root river

I liked the scenery and the section of trail they have just re-done. I disliked some of the bumpier sections, but heard that will be re-done in 2015.

Very quite little town. Very relaxing. Bike trails are pretty. There are place to eat and places to shop.

Nice paved trails. Easy rides. Did 10 miles each way from Whalen, in the two days. Also enjoyed Taste of the Trail on Saturday, lots of tasty treats!

It was fall and scenic in a river valley with cliffs on both sides. Trail is blacktop and much of it recently paved. Saw an eagle in the trees on an early morning ride. Can't beat it

With no kayaking experience, we were eager yet scared to try kayaking in the Root River. River Rats Outfitters in Lanesboro rented everything we needed at reasonable rates, gave us tips and the courage to try this new adventure. After leaving our vehicle at the downstream landing, we were transported upstream where we were given last instructions and pointers. It was a great experience and a bit strenuous for the normally desk-bound adventurers. The river in mid-September is easy to navigate with beautiful scenery and wildlife. There were riffles and some rapids, enough to make the 4 hour trip exciting.

The Root River Biking trail was paved and in quite good condition, though recent rains brought down leaves and small branches. Views were peaceful and bucolic. We saw the river winding near the trail, 2 deer, a flock of turkeys, fields of corn and beans, barns and cows, and a variety of small critters. Small towns offered places to stop and refresh. Wildflowers were abundant, and after 50 miles, I began to see masses of black-eyed susans along the route as cheerleaders. Just what we needed to complete the course.

It's a beautiful meandering river with some light rapids, although we encountered one dangerous area when we overshot our landing, which was in the middle of a rapids. We got stuck sideways in a strong current on a tree that had fallen in the river. A canoe was submerged under the tree, caught there in the current. We were concerned that would happen to us, but we were able to get back into the main flow of the river by moving very cautiously. Whew! The take-out point was not marked, and we missed it. Canoeists beware!

Maybe it was because we were located on the back upstairs deck but service was really slow, had pulled pork sandwich which was mediocre. It was a nice place to sit and watch the water.

The bike trail along the river is beautiful. The only part I like more is kayaking the river. If the water is high, be extremely careful. I would recommend a guide or staying off the river unless you are an experienced whitewater paddler. The river is so scenic. It's one of my favorite places to paddle and pedal. Always wear your personal flotation device. Each visit is accompanied by a stop at Aroma Pies in Whalan. They make the best pie!

The paved trails were in great condition. The trailheads were delightful with ample parking and services. The scenic area was outstanding. Don't miss this "driftless" area of SE Minnesota.

Loved the time we spent kayaking down the river. There are several rapids so it keeps you on your toes but it was fun and not dangerous. Ken at River Rats gave us great tips for navigating the river. Fun way to spend a couple hours.

A little bit of everything-scenery, biking, tubing, kayaking, neat little towns nestled along the way.

Root River Outfitters right in the heart of Lanesboro were excellent both last and this year. Their canoes, kayaks and bikes are in decent shape, and the staff has been helpful.This weekend at 10am on Saturday, the staff tried to warn us that the weather was coming in and suggested we try later. We thought, well, what's a little rain, and pressed on. There was another family with children also going. After dropping our cars off in Whalen, we headed back to Lanesboro to the put in spot. The young college kid driver saw in the rear view mirror that the mom was getting nervous as the rain pounded harder and kindly offered, "You know, I'd be glad to drop you back at the shop, and you could try later." She quickly encouraged her husband to take him up on the offer, which they did, but we stupidly pressed on. When we got to the put in spot, it began to lightning, and we too turned back. We waited out the storm back in Lanesboro, and then they took us out again later in the afternoon after it cleared.Good on them for trying to talk us out of it in the first place, and then accommodating 2 trips out for us. We enjoyed the afternoon kayaking, and later a bike ride to Whalen as well. Gorgeous.

We biked both directions (west and east) from Lanesboro, and the river is a nice, scenic waterway. We saw eagles, turkeys, deer, bluebirds, and more.

We visited on Saturday, July 19, 2014.Cute small town of Lanesboro along the Root River. There is a waterfall and the river then passes a city park. It is quite beautiful.Very lovely!