Each of Minnesota’s distinct regions has a beauty all its own. In the Arrowhead, vast forests, rugged cliffs, and pristine lakes dominate the landscape. In the southwest, flat prairies stretch as far as the eye can see. And in the southeast, rolling hills give way to lovely river valleys. It is here that you’ll discover some of Minnesota’s most beautiful places. In particular, the Cannon Valley Trail is a gorgeous trek through southern Minnesota. Entering the trail is like stepping into a fairytale. Every mile is beautiful, and it’s well worth the effort to visit. Here’s what you need to know:

The Cannon Valley Trail is a 20-mile trail between Cannon Falls and Red Wing, Minnesota. There is also an access point in Welch, about midway between the other two towns.
rockyjoe/TripAdvisor
A former railroad line, the Cannon Valley Trail was converted to the paved path it is today starting in the 1980s. It was finished in 1992 and is now a popular trail for hikers, cyclists, and inline skaters.
Cannon Valley Trail/Facebook
Much of the Cannon Valley Trail follows along the beautiful Cannon River. Lined with trees, it will feel like you're traveling through a tunnel of green.
Cannon Valley Trail/Facebookk

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No one will blame you if you stop along the way to admire the view. The Cannon River Valley is a gorgeous region of rolling hills covered in lush green trees. It's truly like stepping into a fairytale.
Stephanie Hayes/AllTrails
There are even a few stopping points along the way, like this bench overlooking a section of wide-open field. The prairies are often filled with native wildflowers. Along with the benches, restrooms along the trail will keep you comfortable.
Cannon Valley Trail/TripAdvisor
Other lovely places to admire the view include a charming wooden bridge. From it, you can look downriver for a lovely view.
Cannon Valley Trail/TripAdvisor
You might even spot some animals as you travel! This is rich Minnesota farmland, so you never know if you'll see cows, goats, or other livestock.
Cannon Valley Trail/TripAdvisor

All in all, the Cannon Valley Trail is a gorgeous trek that is filled with beautiful sights, lovely native plants, and even animals. If you’re up for a fairytale trip through one of Minnesota’s most scenic areas, plan your trek down the Cannon Valley Trail. For more information, check out the trail’s website. And for another fairytale spot in Minnesota, take a look at our previous article about the one place in the state that looks like something from Middle Earth.

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Cannon Valley Trail, Cannon Falls, MN, USA