Outdoor Recreation

Barn Bluff

From the top of Barn Bluff towers, over the east end of Minnesota’s Red Wing, you will enjoy the panoramic views that make it a favorite local hiking destination. This prominent landmark on the river can be reached from just off East Fifth Street. Several trails loop through woods to the summit. Most are moderate in their level of difficulty, with stone steps placed at the steepest sections. A leisurely stroll up and back will take about an hour. The impressive bluff has seen climbed by many of Minnesota's Early explorers and visitors, including Henry David Thoreau.

A. P. Anderson Park

This park is located four miles west of downtown Red Wing on U.S. Hwy. 61. Here you will find boundless space to run, play baseball or tennis, and picnic. There are two playgrounds for kids and interesting paths for hiking, including a link to the Cannon Valley Trail from the lower end of the park.

Cannon Valley Trail 

Enjoy nearly 20 miles of trail along the Cannon River between Cannon Falls and Red Wing. Closed to motorized vehicles, the trail is ideal for cross-country skiing in the winter and hiking, biking and in-line skating during the summer. Skiers need a state-issued ski license. Wheel passes are required for each person 18 and older on wheels and are available at trailheads April 1 through October. Call 651-258-4141 for more information. Bicycle rentals are available in Red Wing.

Memorial Park

For a beautiful view of the city of Red Wing tucked into its Mississippi River setting, drive up East Seventh Street to Sorin’s Bluff spring through late fall. The setting is lovely, without a long climb, and you’ll find hiking trails, mountain biking, picnic tables and caves for brave explorers. 

Colvill Park

The city’s most varied park is found east of downtown on U.S. Hwy. 61. Here you can feed popcorn to wild ducks, play tennis, turn the children free on the playgrounds, and enjoy wonderful picnicking along the Mississippi River. Bald eagles may be seen along the river during winter and early spring. Boat launching and marinas are available here. A new municipal aquatic park is currently under construction. 

Hardwood Forest

The Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest offers hiking and horseback trails, trout fishing, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. The best place for first-time access is to turn right at the Hay Creek campground from State Highway 58, about six miles south of Red Wing. Ask at the campground office for a map or call the DNR at 800-652-9747 and ask for the Hay Creek Management Unit Trail Map.