Red Jacket Trail | Mankato

Red Jacket Trail – In Detail

Overview

The Red Jacket Trail is a scenic, multi-use trail located in south-central Minnesota, running approximately 6.3 miles between Mankato and Rapidan. Built on a former Milwaukee Road railway line, this trail offers a tranquil escape through wooded river valleys, farmlands, and prairie landscapes, crossing several historic bridges, including the notable Red Jacket Trestle over the Le Sueur River.

Trail Route & Structure

Trail Length: About 6.3 miles (one-way)

Trail Type: Paved asphalt path with some crushed stone sections

Trailheads:

Northern Terminus: Begins near Weagel Park and the Minnesota River Trail in Mankato

Southern Terminus: Ends near the small community of Rapidan, close to Rapidan Dam Park

The trail gently climbs in elevation as it moves south from Mankato, but the grade is minimal, making it ideal for cyclists and walkers of all fitness levels.

Highlights & Natural Beauty

Red Jacket Trestle Bridge:

The trail’s centerpiece is a massive, elevated trestle that spans over 550 feet in length and towers over 80 feet above the Le Sueur River and Highway 66.

This bridge offers sweeping views of the surrounding river valley, farmlands, and dense woodlands.

Originally built in the 1870s for rail traffic, the trestle has been repurposed for pedestrian and bicycle use.

Scenic Views:

The trail winds through lush hardwood forests, open meadows, and riparian corridors.

In the fall, the trees create a vibrant display of autumn colors.

Wildlife such as deer, wild turkeys, hawks, and numerous songbirds are frequently spotted along the trail.

Recreational Use

Cycling: The flat grade and paved surface make this a popular route for both casual and long-distance cyclists.

Walking & Running: A calm, quiet trail ideal for reflective walks or steady jogs.

Rollerblading: The asphalt surface accommodates smooth skating.

Cross-Country Skiing: In winter, the trail is used for skiing and snowshoeing.

Nature Observation: Benches and scenic overlooks encourage birdwatching and photography.

Red Jacket Trail Park

Located near the southern portion of the trail, Red Jacket Trail Park offers amenities and a place to pause:

Parking area

Picnic tables and grills

Drinking water and portable toilets

Le Sueur River access for canoeing or kayaking

Scenic overlook and interpretive signage about the history and nature of the area

Historical Context

The Red Jacket Trail follows the bed of the old Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad, which served the region until the 1970s.

The name “Red Jacket” honors a Seneca chief, known for diplomacy and oratory during the late 1700s.

The trestle bridge was preserved as a tribute to the region’s railroading past and adapted for recreational use in the late 1990s.

Trail Connections

The Red Jacket Trail links with other Mankato-area trails for expanded exploration:

Minnesota River Trail: Continues north along the Minnesota River through Mankato.

Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail: Connects eastward toward Madison Lake and Faribault.

South Route Trail: Heads toward Minneopa State Park, giving users access to Minneopa Falls and bison range.

Visitor Tips

Best Seasons: Spring and fall offer mild weather and the best views; summer is lush but can be hot.

Trail Etiquette: Stay to the right, announce when passing, and leash dogs.

Safety Note: Limited lighting-bring a flashlight or bike light if traveling near dusk.

Rest Stops: Water and restrooms available at Red Jacket Trail Park, but facilities are sparse beyond that point.

Accessibility

The smooth, flat surface and wide path make the trail wheelchair accessible.

Strollers and adaptive bikes are commonly used.

Public parking available at both ends, with signage at access points.

Final Impression

The Red Jacket Trail offers a mix of natural tranquility, historic character, and recreational flexibility. It's a beloved resource for locals in the Mankato area and a scenic destination for visitors who appreciate quiet outdoor exploration. Whether you’re biking across the impressive trestle, watching the sun set over the river valley, or simply walking beneath the shade of Minnesota oaks and maples, the trail provides a fulfilling, peaceful experience in the heart of southern Minnesota.