Barn Bluff Hike in Red Wing, Minnesota

A drive along the Mississippi River in Minnesota treats you to breathtaking views of the mighty river picturesque bluffs. While in Red Wing, we hiked up one of these bluffs and enjoyed a vigorous hike rewarded with forest views and stunning perspectives of the Mississippi River and Red Wing.

We were surprised to find quite a variety of paths around and up to the top of the bluff. The first one we explored took us close to the outcropping. The trail is heavily wooded and traverses uneven terrain. Our hike on this trail provided us with peaceful exercise to start the day.

Some side trails coming off of our first trail were closed, so we doubled back to the trailhead and embarked on another trail. This would take us to a trail to the summit where there are two overlooks.

From the summit, we had quite the view of Red Wing itself with the city unfolding before us.

We headed to the Eastern Scenic Overlook with an incredible view of the Mississippi River. Residents once climbed Barn Bluff on the lookout for the first steamboat of the season. Henry David Thoreau climbed the bluff to admire the views. From the mid 1800's through 1908, stone from the bluff was used for producing lime, as building material and for the railroad.

Climbing Barn Bluff is a bit of a work out, but it is well worth it. A visit to the bluff is a great slice of Red Wing history while enjoying nature. Not to be missed!