5 Best Hiking Trails Near Winona, MN

Spring is almost here and we’re all clamoring for some great weather and fresh air. What better way to do this than getting outside and going for a walk. Here are some of the best hiking trails in the Winona area.

Sugar Loaf Bluff

Sugar Loaf Bluff is on an 85-foot tall limestone rock formation located on a 400-foot bluff. There are two trails located on this bluff. The north side one is newer and more gradual that is mostly dirt with some sand making it a better hike for all varieties of hikers. It will take about an hour round trip.

The old trail on the south side is a bit more challenging as it’s steeper and rocky. Either way, there is a great view with plenty of photo ops. Sugar Loaf Bluff is arguably the most well-known landmark in all of Winona, a result of mining in the late 1800s. The trailhead is located behind Edina Realty on Lake Boulevard with parking available on the street.

Garvin Heights Park

After driving up the bluff side on a 1 1/2-mile winding road, you’ll have plenty of options to explore at Garvin Heights Park. Along the edge of the bluff, there’s a flight of stairs and a dirt path leading from the lookout to the valley. You can also explore the restored goat prairie while admiring the views of the city. If you’re feeling up to the challenge, you can hike to the bottom of the bluff on a maintained, winding trail. Parking can be found in a small gravel lot on West Lake Boulevard, which is an immediate right after the intersection with Highway 61.

Prairie Island Nature Trail

Looking for something a little more low-key and leisurely? Come check out the Prairie Island Nature Trail. The trail is nice, level, 1 1/2-mile long loop through wooded lowlands offering great opportunities to spot eagles, deer, hawks, and migratory birds that call this area home. This trail is located near the deer park.

Great River Bluffs State Park

Great River Bluffs State Park overlooks the Mississippi River and offers many breathtaking views. The trails are relatively easy and mostly level. They meander through a peaceful forest that takes you to the various overlooks with the amazing views, including King’s Bluff and Queen’s Bluff. The trails also cover prairie areas. There are picnic areas and a camping area as well. It’s located at 43605 Kipp Drive.

Bluffside Park

Bluffside Park offers a wooded terrain with scenic overlooks and a good diversity of trails. It’s also home to the Holzinger Trail System. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll along the base or you want to amp it up a bit and hike up to the top of the summit, Bluffside Park is sure to provide some fun. It’s located right in Winona at 207 Lafayette St.

Winona is a beautiful part of the country with its awe-inspiring bluffs and beautiful views of the Mississippi River. What better way to take in the gorgeous scenery than getting out and exploring the many trails in and around Winona? See you on the trails.