The Red Cedar State Trail is one of Menomonie’s many greatest natural resources. It provides an outlet for tourists and community members to enjoy nature while only traveling a short distance from the Historic Downtown. Riverside Park, located at the Red Cedar State Trail Head, serves as a meeting place, informational hub, picnic area, and fishing spot. The Red Cedar State Trail is open to walkers, bikers, cross-country skiers, and snowshoeing. A state trail pass is required for bicycling and cross-country skiing, these can be bought online, at the trail, or at the Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center.
This 14.5 mile trail skirts along the steep walls of the Red Cedar Valley from Menomonie to its connection with the Chippewa River State Trail. Along its route, the trail passes through the communities of Irvington and Downsville as well as the Dunnville State Wildlife Area. The trail sweeps over wild prairies, rustic bridges, marshland bottoms, natural waterfalls, forests and farmlands, including sandstone bluffs and other unique rock formations. Bald eagles are frequently sighted on this trail and can be found perched on the majestic white pines along this beautiful waterway.
Did we mention this is an all-season trail too? In the winter, this trail becomes a stunning, frosty wonderland for cross country-skiing and snowshoeing. The trail is groomed for both classic Nordic skiing and skate skiing to accommodate both beginners and seasoned skiers. During skiing season, please do not walk, hike, bike, or snowshoe on the 7 miles of groomed trails from Menomonie to Downsville. You may bike, walk, hike on the trail from Downsville to Chippewa River State Trail.
The Red Cedar State Trail offers a scenic way to stay active and healthy, all year round.
