Oct 6, 2023

Rochester, MN is an easy drive to many destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. If you are looking for active weekend getaways to try out your 2023 Ford Explorer from Rochester Ford, there are fun ideas in nearly every direction. In fact, your greatest challenge may be narrowing down your list.

3 Fun Weekend Getaways in Driving Distance of Rochester, MN

Go Hiking Around Winona

Winona is home to some amazing hiking trails. Perhaps the most famous is Sugarloaf Bluff. A moderate challenge, it is an out-and-back trail that overlooks the city of Winona and the Mississippi River. If you are looking for something longer than Sugarloaf, check out Perrot State Park across the border in Wisconsin.

For a physically demanding hike that offers a tremendous payoff when you reach the top, check out John Latsch State Park. The trail that summits Mount Charity is only around 1/2 mile long, but you’ll climb over 600 stairs to reach the top. None of these hikes are particularly long, and if you are somewhat active, hitting all three locations in your rugged Ford Explorer over a single weekend can be a fun challenge.

Visit Eau Claire, WI

At first glance, Mount Simon Park in Eau Claire is your typical city park. It has a nine-hole disc golf course, playground, baseball fields and volleyball courts, and pavilions that can be rented. There are a few things that set Mount Simon Park apart. The boat landing offers a fun way to spend some time, but the not to be missed feature of Mount Simon Park is the hike to the top of Mount Simon, also known as “the top of the world.” The view is amazing and worth the effort.

Take a Hot-Air Balloon Ride

If you are looking for a unique way to spend some time, consider a hot-air balloon ride. The area around Rochester is home to many hot-air balloon providers. Companies such as Lesmeister Balloon Company provide options for family fun or romantic champagne flights. If you are looking for a way to create a lasting memory, taking your loved one up in a hot-air balloon certainly fits the bill.

As you can see, Rochester sits in the middle of some amazing weekend getaway options. Whether you are looking to break in your new ride with an outdoor adventure or something a little more relaxed, you have plenty to choose from within a short driving distance. When you’re making plans for the upcoming weeks, make time to come see us here at Rochester Ford and check out our new inventory.