Rochester, MN has been frequently recognized as one the best places to live in the United States, and for good reason. Along with being the home to the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, it has a thriving art scene, historic tours, as well as over 100 parks within the city limits! Wellness is a way of life here, and there’s plenty of natural beauty in this region of Southern Minnesota to explore. Here’s a list of our favorite outdoor activities and adventures to check out in the area.
7 Amazing Outdoor Activities Near Rochester, MN
Explore Silver Lake
As a source of waterfront endless exploration, you can paddleboat, canoe, or even rent a bike and take a scenic cycle along the available trails. Silver Lake is used by the local power plant as a heat sink, and as such, does not freeze in the winter. The warm water has attracted a large number of Canadian geese that stay in the area year-round, as well as opportunities for some great fishing along the shoreline.
Quarry Hill Nature Center
This local gem is just minutes away from downtown Rochester and has over 8 miles of hiking trails that are accessible for any age or abled hiker, with lots of opportunities for birdwatching, fossil hunting, and nature photography. The Exploration Hall allows you to feed fish in their 1,700-gallon tank, and “bee” sure to check out the indoor honeybee hive!
Indian Heights Park Scenic Lookout
From these hidden tranquil woods, you can snag a northwestern view of the city from the lookout point. This dog-friendly, 1.6-kilometer loop hiking trail is located right in the heart of town, which is a great way to burn some calories without needing to leave the city limits.
Salem Glen Vineyard & Winery
This boutique winery was established in 2006 and is located 10 miles southwest of downtown on an old dairy farm in the Zumbro River Valley. With 3,000 vines, their deck offers scenic views of the sunny hills. Salem Glen is known for its craft batches of wine and artisanal charcuterie boards. Recently, they have started producing ciders from the apple trees on the property, so stay tuned for those releases, and please remember to enjoy responsibly.
Sekapp Orchard
This wholesome escape is a must-visit destination in the Fall for some family fun. Just minutes from downtown, Sekapp Orchard is beloved for its lively wagon rides, fresh apples, pumpkins, and berries. The Sekapp Orchard salesroom also has plenty of goods to offer, such as vegetables, pies, jellies, and locally produced honey.
Oxbow Park & Zollman Zoo
If you have little ones, this family-friendly destination is located a short 20 minutes west of the city. Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo have a strong environmental education program on top of offering 620 acres of dedicated land for camping and hiking. Admittance to the Zoo is free, but donations are encouraged and appreciated.
Douglas State Trail
This 12.5-mile scenic blacktop trail goes from Rochester to Pine Island and is easily wheelchair/stroller accessible due to the level nature of the path. You’ll wander through some of the most agriculturally dense fields available in Minnesota. On warmer days, biking, hiking, and horseback riding (you’ll need a horse pass) are available. Once winter comes around, snowmobiling is a popular activity; just make sure you have your snowmobile state trail sticker upon arrival. No other passes or fees are necessary to explore this gorgeous State trail.
If you head out to these fabulous nature-filled activities, enjoy the drive in a Mazda. Stop by Rochester Mazda today and browse our inventory of new and used vehicles that would be perfect to take on an adventure. Happy trails!
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