Since trains required fairly level beds with a grade of less than three percent, the bike trails that have replaced the train tracks offer relatively easygoing biking. Rest areas along the trails generally include a picnic area, drinking water, and toilets. Between Cannon Falls and Red Wing, about 45 mi. S of the Twin Cities. The fairly level trail closely follows the Cannon River, winding through a changing landscape of steep wooded slopes, farmland, hardwood forests, pastures and marshland.
Wildflowers bloom along the trail and a variety of songbirds flit overhead.
The tiny village of Welch, located midway on the trail, makes a good rest stop. Trail information boards are provided at access points. Between Rochester and Pine Island, about 65 mi. S of the Twin Cities. The trail features two separate treadways, one for cycling and one for horseback riding.