Greater Mankato Convention and Visitors Bureau

507.385.6660   800.657.4733
Contact Us



Your Guide to Biking & Hiking in Greater Mankato

 

Share your pictures with us!

We're always on the lookout for photos of people enjoying Greater Mankato's trails. Click here for more info!

 

Trails

Some of the BEST TRAILS IN THE STATE

Greater Mankato's trail system offers a spectacular scenic view of areas that may not always be explored.  Trail users will follow streams and cross upland and wetland areas, where one may see wildlife including blue birds, woodpeckers, bald eagles, ducks, geese and many others.  The trails provide scenic and historical views along with access and visibility to industries and unique Greater Mankato landmarks such as the river, foundry and quarries.

 

Sakatah State Trail


Sakatah Singing Hills Trail


Follow 39 miles of abandoned railroad grade from Mankato (the trail on Lime Valley Road, just past the intersection of Riverfront Drive and Hwy. 14) to Faribault. The blacktopped trail meanders through rich farmland and small towns and follows several lakes, including Madison and Cannon, where there are swimming beaches. There are parks and rest stops in communities every few miles. The trail, which intersects Sakatah State Park, is open for biking, hiking, in-line skating and cross country skiing.

Red Jacket Trail


Red Jacket Bike Trail


The Red Jacket Trail begins at Rasmussen Park in Mankato and travels about 13 miles (six of which are paved) through open countryside, beside the Minnesota River and over three railroad trestles (including its namesake, the 550-foot-long Red Jacket) to Rapidan. Several wooden bridges and a landmark tunnel under the new southern bypass add charm to the trail.

Minnesota River Trail


Minnesota River Trail

The Minnesota River trail is an important link that connects to the Sakatah State trail. The paved trail offers views of the Minnesota River, wild flowers and limestone cliffs. Along the way view Mankato's newest hot spot-Riverfront Park. It is  a venue for a variety of events and festivals for people to enjoy. the Grand Lawn, amphitheater, canoe landing, trail head building, playground and art are just some of the items to be found at Riverfront Park.


Mount Kato

Before the snow flies and after it melts again, Mount Kato turns its attention to mountain biking. Slightly more than seven miles of mountain-bike trails are accessible during the non-winter months; call 507.625.3363 for more information.

See what KAAL-TV has to say about Mount Kato.


Seven Mile Creek Trail

Just three miles north of Mankato on Hwy. 169, you'll find seven miles of hiking trails that cover 600 acres of wooded park. Picnic shelters and grills are scattered throughout the park and along the creek.