Trails Information

This is a hike you’ll want to take at a slow pace due to its steady climb. Even with the elevation gain and several sets of steps, this hike is worth the effort needed to reach the top of the 340-foot bluff. The cliff showcases a spectacular view of the Mississippi River on one side and Red Wing on the other.

It’s a pretty trail through a scattering of trees on the south side and, on the north side, a more thickly wooded, rocky trail wedged between the Mississippi and the towering bluff.The main highlight of these trails is to experience the view from the top, where miles of Wisconsin’s and Minnesota’s urban and rural countryside are visible with the backdrop of the beautiful Mississippi River.

Caution

All trails begin at the end of East Fifth Street. The following caution applies to all trails: Loose Rocks, Steep Slopes, Vertical Drops. Proceed at Your Own Risk. Children should be accompanied by an adult.

Trails

Prairie Trail (Moderate)

This trail runs along the summit of the entire bluff and must be accessed by hiking the South Trail. On both ends of this trail there are scenic overlooks which offer magnificent views of the area. Due to vertical cliffs: Caution should be taken at both scenic overlooks, especially the East Scenic Overlook. Trail Lengths as follows:

From West Scenic Overlook to East Scenic Overlook: .55 miles

Midland Trail (Moderate)

This primitive trail runs parallel to the South Trail and offers an alternative route along the south base of Barn Bluff.

South Trail (Easy/Moderate)

This trail starts at the Main Park Access and leads to the Prairie Trail. The trail runs along the southern edge of the bluff before rising to the summit on the new Kiwanis stairway, which runs along the eastern edge of the Linne Quarry. This trail is the easiest way to reach the summit of Barn Bluff. Trail Lengths as follows:

To Linne Quarry/Kiwanis New Stairway: .43 miles
To East Scenic Overlook: .83 miles