5 Favorite Hiking Trails and Parks Near Rochester, MN

Are you looking to get out of the house and hit the trail? There are plenty of hiking trails near Rochester, MN, suitable for all experience levels. Whether you hike in the open woods or take a stroll through one of the city’s many unique parks, there is sure to be a great walk just around the corner.

1. Quarry Hill Nature Center

This nature preserve offers plenty of great hiking for all age levels. Located near downtown, the park is open year-round. There are miles of paved and unpaved trails for hikers and cyclists, and in the winter, visitors can rent skis or snowshoes.  

While hiking, make sure to look out for fossils. In prehistoric times, the land here was covered by an ocean. Remains of plants and animals can still be found in the quarry.

2. Indian Heights Park

Another great location right inside the city limits is Indian Heights Park. Here, hikers will find trails that wind throughout protected savanna and prairie lands. Deer and other wildlife can occasionally be seen as the trails pass through the more heavily wooded areas.

A popular trail in the park is the 1-mile long Indian Heights Park Loop. The trail is ranked as easy though there is a bit of elevation gain. Views of both the city and the Zumbro river are highlights of this trail.

3. Oxbow Park

Located about 5 miles west of Rochester, Oxbow Park is a destination. The park is loaded with activities including camping, fishing, and hiking. No trip to Oxbow Park would be complete without a stop at the Zollman Zoo. Native wildlife such as wolves, coyotes, and eagles are some of the creatures who call the zoo home.

The park itself is spread over 600 acres with plenty of well-maintained trails. A great trail for seeing the entire park is the Oxbow Park Loop Trail. This 5-mile trail is ranked as moderate due to mild elevation changes and winds past the river through both forest and prairie.

4. Whitewater State Park

For those who need even more space to roam, we suggest heading east about 25 miles. Here you will find bluffs soaring above the Whitewater River and plenty of trails to hike. The popular Chimney Rock Trail will provide one of the best views of the river below.

History buffs will enjoy climbing to the top of the Elba Fire Tower or visiting one of the other facilities built in the 1930s. Many of these are included on the National Register of Historic Places.

5. Chester Woods Park

Locals looking for a fishing spot close to the city are sure to head to Chester Woods Park which is located near Bear Creek. However, this park has plenty of other options including 12 miles of trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds.

Enjoy the drive to your favorite park in a new or used Ford. Stop by Rochester Ford today and browse our inventory of great models. We’ll get you into the car of your dreams and back on the trail in no time. 

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