EXPLORE
SOUTHEAST MINNESOTA
Outback Ranch Venue
A vintage barn wedding venue based in Houston, Minnesota. This rustic and romantic ranch is perfect for couples who love the outdoors. Surrounded by horses and hiking trails, it serves as a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable country wedding venue.
International Owl Center
The International Owl Center is working to make the world a better place for owls through education and research. It is the only all-owl education center in the United States.
Root River State Trail
Perfect for biking, hiking, cross-country skiing, or in-line skating. The trail offers spectacular scenery and runs from the Houston Nature Center, providing a great outdoor experience.
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
This state park offers a blend of historical and natural exploration. Visit the 19th-century Forestville village, go trout fishing, or explore the state's longest cave with its stunning underground formations
National Eagle Center
Located on the Mississippi River in Wabasha, this center is dedicated to the education and preservation of eagles. Visitors can see live eagles up close and learn about these majestic birds through interactive exhibits
Niagara Cave
Explore one of the top-rated caves in the U.S. This unique underground experience includes a 60-foot waterfall, stalactites, stalagmites, and fossils that are over 450 million years old
Great River Bluffs State Park
Offering stunning views of the Mississippi River Valley, this park is ideal for hiking, bird watching, and nature photography. The diverse landscape provides a rich habitat for a variety of wildlife
Attractions
Dining
Hunting and Fishing
You won’t be disappointed by all the Hunting and Fishing opportunities.
Hunters will find an abundance of small and large game including grouse, pheasants, turkeys and deer in Southeastern Minnesota. The area includes the Rushford Sand Barrens Scientific and Natural Area, a few Wildlife Management Areas and numerous State Forest lands, on which hunters are welcome. The area also includes numerous cold water streams for trout, several that are Aquatic Management Areas, and the Root River has an abundance of small mouth bass, channel catfish, rock bass, sunfish, crappies, and rough fish.
Recreation
The Root River State Trail
The Root River State Trail, a paved, 42-mile state trail, begins in Fountain and runs through the quaint and picturesque rural communities of Lanesboro, Whalan, Peterson, Rushford and Houston. Constructed on an abandoned railroad, the trail is generally level and wheelchair accessible. Enjoy biking, walking, in-line skating, cross country skiing on the trail.
View the Trail Map | Trail Information
The Root River
The Root River represents the timeless scenic and historic qualities characteristic of southeastern Minnesota. The river has gentle to moderate flow with a few riffles, although water level can vary substantially with rainfall. Many quaint towns along the river offer historical sights, services, and hospitality, making it ideal for a family day trip.
Enjoy canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and fishing on the Root River.
More Information
Magelssen Bluff Park
Rushford’s crown jewel is Magelssen Bluff Park, soaring above the valley floor and bearing the city name in stone anchored on its south slope. Featuring prominent limestone outcroppings and three scenic overlooks, the bluff offers an open panorama of the area in several miles. The winding road traversing the hillside to the summit invites visitors to tour the recently developed hiking trails, several picnic areas, long-standing apple trees, and the Rushford Burr Oak tree. The massive, stout-limbed tree is estimated to be nearly 200 years old and is one of the largest trees in Minnesota.
Vinegar Ridge Recreation Area
Located along the 42-mile multiple-use paved Root River State Trail and six miles of horseback riding trails. Visitors can also canoe or kayak for a short trip along the Root River State Water Trail within the recreational area.
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Ferndale Country Club
23239 MN-16, Rushford, MN
(507) 864-7626
Ranked as one of the top 9 hole courses in the state, Ferndale rests alongside historic bluff country scenic byway State Highway 16, nestled in the midst of the bluffs of southeastern Minnesota. The course is challenging to play, the scenery is breathtaking, and the people are “Minnesota Nice.”
Valley High Golf Club
9203 Mound Prairie Drive, Houston, MN
(507) 894-4444
www.valleyhighgolfclub.com
Valley High Golf Club is an 18-hole public course. Amenities include a pro shop, 55 carts available for large outings and tournaments, driving range, practice putting green, restaurant and banquet facilities.
Snowmobiling
There are a variety of groomed snowmobile trails in the area. Enjoy convenient parking with access to your room right from the parking area.
Visit Interactive Snowmobile Trails Map for more information.
Nordic Lanes & Lounge
403 South Mill Street, Rushford MN
(507) 864-7799
Website
Cushon's Peak Campground
Camping along the Root River Bike Trail near Houston, Minnesota
Judy & Tom Vix
18696 State Highway 16
Houston, MN 55943
(507)896-7325
Website
Services
Churches
- Rushford Lutheran Church
- St. Joseph’s Catholic Church – Rushford
- Emmanuel Episcopal Church – Rushford
- St Mark’s Lutheran Church – Rushford
- Root River Community Church – Rushford
- Destiny Life Church- Rushford
- Saint John Lutheran Church – Rushford
- Cross of Christ Lutheran Church – Houston
- St Mary’s Catholic Church – Houston
- Houston Baptist Church
- Looney Valley Lutheran Church – Houston
- Money Creek United Methodist – Houston
Hours
Our staff is available to call or text or email any time. If we don't answer right away we will get back to you as soon as possible.