Des Moines River Valley State Trail
🏆🏆🏆 Prairie River Trail — Multi-use trail along the Des Moines River through southwestern Minnesota prairie
Des Moines River Valley State Trail follows the Des Moines River through the rolling prairies of southwestern Minnesota. The river begins in this region before flowing south through Iowa to its confluence with the Mississippi. The trail passes through restored tallgrass prairie and along river bluffs, offering views of one of Minnesota’s least-visited but most scenic river valleys. Birdwatching is excellent, with grassland species like western meadowlarks, dickcissels, and upland sandpipers.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Des Moines River, SW Minnesota |
| Trail Type | Multi-use |
| Fee | Free |
| Wildlife | Prairie birds, grassland species |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this connect to Iowa?
The trail currently stays within Minnesota, but the Des Moines River continues into Iowa. Future trail extensions may connect the systems.
About the Trail
Des Moines River Valley State Trail follows the Des Moines River through southwestern Minnesota — one of the state’s least-populated and most open landscapes. The trail passes through tallgrass prairie remnants and river bottom forest. The Des Moines River here flows through the Coteau des Prairies — a glacial plateau separating the Mississippi and Missouri River watersheds.
Things to Do
Biking and hiking the trail, birdwatching for prairie and river species, wildlife observation, canoeing the Des Moines River, and experiencing the vast southwestern Minnesota prairie landscape.
Insider Tips
Southwest corner: This trail follows the Des Moines River through Minnesota’s southwest prairie — one of the last regions settled in the state. Pro tip: The Des Moines River originates in Minnesota and flows through Iowa — the river valley is a migration corridor for raptors and waterfowl. Buffalo Ridge: The nearby Buffalo Ridge is one of the windiest spots in the Midwest — covered with wind turbines producing clean energy.
Best Time to Visit
Fall: Hawk migration along the river valley. Summer: Cycling and fishing. Spring: Prairie green-up and nesting birds. Winter: Snowy owl territory — irruptive years bring them south.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Buffalo Ridge?
Buffalo Ridge is a glacial moraine running through southwest Minnesota — once a major bison migration route (hence the name). Today, its consistent 20+ mph winds make it one of the premier wind energy sites in the US. Over 1,000 wind turbines now spin on the ridge — a dramatic visual feature on the prairie horizon.
🌾 Visit Des Moines River Valley Trail
Prairie river — tallgrass and grassland birds along the Des Moines.
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