Getaways: Blufflands State Trail

Celebrate spring by biking one of the first and most popular of the rails-to-trail bikeways in Minnesota—the 60-mile Blufflands State Trail . Take advantage of the downhill by beginning at the farm town of Harmony. Follow the paved trail into the deep valley of the Root River. Stop for a sandwich in picturesque Fountain. Eat dinner and spend the night in Lanesboro, a burg frozen in time. The next day, continue down the trail through Whalan (with a stop at the Aroma Pie Shop, 507-467-2623), Peterson, Rushford, and as far as Houston, if you’re up for it.

Bike rental (with shuttle) is available in Lanesboro at Little River General Store (507-467-2943). Lanesboro also has several B & Bs, such as James A. Thompson House (507-467-2253). For casual dining overlooking the river, try Riverside on the Root (507-467-3663). Another good bet: Old Village Hall Restaurant and Pub (507-467-2962).