3 Best Hiking Trails in Rochester, MN

“Quarry Hill Nature Centre is one of the top-rated hiking places in Rochester's Quarry Hill Park. The Nature Center was established in 1973. The 329-acre park includes 8+ miles of paved and hiking paths, a pond, and an 1882 sandstone cave. The elevation gain of the rail is 6 to 433 feet. The trail is generally considered an easy trail route. Cross-country skis and snow shoes are available for rent throughout the park during winter. The Quarry Hill Nature Centre building, which includes live animals and an accessible Exploration Hall, is staffed by the Friends of Quarry Hill Nature Centre. The friends of Quarry Hill Nature Centre's professional staff provide year-round seminars, day camps, expeditions, and recreation activities.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Picnic Tables Available
• Dogs Allowed
• Maintained Trails.”

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“Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo are well-maintained hiking trails and zoos in Olmsted County, Minnesota, United States, north of Byron and about 4.5 miles (7.2 kilometers) west of Rochester. Oxbow Park's 624 acres (253 hectares) offer practically any outdoor enthusiast the opportunity to pursue their favorite. There are four distinct picnic spaces, six individual picnic shelters, playground equipment, and a two-acre natural playground. The park is home to around 30 different animal species, most of which have ailments that would prevent them from thriving in the wild. The animals are all native to Minnesota. Dr. Paul E. Zollman is honored with the naming of the zoo. Some of the most well-known animals in the area include wolves, bald eagles, white-tailed deer, coyotes, bobcats, river otters, bison, and cougars. Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo are open most of the year; you can see most of these species yearly.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Wheel Chair Accessible
• Scenic Views
• Picnic Shelters Available.”

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“Indian Heights Park has many hiking trails and plentiful things to explore. The park spans 40 acres and has unpaved routes connecting the Zumbro River and Assisi Heights. The terrain has many challenges, including steep climbs, marshy areas, and great hiking trails for all skill levels. The Indian Heights Park Loop is a one-mile trail ideal for hiking, walking, trail running, and nature trips. There are multiple paths to choose from within the park. However, please be mindful of the narrow trails and the drop-off stone walls along the way. The park's trails can be icy in winter and overgrown in summer. Indian Heights Park is a lovely park with plenty of paths and beautiful views, and the staff are working hard to restore the area to a natural state. You can also see a nice overlook of Rochester.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Wooded Paths
• Stunning View
• Well-marked Trails.”

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