching during migration seasons at Frontenac State Park, and the Cannon Valley Trail is beautiful with its canopy of trees, especially in the fall. Summer is ideal for general outdoor activities, while winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on some trails.
Are there any protected natural areas or 'hidden gems' in Goodhue County?
Goodhue County is home to several Scientific and Natural Areas (SNAs) dedicated to preserving rare natural features. These include the Cannon River Turtle Preserve State Natural Area and the Spring Creek Prairie Scientific and Natural Area. These offer unique opportunities to observe undisturbed natural communities and are less frequented than more prominent sites.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
Beyond hiking, Goodhue County offers excellent opportunities for cycling. The Cannon Valley Trail, a 20-mile paved path, is ideal for cycling, walking, and running, connecting Cannon Falls, Welch, and Red Wing. You can find various cycling routes in the Cycling in Goodhue County and Road Cycling Routes in Goodhue County guides.
What historical significance do some natural monuments in Goodhue County hold?
He Mni Can / Barn Bluff is a significant historical site, sacred to the Dakota people and used as a visual reference by 19th-century explorers. The area around Lake Byllesby Dam also holds historical interest as the former site of natural falls known as Big Falls, adding to its appeal.
Where can I find unique viewpoints of the Mississippi River?
For breathtaking views of the Mississippi River, visit Mississippi River View from Rattlesnake Bluff, which offers a great perspective of the valley. He Mni Can / Barn Bluff also provides sweeping, dramatic views of the river and the city of Red Wing.
What makes Frontenac State Park a notable natural area in Goodhue County?
Frontenac State Park is renowned for its high bluffs along Lake Pepin, part of the Mississippi River, offering breathtaking panoramic views. It features diverse ecosystems including hardwood forests, prairies, and wetlands, and is a prime location for birdwatching due to its position in a major migratory flyway. The park offers extensive hiking trails and camping.
Are there any natural monuments that are particularly good for photography?
Many of Goodhue County's natural monuments offer excellent photographic opportunities. The panoramic views from He Mni Can / Barn Bluff and the Mississippi River View from Rattlesnake Bluff are particularly popular for capturing the scenic river valley and bluffs.
Most popular routes in Goodhue County
Most popular attractions in Goodhue County
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Find even more amazing natural monuments in Goodhue County by checking out the top Highlights region by region:
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones in Goodhue County:
