Midway Between Minneapolis and Rochester Lies Minnesota’s Charming Town Brimming with Exciting Recreation

The great outdoors is always around the corner in the North Star State — whether it’s summer vacations by Minnesota’s Kabetogama Lake or following the beautiful trails of the timeless Northfield. Even when you find yourself in a little city like Cannon Falls, you get to have field days in the park, catch some rays by the lake, and ride high on the paths. Located in Southeast Minnesota, this quaint destination offers all things recreation, be it hiking, biking, kayaking, golfing, and everything in between. Cannon Falls was named after the waterfall and river winding through the city, both of which provide a much-needed retreat after engaging in urban activities.

Getting to Cannon Falls is easy, no matter if you fly or drive. Coming out of state, you’ll land in Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport. From there, it’s a quick 30- to 40-minute drive to Cannon Falls. The trip from Rochester is also short — just 45 minutes away. Meanwhile, the charming riverfront city of Chippewa Falls in Wisconsin is about two hours away.

For accommodation, the GrandStay Hotel and Suites Cannon Falls is a first-rate choice, with comfortable rooms and top-notch facilities. Guests can take a dip in the swimming pool, soak in the hot tub, work out at the fitness center, and savor the sunshine in the garden. Other than that, your options within the city limits are restricted to campgrounds. Cannon Falls Campground is great when you’re traveling with your family. With full hook-ups, water, electric, and tent sites, the campground is equipped with all the essentials for a memorable stay. Stock up on groceries at the camp store, cool off in the pool, or throw a party at the hall. Lake Byllesby Campground features waterfront sites — an ideal spot when your Cannon Falls getaway revolves around lakeside fun.

When a state is known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” all you have to do is take your pick. In Cannon Falls, Lake Byllesby is the place to be — bonus points for camping here. As the ultimate family-friendly destination in the area, Lake Byllesby provides a lot of things to do. While the kids swim at the beach or enjoy the splash pad, anglers can launch their vessel to catch black crappie, walleye, white bass, and more. Not only that, but you can bike along the many trails and marvel at the vistas from a canoe.

You’ll encounter most hikers, bikers, and inline skaters on the Cannon Valley Trail, traversing almost 20 miles of Minnesota’s landscapes. The scenic route boasts wildlife viewing opportunities, too — you might catch a glimpse of a deer or fox. During the summer months, you can go rafting with your friends or canoeing with your significant other on an 8-mile journey along the Cannon River. Of course, you can’t forget about the waterfall. The Little Cannon River Falls is by no means as grand as Iguazu, the world’s largest waterfall system, but it’s still a wonderful sight in the heart of the city.

To spend more time in nature, make your way to Miesville Ravine Park Reserve, where you can take a break from your kayaking and canoeing adventures and have a quiet picnic. While you’re there, hike the 3.7-mile Miesville Trail and meander through lush forests and observe birds soaring overhead. Golfing enthusiasts, on the other hand, can book a tee time at the Cannon Golf Club. The 18-hole golf course is a nice challenge for practicing your swing among sloping fairways and old-growth oaks. Another course worth checking out is the par-72 Summit Golf Club.