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A guide to Historic Bluff Country

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Rushford

Rushford, rooted in a convergence of valleys etched along the Root River and Rush Creek waters, protected by towering bluffs, is an outdoor mecca. The landscape, sacred to indigenous Native American tribes, was recognized by early settlers for its life-sustaining splendor. The Southern Minnesota Railroad fueled the growth and progress of the city, forming an essential link to the area. A Legacy award recipient for its efforts to continue the historical and cultural heritage, the city is a bustling center for outdoor enthusiasts, art and history aficionados, families, and those looking for tranquility amid awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Running through the heart of town, the Root River is one of the top 10 trout waters in Minnesota. Restored and protected by The Conservancy, the river and the cold-water streams that feed it are known for exceptional brown, rainbow, and native brook trout, smallmouth and rock bass, sunfish, crappie, and channel catfish offerings. Rushford also offers fishing in the Rush Creek tributary, a designated stream of the meandering coulee, which flows through the city and merges with the Root. Up to 300 participants of all ages flock to the river’s edge on a Saturday in April for the annual Lipmasters Fishing Tournament. A shotgun start signals the anglers to start reeling in the redhorse, white sucker, and carp running in the Root River, and prizes are given in adult and kids divisions.

Off the beaten path, the Rushford Sand Barrens, part of the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest, provides an array of rare plants and animals. Among the restored oak savanna is native prairie that is home to at least 13 unique species of flora, untold numbers of birds, and record whitetail deer. With recently improved access, the area is primed for photography, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Ferndale Ridge, off the Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway, is a local wildlife management area with abundant deer, turkey, pheasant, and small game.

The city’s crown jewel is Magelssen Bluff Park, soaring above the valley floor and bearing the city name in stone anchored on its south slope. Featuring prominent limestone outcroppings and three scenic overlooks, the bluff offers an open panorama of the area in several miles. The winding road traversing the hillside to the summit invites visitors to tour the recently developed hiking trails, several picnic areas, long-standing apple trees, and the Rushford Burr Oak tree. The massive, stout-limbed tree is estimated to be nearly 200 years old and is one of the largest trees in Minnesota.

Visitors can also enjoy the Root River State Trail, a 60-mile paved trail, ranked among the best trail systems in Minnesota. At Rushford’s trailhead, the 1867 Southern Minnesota Railway Depot, now a museum, visitor center, and seat of the Rushford Area Historical Society, beckons you to step into the past. The Hanson cabin, under restoration, 1890 Grinde Schoolhouse, 1867 Episcopal Chapel, and 1913 Jail House complete the attractive grounds. Joining the state trail, east of the former railway bridge crossing is the newly developed Rush Creek Trail. The paved trail runs along the eastern side of the creek to Creekside Park.

The park is the pride of the city, featuring the Veteran’s Memorial, paved walking trails, three pavilions, a gazebo, tennis courts, basketball court, and skating rink and warming house in the winter. In its center is the custom and community-built playground structure, designed by renowned New York firm, Leathers and Associates, emulating the surrounding landscape and able to captivate the interest of children and adults. It is adjacent to the modern Ben Niggle Sports Complex, owned by Rushford-Peterson Schools, which boasts a state-of-the-art running track and several ball fields. Visitors can follow Rush Creek Trail to either the city’s Northend Campground or continue on, looping back to the Magelssen Bluff Hiking Trails.

A stone’s throw from the latter, visitors will love the completely remodeled 1875 Hoiland Mill – representing the days of Minnesota’s wheat and flour production. Other historic sites in town include the 1870 Hanson Hardware Store (now an Italian restaurant), 1872 Rushford Wagon and Carriage Company, and 1859 Walker & 1861 Valentine House, part of the Minnesota Pioneer House Project. The 1922 brick Tew Memorial Library is home to city hall and public library.

A full-service community, Rushford maintains many recreational possibilities. Take a dip at the Rushford Aquatic Center or golf a round—the challenging and scenic 9-hole course just east of town features 6,648 yards from the longest tees for a par of 36, for a course rating of 71.4. Bowl a few frames or delight in the ultimate healing and relaxation of massage or infrared saunas, both in town. Flying in? Rushford Municipal Airport (55Y) is considered one of the best in the area with on-site fuel, aircraft parking, hangar leasing and sales, flight training passenger terminal and lounge, and courtesy transportation. It serves as the backdrop for countless events throughout the year. Other citywide festivals throughout the year include Rushford Days, a week-long celebration the third week of July, and Taste of the Trail, the third Saturday after Labor Day in September.

With all there is to do, you’re bound to work up quite an appetite. Luckily, there’s no shortage of superb dining destinations Rushford. Unique to the area, a lefse factory noted in Food Network’s compilation of Great Food Gifts from 50 States offers an opportunity to view a handful of workers transform the potato dough to Norse delight, then enjoy the fresh-made lefse in addition to offering a number of other Scandinavian goodies and gifts, as well as offering a full menu in their café.

When it’s time to rest, Rushford’s accommodations are equally plentiful: a new motel built in 2014, an inn, campgrounds or a B&B are just the place to stay and enjoy the area.

Bluff Country Properties – Jeff Brogle
City:
Peterson
State:
MN
Phone:
507-577-1121
Website:
bluffcountryproperties.com
Category:
Alma, Dodge, Houston, La Crosse, Lanesboro, Minnesota, Peterson, Preston, Recreational, Rushford, Services, Trempealeau, Winona
Tags:
Agriculture, Biking, Fishing, Hiking, Horses, Hunting, Realtor
Description:

My name is Jeff Brogle. My family and I live on acreage between Lanesboro & Rushford. I am a proven Bluff Country Property specialist. I'm ready to put my local expertise to work for you! Focused on farms, recreation, hunting, rural homes and estates. We give back 10% to the local community.

Bluffview Campground
Address: Hwy 16
City:
Rushford
State:
MN
Phone:
507-450-4906
Website:
www.bluffviewcampground.com
Category:
Camping, Lodging, Minnesota, Rushford
Description:

Permanents & full hookups available.

Ferndale Country Club
Address: 23239 State Hwy 16
City:
Rushford
State:
MN
Phone:
507-864-7626
Website:
www.ferndalegolfcourse.com
Category:
Eating & Drinking, Minnesota, Recreational, Rushford
Tags:
Golf
Description:

A mature course that opened in 1931 and is nestled in the hardwoods and bluffs of southeastern Minnesota. 9 holes, Par 36. Bar & grill. Practice green driving range. Open to the public. Located 25 miles south of Winona, MN. Voted "The Best 9-hole Golf Value in Bluff Country" by the Minnesota Golfer Magazine.

Hammell Equipment
City:
Harmony, Chatfield, Rushford, Eitzen
State:
MN
Website:
www.hammellequipment.com
Category:
Chatfield, Harmony, Minnesota, Rushford, Shopping
Tags:
Agriculture, Gifts, Lawn & Garden
Description:

Quality farm equipment and service. Sport, recreation, utility, hunting, farming. Unique IH collectibles, toys, clothing & more.

Jessie Street Java
Address: 116 West Jessie Street
City:
Rushford
State:
MN
Phone:
507-864-2739
Website:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jessie-Street-Java/577387168994073
Category:
Eating & Drinking, Minnesota, Rushford
Tags:
Coffee
Description:

Hand crafted espresso drinks, hot loose leaf teas & 100% fruit smoothies, panini sandwiches & soups. Featured live music & local artisans. Wholesale whole bean cofee and wide variety of loose leaf teas. Gift certificates available.

Metz’s Hart-Land Creamery & Dairy
Address: 25909 County Road 102
City:
Rushford
State:
MN
Phone:
507-864-2627
Website:
metzhartland.com
Category:
Attractions, Minnesota, Rushford
Tags:
Agriculture
Description:

Directly from cow to creamery! Your agri-tourism destination. Family owned and operated.

Nordic Lanes & Lounge
Address: 403 S. Mill Street
City:
Rushford
State:
MN
Phone:
507-864-7799
Website:
www.nordiclanes.com
Category:
Minnesota, Recreational, Rushford
Tags:
Bowling, Event Center
Description:

Open bowling, birthday parties, receptions, banquets and Thunder Alley.

Norsland Lefse
Address: 210 Jessie Street
City:
Rushford
State:
MN
Phone:
507-864-2323
Website:
www.norslandlefse.com
Category:
Eating & Drinking, Minnesota, Rushford
Tags:
Coffee, Gifts
Description:

Fresh baked goods daily. Lefse observation kitchen, coffee shop, gift shop, bakery, wireless internet access. Real lefse and fine Scandinavian food. Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat 7am-2pm. Closed Sunday.

Pam’s Corner Convenience
Address: 105 State Road 16
City:
Rushford
State:
MN
Phone:
507-864-7949
Category:
Minnesota, Rushford, Shopping
Tags:
Auto, Convenience Store, Fishing, Hunting
Description:

Open early at 4am - 7 days a week. Hunting and fishing licenses sold here. Fax, copy machine, free ATM. Stop in and cool off with a Flavorburst shake. Piccadilly pizza and subs. Save 4% everytime you fuel up when using your Clark/Mastercard. Also...Pam's Off-Sale Liquor just around the back. 507-864-4231 - open 10am-10pm.

Rushford Foods
Address: 400 S. Mill Street
City:
Rushford
State:
MN
Phone:
507-864-2878
Website:
www.rushfordfoods.com
Category:
Minnesota, Rushford, Shopping
Tags:
Grocery & Specialty Foods
Description:

Full service grocery

Rushford Hardware
Address: 402 S. Mill Street
City:
Rushford
State:
MN
Phone:
507-864-2540
Category:
Minnesota, Rushford, Shopping
Tags:
Biking, Lawn & Garden, Pets
Description:

Outdoor sporting goods & supplies, bikes & accessories, Red Wing boots, Key clothing, licenses for fishing and hunting & supplies, complete garden center, bird feeders & supplies, pet food and supplies, tube sales and rentals.

Rushford Peterson Valley Chamber of Commerce
City:
Rushford
State:
MN
Phone:
507-864-3338
Website:
www.rushfordpetersonvalley.com
Category:
Attractions, Eating & Drinking, Lodging, Minnesota, Peterson, Recreational, Rushford
Description:

Experience the Root River by trail or water. So much to do and see. Excellent variety of restaurants, motels & inns, and campgrounds.

Rushford Peterson Valley Farmers Market
Address: Well House Ministry front lawn. 102 N. Mill St.
City:
Rushford
State:
MN
Category:
Minnesota, Rushford, Shopping
Tags:
Farmers Market
Description:

June through October. Tuesdays 4-6:30.

Rushford State Bank
Address: 219 S. Mill Street
City:
Rushford
State:
MN
Phone:
507-864-7755
Website:
www.rushfordstatebank.com
Category:
Minnesota, Rushford, Services
Tags:
ATM, Financial
Description:

Personal & business, internet banking, telephone banking, wire transfers, safe deposit boxes, savings, checking, loans, IRAs, ATM, gift cards. Also located at 119 E. Cedar Street, Houston, MN, 507-896-7755

Shawnee’s Bar & Grill
Address: 220 Mill Street
City:
Rushford
State:
MN
Phone:
507-864-2073
Website:
www.shawnees.net
Category:
Eating & Drinking, Minnesota, Rushford
Tags:
Bar
Description:

Home of the 1/3 lb charbroiled burger. Full lunch and dinner menu. No reservations necessary. Open Tuesday - Sunday at 11am.

Stumpy’s Restaurant & Lounge
Address: 122 W. Jessie Street
City:
Rushford
State:
MN
Phone:
507-864-7156
Website:
www.stumpys.net
Category:
Eating & Drinking, Minnesota, Rushford
Tags:
Bar, Craft Beer, Event Center, Off Sale
Description:

Daily specials, delicious pizza, homestyle cooking. Open 7 days a week. Mon-Thurs 5:30am-10pm, Fri & Sat 5:30am - 2am. Sun 7am-10pm.

The Creamery Pizza and Ice Cream
Address: 407 S. Mill Street
City:
Rushford
State:
MN
Phone:
507-864-7214
Website:
www.the-creamery.com
Category:
Eating & Drinking, Minnesota, Rushford
Description:

Pizza - eat in or take out. 30 plus premium ice cream flavors. Pies, cheesecake, bread pudding. Groups. Full menu. Daily specials. Homemade waffle cones and bowls. Mon-Thur 11am-9pm, Fri & Sat 11am-10pm, Sun noon-9pm.

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Minnesota Towns

  • Caledonia
  • Canton
  • Chatfield
  • Fountain
  • Harmony
  • Houston
  • Kellogg
  • Lake City
  • Lanesboro
  • LeRoy
  • Mabel
  • Millville
  • Minneiska
  • Peterson
  • Plainview
  • Preston
  • Reads Landing
  • Red Wing
  • Rushford
  • Spring Grove
  • Spring Valley
  • Wabasha
  • Whalan
  • Winona
  • Wykoff

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Visit Bluff Country

Historic Bluff Country, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Adams, Austin, Caledonia, Canton, Chatfield, Fountain, Harmony, Houston, Kellogg, Lanesboro, LeRoy, Mabel, Millville, Minneiska, Peterson, Plainview, Preston, Reads Landing, Red Wing, Rushford, Rushford Village, Spring Grove, Spring Valley, St. Charles, Wabasha, Whalan, Winona, Wykoff, Burr Oak, Charles City, Clermont, Cresco, Decorah, Dubuque, Dyersville, Elkader, Fort Atkinson, Froelich, Guttenberg, Hawkeye, Kendallville, Lansing, Lawler, Lime Springs, McGregor, Marquette, Osage, Protivin, Riceville, St. Ansgar, Spillville, Waukon, Alma, La Crosse, Platteville, Tomah, Viroqua, Warrens, Galena, Antiques, Apparel, Art Galleries, Financial, Banking, Craft Beer, Winery, Distillery, Brewery, Camping, B&B, Bread and Breakfast, Vacation Rentals, Amish, Scenic Byway, River, Fishing, Hunting, Canoe, Kayak, Tubing, Fly Fish, Golf, Recreation, Hiking, Theatre, Movies, Shopping, Gifts, Niagara Cave, Commonweal, Spam Museum, Root River State Trail, Beaver Creek Valley State Park, Horse Riding, Tours, Biking, Rentals, Skiing, Music, Stand Still Parade, Trout, Prairie Visions, Shooting Star, Lake Louise State Park, Steam Engines, Grumpy Old Men, Museums, Lakes, Upper Iowa River, Mississippi River, Laura Ingalss Wilder, Apple Blossom, Cranberry Festival, Veterans

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Minnesota Towns

  • Caledonia
  • Canton
  • Chatfield
  • Fountain
  • Harmony
  • Houston
  • Kellogg
  • Lake City
  • Lanesboro
  • LeRoy
  • Mabel
  • Millville
  • Minneiska
  • Peterson
  • Plainview
  • Preston
  • Reads Landing
  • Red Wing
  • Rushford
  • Spring Grove
  • Spring Valley
  • Wabasha
  • Whalan
  • Winona
  • Wykoff

Iowa Towns

  • Burr Oak
  • Calmar
  • Charles City
  • Clermont
  • Cresco
  • Decorah
  • Dyersville
  • Elkader
  • Fort Atkinson
  • Guttenberg
  • Hawkeye
  • Kendallville
  • Lansing
  • Lime Springs
  • Osage
  • Riceville
  • Spillville
  • Waukon

Wisconsin Towns

  • Alma
  • Dodge
  • La Crosse
  • Platteville
  • Trempealeau
  • Warrens
  • Westby

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