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Fall in Bluff County provides the perfect weather to enjoy a leisurely bike ride or walk on the scenic Root River State Trail and the Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail. The paved trails wind their way from one town to the next. The Taste of the Trail offers visitors the opportunity to sample all the scenic river valley has to offer – vistas, limestone bluff formations outdoor recreation, wildlife, art, Minnesota-friendly residents, boutique businesses, and palate-pleasing restaurants.
The Taste of the Trail is celebrating 10 years and takes place on three Saturdays in September. On September 10, participants will visit Lanesboro, Peterson and Whalan. On September 17, visitors will experience Fountain, Harmony, Preston and Chatfield. Finally, on Saturday, September 27, participants will visit Houston, Rushford and Rushford Village.
A sample of unique activities visitors can expect to find during the Taste of the Trails. In Peterson, visitors can make apple cider, or head over to the Driftless Farm to Table Eatery to taste brisket, or sample fall beer at the American Legion. Visitors are encouraged to check out the flea market at the New Generations of Harmony Antique Mall and sample mouth-watering food while exploring restaurants in the historic downtown. Kids will enjoy outdoors games at the Harmony Visitor Center. When in Whalan, do as the Norwegians do – enjoy lefse and rømmegrøt. A half mile outside Fountain, the Sinkhole Capital of the U.S.A., is an observation deck where visitors can peer down into the center of a sinkhole. Also, make sure to include a visit to the International Owl Center in Houston.
Upcoming Bluff County events
• September 8-11, Hesper-Mabel Steam Engine Days, Mabel
• September 10, Taste of the Trail – Peterson, Whalan, Lanesboro
• September 15-18, Applefest, La Crescent
• September 17, Taste of the Trail – Fountain, Harmony, Preston, Chatfield
• September 23-25, Fall Festival, Wykoff
• September 24, Taste of the Trail – Houston, Rushford, Rushford Village
The Visit Bluff Country Magazine is delivered to more than 1,000 locations in 35 counties in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. This magazine has a mission of promoting tourism in the Historic Bluff Country (Driftless) region.
For information on upcoming town festivals and events in Historic Bluff Country, vacation ideas for lodging, recreation, dining, and shopping, check out the magazine in print or online at www.visitbluffcountry.com.