Trail Accessibility

Arbor Trail is a very short loop that connects to Overlook Trail. It is very wide and even and is easily accessed from the north parking lot.

Ash Trail connects to Raccoon, Walnut, and Overlook Trails. It is approximately 1 quarter mile long and takes users through the Northern deciduous forest of River Bend. Ash Trail is a shorter and less difficult alternative to connect with Overlook Trail than Walnut.

Cherry trail is perhaps the most diverse collection of surroundings on a trail found at River Bend. Easily accessible through a parking lot on the North end of the property, this trail is consistently even and you will be walking on gravel, dirt, grass, and asphalt. While this trail is narrow on the bridge, the general width is around 6 feet across. Depending on which end of the trail you are on, you may be met with views of a prairie clearing or even a glimpse of the waterfall as you walk along the bridge.

Overlook Trail takes you on a journey to the top of a hill where you can get the most elevated view of the property. If you are connecting to this trail from Arbor Trail you will be met with a gradual incline to the summit. Along this portion of the trail you will be walking on a fairly even surface of grass and dirt and will be surrounded with views of River Bend’s prairie and forest. More experienced hikers will have the option to continue from the second bench onto a single-track trail with a gravel and cobble surface. This portion of the trail will take you to the North Ridge overlook bench, a fantastic view of River Bend’s property. Once you are done taking in the view, feel free to either return from the way you came or descend the stairs to connect to Walnut Trail.

Owl Trail is a short loop that will take visitors through the woods and along the Straight River. There is one steep hill approximately halfway around the loop. Users will pass a play area and the Big Woods Amphitheater. Owl trail also connects with Maple and Trout Lily Trails for an extended walk.

Prairie Loop Trail will take you on a one mile loop around the prairie pond, winding through the prairie and deciduous forest. This trail has a uniform surface made out of packed gravel and grass. While walking this trail feel free to rest your legs on one of the many benches and admire the prairie views. There is one notable hill near the parking lot entry that allows an elevated view of the surrounding nature center. Check out the floating dock for a close look at the lower prairie pond and all the wildlife that it is home to.

Raccoon Trail is an easy walk that parallels both the prairie and deciduous forests of River Bend. The trail contains many resting points featuring views of surrounding nature. Raccoon will conveniently connect users with Prairie, Ash, and Arbor trails, but is also used as a popular out-and-back trail. It is approximately ½ of a mile long and ends at the Spring and Banding Station where you may be fortunate enough to observe some wildlife in action!

This trail is found on the southwestern corner of River Bend and connects to Teepee Tonka trail as well as Cherry Trail. This trail is fairly short and consists of a few rolling hills as well as a moderately steep and long hill on the eastern end. This trail offers a great place to sit and rest near the eastern end of the trail where you can take in the views of a prairie clearing after a pleasant walk in the woods. While the surface of this trail is fairly uniform, it is best to watch your step for unexpected bumps and roots along the trail.

Teepee Tonka Trail has a moderately steep hill on entry and another steeper hill at the area where it connects with Prairie Loop Trail. This trail is very straightforward with few turns after the initial hill off of Prairie Loop Trail. While walking this trail you will come across a prairie clearing as well as forest views on both ends. The path is around 6 feet wide and is consistently even. The trail is mostly loose gravel with some cobble. Benches are primarily found near the beginning of the trail.

Trout Lily trail parallels the Straight River and will provide some of the best river views in Faribault. This trail is a relatively steep hill of packed gravel and grass, but it also has uneven sections featuring rocks and roots. It is 3-5 feet wide, so these obstacles can be avoided. There are plenty of opportunities to stop along the way and enjoy river and forest views. If you are approaching Trout Lily trail from either side, expect a steep rocky trail near the beginning.

Turtle Trail will take you on a quarter-mile paved loop around Turtle Pond. The pond is host to a diverse ecosystem, so keep an eye out for turtles, frogs, and unique plant species. There are no steep hills and there is a good availability of benches. There is a floating wooden bridge that moves with the water and lacks a handrail. It is recommended that visitors stay on the center of the bridge.

Walnut Trail connects to Ash, Overlook, and Maple. It winds through the woods of River Bend and provides a longer alternative to Ash Trail for users accessing the North Ridge Overlook.