Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail
Trail facts:
Length: 20 miles
Surface: Crushed limestone on converted railbed
Hours: year-round, 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Fees: none
Counties: Winneshiek and a small part of Howard
Cities: Calmar, Ridgeway and Cresco
Connecting trails: Prairie Springs Recreational Trail (in Cresco)
Uses: hiking, nature viewing, biking, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling allowed only on the section from Ridgeway to Cresco; hunting is allowed on some sections; check with the Winneshiek County Conservation Board for more detailed information
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Trail description:
This trail is named for a radio show once broadcast in the Midwest. The trail follows the abandoned Milwaukee Railroad line that went from Calmar to Cresco. When the trail gets to the town of Ridgeway users will get off the lime screened trail and wind through the streets of Ridgeway.
Much of the scenery surrounding the trail is of the native prairies that have remained undisturbed throughout the years. Many of these prairies therefore contain rare, native plant species. Along with native flowers you may have the chance to view native wildlife as well.
Begin your journey on the Prairie Farmer Trail either in Cresco or Calmar. If deciding where to start is a dilemma, then take the opportunity to enjoy the entire 20 miles of trail and take in the sights both of these charming communities offer.
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Trailhead maps on this site:
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Resources from other sites:
- Winneshiek County Conservation Board
Includes a description and several pictures of the trail. There is also a map, which indicates camping, parking, picnicking, nature centers and a few other areas of interest.
- Trail Resources
This site provides all the basics such as trail notes, length and surface type, as well as other nearby activities, services and amenities.
- Howard County Conservation Board
Here you can find links to facilities and trails in Howard County. The Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail link provides information on the land and wildlife along the trail. Available activities, details on how to access the trail, contact information and a brief history can also be found here.
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For local information:
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