It was a cold morning; mist rose from the Cannon River and the temperature gage in the car read 44 degrees, driving through Welch last Saturday, Day 4 of the "30 days of biking" in September" would be spent at the Cannon Valley Trail.
A short drive from the Twin Cities, the Cannon Valley Trail is a 19.7 mile trail between Cannon Falls and Red Wing. Parallel to the Cannon River, the trail is the route of the former Chicago Great Western Railroad line that connected Red Wing and Mankato. Nearly half way between Cannon Falls and Red Wing, Welch has a trail access with a picnic area, water, restrooms and parking. In addition, it has a wheel pass pay station where one can pay the daily trail fee of $3.00. It was a perfect spot to start the bike ride today! http://www.cannonvalleytrail.com/
Sun shining, it was a cool and crisp morning, and as the ride began, it was regrettable that one didn't bring winter gloves. The scenery was so breathtaking, the cold was quickly forgotten.
Starting at Welch, one can bike, ski, hike or rollerblade to either Red Wing, Cannon Falls or both. Either way, the terrain is spectacular, and diverse from a prairie setting with corn fields to river bluffs overlooking the Cannon River. A fairly easy ride, the trail is completely paved and in good condition throughout the entire route.
At one end of the trail, Red Wing offers a multitude of restaurants and shops to experience as well as a bike shop with rentals near the trail head. If ones hungry, stop at the Smokey Row Café, home of the Jenny Lind bakery for breakfast or lunch. Full of locals this morning, the "very berry" scone melted in my mouth. If you're looking for a weekend get away, stay at the St. James Hotel for an unique and romantic experience. http://www.redwing.org/
Nearly 20 miles west, historic downtown Cannon Falls offers similar amenities with a "main street" feel. Highly recommended, the old World Deli offers baked goods, sandwiches, soups and salads and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. http://www.cannonfalls.org/.
The Cannon Valley Trail is a beautiful trail, quiet and serene and with fall colors fast approaching, will certainly be a biking destination for many. If you haven't been there, make the quick trek south for either the day or the weekend any time of the year.
After finishing the ride today, an open picnic table at the Welch station was a welcome spot to relax and begin to ponder where day 5 will find one biking... Stay tuned.
Tips from M.A. Get there early as by early afternoon, the trail gets crowded and has minimal parking spots available. Bring dollars to purchase your daily trail pass. If you're there early, it's self service and on the "honor" system. Unfortunately, no pets are allowed. Don't forget your sunscreen. Check out the Red Wing Archaeological Preserve for breathtaking views above the trail, you can bring your bike up to the top.
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