Minnesota Hiking Club #30 - Great River Bluffs State Park

 

Minnesota Hiking Club

#30 - Great River Bluffs State Park

Date Hiked: March 4th, 2025

Other Hikes That Day: None

Wanderloon Ranking System Score: 3.33

For once, it wasn't the cold or snow that led me to have a comparatively unique experience of a Hiking Club trail. 

There was only one park left in the entire southeast to do, mostly because of its W-coding and the others in proximity not being such. But I was excited to give this one the time and focus it deserved, because the river bluffs remind me so much of the Appalachian mountains where I grew up. I understand they are different geological landscapes and the latter is tremendously ancient, but they give me similar vibes. In a state that can be socially isolating to those who aren't from here, feeling some vague connection to even a concept of "home" is endearing. 

Sure wish I could've seen it though!

The Great River Bluffs State Park Hiking Club trail is shaped like a fancy signature with a heart in the middle. Where most are loops, this is a down-and-back with a small heart loop, and that is quite unique. Rather than climbing the bluffs, like many trails in the surrounding Winona area, this one starts and finishes atop them, leaving the far point for the views of the river valley to inspire the trip back.

Sure wish I could've seen it though!

Unpleasant weather was imminent, and I wanted to get something in before the skies unleashed. While I didn't get any rain, US-52 on the trip home was a monsoon of meteorological punishment for daring to have hope that spring was approaching. Being already on the bluffs was merciful, because the trek was so muddy that I'd be a Moon that descended rapidly to hear the song of a flute. This way I only slid around the foggy barrow-downs and hoped I didn't have to fight a wight. 

When the trail reaches the bluffs overlook, the trees clear, and it feels like summiting a great peak with a flat top, minus the whole climbing part. In this case, I moved from the densely foggy woods to the Misty Mountain Hop, as instead of fog in a bunch of trees, there was open space with nothing but fog filling it in! Diversity of landscapes for the win!

This park is really cool, and while I wish in a general sense that we could've gotten some Manitou-esque elevation change, the slip factor would've made that a muddy nightmare that no laundry machine could wash away. The views, according to the photos on AllTrails, are as spectacular as advertised. Fortunately for me, the fog and inclement weather at least led to a quiet stroll of solitude through a place I'm sure is hopping all throughout the summer, as well it should be! 

My avoidance of people is not their fault... unless they have bluetooth speakers with no headphones. Then, all bets are off and my death stare is genuine. This Hiking Club trail lives up to its reputation and anyone searching for scenic overlooks will enjoy it. 

Sure wish I could've seen it though!