Just landed in Winona and itching to get outside? You are in the right place. From lakefront paths to bluff‑top overlooks and quiet backwaters on the Mississippi, you can find fresh air minutes from downtown. In this quick guide, you will learn where to walk, bike, paddle, and launch, plus practical tips on parking, rentals, and safety so you can explore with confidence. Let’s dive in.
Lake and riverfront staples
Lake Park: walk, bike, paddle
Lake Winona’s Lake Park is a go‑to for daily movement. You get a paved loop of about five miles, the C.A. Rohrer Rose Garden, playgrounds, disc golf, and the Lake Lodge recreation center that rents kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and bikes. Check the park details and rental info on Visit Winona’s Lake Park page for hours and amenities. Learn more about Lake Park and Lake Lodge rentals.
Levee Park: downtown river views
For a short, easy stroll by the river, head to Levee Park. It is a convenient spot to watch barges, look for eagles, and enjoy downtown events. You will also find nearby access points used by shore anglers and sightseers. See riverfront highlights and local fishing spots.
Bluff views and short climbs
Garvin Heights Overlook
Looking for a fast wow moment? Drive or hike to Garvin Heights Park for panoramic Mississippi River valley views. Expect steep sections and a stair climb, plus interpretive signs and restored bluff prairie. Plan your visit to Garvin Heights.
Sugar Loaf and winter ice
Winona’s iconic Sugar Loaf pinnacle offers a short, steep trail and scenic overlook. In winter, the nearby Winona Ice Park creates a unique ice‑climbing scene with volunteer‑maintained routes and seasonal access. Check conditions before you go. See Sugar Loaf background and Winona Ice Park details.
State parks nearby
Great River Bluffs State Park
Just southeast of town, Great River Bluffs protects rare bluff prairie and delivers multiple overlooks and ridge‑top trails. It is a favorite for hiking, birding, picnics, and camping. Explore Great River Bluffs trails and facilities.
Whitewater State Park
A short drive into Winona County brings you to rugged valleys, trout streams, and a network of scenic hikes at Whitewater. Families enjoy the visitor center, and anglers come for trout waters. See things to do at Whitewater.
John A. Latsch State Park
If you want a quick but challenging climb, take the Riverview Trail. It is short and steep with many steps and a rewarding river overlook.
Mountain biking at Bluffside Park
Winona’s trail scene is growing fast. Bluffside Park opened professionally built mountain bike and multiuse singletrack in late 2023, with about five to five‑and‑a‑half miles in the first phase. You will find a beginner‑friendly green loop, intermediate gravity lines, and skills areas. For the latest on the new system and the community partners behind it, read the recent coverage. Get the Bluffside Park trail story.
River access and paddling
Mapped refuge canoe routes
The Mississippi backwaters around Winona sit within the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. You can paddle mapped routes like Aghaming and Verchota through sloughs and quiet channels. Always check water levels and refuge notices before you go. Find refuge maps and visitor guidance.
Local launches and marinas
You will find public landings around Prairie Island and the refuge, plus a family‑friendly launch and swimming beach at Michael LaCanne Memorial Park in Goodview. Boaters can look into slip access and services at marinas on Latsch Island. For directions and current launch info, use the local landing directory. Browse Winona boat landings and marinas.
Fishing basics
Shore fishing is popular along the riverfront, and regional streams draw trout anglers. Review current seasons and licensing rules with the Minnesota DNR before you head out.
Plan your outing
- Parking and restrooms: Bluff trailheads often have limited parking and minimal facilities. Arrive early and bring water.
- Footwear and terrain: Expect short, steep climbs on bluff trails. Wear sturdy shoes and stay on marked paths.
- Rentals: Lake Lodge at Lake Park rents paddlesports gear and bikes. Check seasonal hours and age requirements on the Lake Park page.
- Conditions: River levels and access roads change with weather. Confirm launch status and refuge notices before paddling.
Quick ideas to get started:
- A downtown hour: Stroll Levee Park, then loop part of Lake Winona and visit the Rose Garden. See Lake Park details.
- A bluff morning: Pair Garvin Heights for sunrise with a short Sugar Loaf visit. Plan Garvin Heights.
- A family paddle: Rent from Lake Lodge and cruise Lake Winona, or pick a calm refuge backwater on a low‑wind day. Check refuge visitor info.
Safety and rules to know
- State park permits: Minnesota state parks use a vehicle permit and reservations system for camping and facilities. Review details on the park pages. Start with Great River Bluffs.
- Boater education and permits: Minnesota updated watercraft safety rules with a phased operator permit requirement starting in 2025. Check birth‑date based timelines, exemptions, and safety education before operating motorized craft. Read Minnesota’s boating statutes.
- Registration and gear: Most watercraft require registration and approved life jackets on board. Rentals must provide PFDs. Confirm requirements with the state before launching. Review statute details.
- Trail etiquette: Yield rules help everyone share the trail. Expect seasonal closures or grooming notices in some areas, and follow posted signs. See DNR guidance and clubs.
- Habitat and wildlife: Stay on designated trails, keep dogs leashed where posted, and respect closures that protect rare bluff prairie. Sensitive species and steep bluffs are part of this landscape. Learn why the bluffs matter.
Live close to the outdoors
If access to parks, trails, and water is high on your list, let’s match your home search to your lifestyle. From bluff‑view neighborhoods to easy lake access, you can count on local guidance and a smooth move. Reach out to Julie Delap for thoughtful, concierge‑level support in Winona and across the Driftless Region.
FAQs
What are the easiest places to start walking in Winona?
- Try the paved loop around Lake Winona for a scenic, flat walk close to downtown. See Lake Park details.
Where can I rent kayaks or paddleboards in Winona?
- Lake Lodge at Lake Park rents kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and bikes with seasonal hours. Check rental info on the Lake Park page.
What are the best bluff hikes for first‑time visitors?
- Great River Bluffs State Park offers multiple overlook trails along the ridge that are scenic and manageable. Preview the park trails.
Where do I launch for quiet backwater paddling near Winona?
- Look for refuge landings and mapped routes such as Aghaming and Verchota, and always check water levels first. Use the refuge visitor maps and local boat landing listings.
Is there winter ice climbing in Winona?
- Yes. The Winona Ice Park offers seasonal, volunteer‑supported ice routes near Sugar Loaf. Check current conditions before you go. Get Ice Park info.
