Trails

No matter if you prefer running or cycling, Owatonna offers an abundance of trails to keep you exploring for days. For passionate mountain bikers, the newly developed trail system promises an exhilarating ride. Take on the multi-use Buxton and Muckle trails along the scenic Straight River, passing through several picturesque parks across the city.

CROSS COUNTRY SKIING
Park & Recreation Office: 540 West Hills Circle | Phone: 507-444-4321

www.ci.owatonna.mn.us

The Owatonna Parks and Recreation Department takes care of and grooms cross-country ski trails from mid-December to mid-February, depending on weather and snow conditions. Skiers can enjoy more than 11 miles of trails, beginning at Morehouse Park and winding through Kaplan’s Woods Parkway, extending over 8 miles into the County Club Golf Course. An additional 2 miles of trails are available at Brooktree Golf Course.

KAPLAN’S WOODS PARKWAY & LAKE KOHLMIER
Location: 225 Acres | 18th Street SW/Mosher Avenue

www.ci.owatonna.mn.us

Kaplan’s Woods Parkway is one of the city’s most beloved outdoor recreation areas, spanning 225 acres for hiking, biking, jogging, in-line skating, and cross-country skiing. Within this picturesque parkway, Lake Kohlmier features a beach for swimming, canoeing, and fishing docks. The parkway boasts over 6 miles of hiking and cross-country skiing trails, along with nearly 2 miles of hard-surfaced, wheelchair-accessible paths. Its popularity earned it a spot as one of 10 featured fall hikes in Explore Minnesota’s 2018 Hike Campaign. Restrooms and facilities are available at Morehouse Park, and trail maps can be found along the route. Thrill-seeking mountain bikers will love the newly developed trail system, designed to challenge and excite. For all-season outdoor gear, visit Straight River Sports & Fitness.

LAKE KOHLMIER Rental & Concessions
Phone: 507-774-7372

www.ci.owatonna.mn.us

From May 27 to August 20, 2023, Lake Kohlmier Beach will be open for aquatic and trail equipment rentals, as well as concessions. The lake will be stocked with life jackets in adult, child, and infant sizes, all of which are included and required with every aquatic rental.

Trail Equipment Available: Tandem Bike, Electric Assist Trike, and Trail-A-Bike.

LEO RUDOLPH NATURE RESERVE
Location: 57 Acres | Young Drive, Jeffrey Drive or Lemond Road

www.ci.owatonna.mn.us

In 1987, the City acquired this land from the State of Minnesota for just $1.00. City staff envisioned restoring the area to its natural prairie state, creating a vibrant reserve featuring a two-acre pond and a diverse array of prairie grasses and wildflowers. Visitors can enjoy a hiking and cross-country ski trail, as well as a designated picnic site.

SNOWMOBILING
www.dnr.state.mn.us/snowmobiling

The Steele County Trail System features 175 miles of well-groomed snowmobile trails, seamlessly connecting to five neighboring counties. For a scenic winter ride through the woods, explore the trails at Rice Lake State Park. To plan your adventure, visit the Minnesota DNR website for a trail map or pick up a complimentary Snowmobile Trail Map at the Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism before hitting the trails.

STEELE COUNTY, BUXTON & MUCKLE TRAILS
Distances: 175 miles | 3 miles | 1.4 miles

www.ci.owatonna.mn.us

Owatonna’s multi-use trail system offers a range of recreational opportunities for both residents and visitors. The Muckle Trail follows the Straight River through the heart of the city, linking Morehouse Park to the Buxton Trail. Starting at North Street, the Buxton Trail runs alongside Maple Creek, meandering through Dartts Park, Brooktree Golf Course, and Mineral Springs Park before reaching the city’s eastern edge.