Bicyclists, walkers and others have a new way to access a trail overlooking the Mississippi River.
On March 1, Dakota County Parks opened the Pine Bend Bluffs Trailhead along the Mississippi River Trail, offering a restroom facility, picnic area and other amenities. The trailhead is located on 111th Street at Courthouse Boulevard in Inver Grove Heights.
In addition to providing year-round visitor services, including restrooms, drinking water, a bike fix-it station and interpretive information, the trailhead provides access to the Pine Bend Bluffs Scientific and Natural Area. Visitors can enjoy a beautiful restored prairie, wildflowers, birding and wildlife watching and some of the most scenic views of the Mississippi River in the metro area.
The project is a partnership of Dakota County, the City of Inver Grove Heights and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
The Mississippi River Trail is a 26-mile route that eventually will connect South St. Paul and Hastings. To learn more, go to www.dakotacounty.us and search Mississippi River Trail.