Top 10 dog friendly places in Southeast Minnesota

Here are 10 top dog-friendly destinations in Southeast Minnesota along with some details on each:

1. Whitewater State Park (Winona)

- Over 12 miles of hiking trails open to dogs 

- Scenic park along the Whitewater River

- Campgrounds allow dogs in some areas

2. Root River Trail (Lanesboro) 

- Over 60 miles of trails open to leashed dogs

- Trails good for walking, running, biking with pets

- Access to Root River for dog-friendly paddling  

3. Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center (Lanesboro)

- Over 8 miles of pet-friendly trails

- Trail access to Root River

- Sustainable living programs and exhibits

4. Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park (Preston)

- 13 miles of hiking trails allow dogs

- Explorable creek at campground area

- Tours available at Mystery Cave (no dogs inside)

5. Whitewater Wildlife Management Area (Altura) 

- Hunting dog training areas

- Ponds, woods and bluff lands spanning over 3,000 acres  

- Some trails open to dogs

6. Great River Bluffs State Park (Winona) 

- 4 miles of hiking trails open to leashed dogs

- Scenic views of the Mississippi River

- Evaluating off-leash dog area

7. Money Creek Haven Park (Houston) 

- Off-leash dog park with agility equipment

- 5 acres of fenced area plus walking trails 

- Picnic shelters and play structures for kids

8. Beaver Creek Valley State Park (Caledonia)

- Park with 19 miles of pet-friendly trails 

- Creek access good for dogs who like water

- Campgrounds and rental cabins allow dogs

9. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park (Nerstrand)  

- Old growth forest with multi-use trails

- Peaceful walking loops ranging 1-3 miles

- Connector trails span over 9 miles

10. Trail Options Near Rochester

- Quarry Hill Park – 5 miles of trails allow dogs

- Gamehaven Regional Park –anolop 47 miles of trails 

- Mayowood Corridor – 8.5 mile paved loop