The Root River State Trail is a paved asphalt trail along an old railroad bed that runs over 60 miles through the scenic bluff country of southeastern Minnesota, beginning in Houston and running west through Rushford, Peterson, Whalan, Lanesboro, Preston, and to Harmony (with a spur to Fountain). The eastern segment is somewhat hillier, but most of the trail is generally level, running through the valleys of surrounding bluffs. Because the trail connects so many small towns, it makes for great daytrips or could even be the route of a multinight biking trip with stays in hotels and B&Bs along the way. The trail runs across many old railroad trestle bridges over the many spring-fed streams of the region and through varied topography of farm fields and wooded sections. The length of the trail makes is suitable for serious road bikers, but the mostly level grade makes it a fun trip for leisure bikers, too. The frequency of charming small towns along the trail makes for an interesting trip and lots of good lunch options.