The Rushford Peterson Valley is a haven for outdoor fun.
On land enjoy biking the trail, off-road biking, hiking, horseback riding, birding, horseshoes, tennis, sand volleyball, softball, golf, and a variety of playgrounds and picnic areas. In the water enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and tubing in the Root River, and the family friendly Rushford Aquatic Center. In the winter, enjoy cross country skiing and snowmobiling.
Magelssen Bluff Park & Hiking
Access 1.5 miles of looping hiking trails from Winona Street in Rushford or drive to the top via Hwy 30 West to Magelssen Dr. for stunning views!
View the City of Rushford Trails and Outdoor Recreation Map
Vinegar Ridge Recreation Area
Vinegar Ridge Recreation Area is 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.
View Map of Vinegar Ridge Recreation Area.
Oak Ridge Forest Management Unit
This is part of the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest, which is located in southeastern Minnesota. This state forest includes bluffs of the Great River Road of the Mississippi River and a number state water trails. Cannon River, Mississippi River, Root River, Whitewater River, and Zumbro River state water trails are within the forest’s boundaries. The DNR lists RJD Memorial Hardwood Forest as among the best places in the state for bird watching, motorized trail riding, horseback riding, and mountain biking.
View Map of Oak Ridge Forest Management Unit.
Snowmobiling
The area is so beautiful to enjoy snowmobiling. View the Valley Crest Trails and other snowmobile maps here.
Bluff Country ATV Club is a family-oriented group promoting safe ATV riding. We meet every 3rd Saturday at the Rushford Legion at 10:00 a.m. Our members hold three events for Youth ATV Safety Training each year: 4th Sat. in April in Plainview, 1st Sat. in May in Rushford, and 3rd Sat. in Sept. in Rushford. We enjoy our local and area trails, and we explore other riding experiences around the country. Check out our website for photos of past club rides and information regarding joining the Bluff Country ATV Club. Find us on Facebook.
A beautiful and well-maintained, mature golf course that opened in 1931 and is nestled in the bluffs of southeastern Minnesota. Ferndale is a 9-hole-Par 36 golf course with cart rentals, practice green and driving range. Relax in the clubhouse or on the surrounding deck with a cold beverage and lunch or dinner from the Bar & Grill menu. Open to the Public.
Join the Hardwood Country Sportsmen’s Club to access the club’s rifle range, trap-shooting range, and archery range in the scenic Root River valley! Events include an annual steak fry in spring and an exclusive banquet in fall.
Since 1969, the Root River Saddle Club continues to promote family fun and interest in all equine activities. From horse showing to trail riding, clinics to days at the movies, we get together to enjoy horses. Check out our Facebook page if you're interested in joining us.
Snowmobile Club responsible for maintaining 79 miles of spectacular bluff country trails! The Southeastern Minnesota Snowmobile Trail Map can be purchased in Rushford at Kwik Trip, The Corner, Stumpy's and the Creamery. All proceeds go for trail maintenance. Find us on Facebook.
Lawn equipment, recreation vehicle sales & service
City of Rushford's outdoor pool, open early June through August.