A Little Time and a Keyboard: Barn Bluff Hike in Red Wing, Minnesota

Barn Bluff Hike in Red Wing, Minnesota

Saturday, June 10, 2017

Barn Bluff 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.

Barn Bluff outcrop on a hike in Red Wing, Minnesota

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.

Wooded trail on Barn Bluff in Red Wing, Minnesota

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.

Red Wing from atop Barn Bluff in Minnesota

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

Mississippi River from Barn Bluff in Red Wing, Minnesota

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!


1 comment

  1. This looks like such a beautiful place to hike. Where in Minnesota is Red Wing located?

    ReplyDelete