This 14.5 mile rail trail shadows the steep walls of the Red Cedar Valley from Menomonie to its connection with the Chippewa River State Trail. Along its route, the trail passes through the communities of Irvington, Downsville, and the Dunnville State Wildlife Area. The trail passes by prairies, marshland, bottoms, and farmlands, including sandstone bluffs and other unique rock formations. The level grade and limestone surface make this trail suitable for bicyclists, walkers and joggers. Each bicyclist age 16 or older needs a Wisconsin [state trail pass](https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/admission/trailpass) while using the trail. Passes are available at the Menomonie depot trailhead and in Downsville. [GOOGLE TRAIL MAP HERE](https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1KgnvfgFABplScCEIZyUORo9KgYo8E_c&ll=44.7885452418999%2C-91.91164500000002&z=12).

Red Cedar State Trail

Inspired by the finest Supper Clubs throughout the Midwest, the Wilson Creek Inn offers an elegant setting, savory food and delicious cocktails. You will not be disappointed!

Wilson Creek Inn

Chippewa Valley Cheesesteak is the perfect destination for delicious cheesesteaks, burgers, fish, and shrimp!

Chippewa Valley Cheesesteak

Though originally home to Santee Dakota and Ojibwe native people, jurisdiction over the land that comprises Dunn County has been claimed by Spain, France, England and the United States. As smaller territories were formed from the Northwest Territory of the United States (Northwest Ordinance, 1787), that same land was a part of the Indiana Territory (1800-1805), the Michigan Territory (1805-1809), the Illinois Territory (1809-1836) and finally the Wisconsin Territory. Dunn County was created from a portion of Chippewa County on February 19, 1854, and at the time included all of the present Dunn and Pepin Counties (formed in 1858). Its present-day boundaries encompass some 858 square miles. Prior to 1854, all or parts of the land in Dunn County had been part of Chippewa, St. Croix or Crawford Counties for various periods. The county is named for Charles Dunn, first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Wisconsin Territory (1836-48), who was appointed by President Andrew Jackson. Dunn County's "Seat of Justice" was at Amos Colburn's at or near the ferry across the Red Cedar River near its mouth at Dunnville. The courthouse in Dunnville burned to the ground in October 1858. After several months of moving from place to place, the county seat was moved to Menomonie on January 1, 1861. Dunn County Wisconsin has a rich history and many historical sites to explore.

Dunn County Historical Society

You can get a pizza anywhere. If you want an experience fueled by fire, Big Ash Pizza is for you. We offer a passion for food bred and fostered here in the Chippewa Valley. If you're looking for a fun, fresh dining experience, we will hit the road for you!

Big Ash Pizza

This trail system in Menomonie sits along the northeast shore of Lake Menomin and offers five miles of groomed [winter bike trails](https://www.visiteauclaire.com/things-to-do/outdoors/trails/bike-trails/winter-biking/) for riders of all abilities as well as [snowshoeing](https://www.visiteauclaire.com/things-to-do/outdoors/winter-recreation/snowshoe-trails/) routes. Entry is free. [GOOGLE TRAIL MAP HERE](https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1kx0mSiumbpFNMSMZLAfmhXYGVdohZhw&ll=44.901493831556564%2C-91.89424249999999&z=15).

Lake Menomin Park

Located in Menomonie's Wakanda Park. Exhibits include The Golden Age of American Auto Design, Kraft State Bank Robbery, Caddie Woodlawn Children's Discovery Room, Victorian Rooms, James Huff Stout, Harry Miller – King of the Race Car Builders, plus so much more. Summer Hours | May – September Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Winter Hours | October – April Wednesday through Sunday, Noon – 4 p.m.

Rassbach Heritage Museum

Hilkrest - Originally situated in Sherman Township, the 19th century Hilkrest School is a classic example of the one-room country schools that were common in Dunn County until the 1960's. It was moved to the Dunn County Fairgrounds in 1962–63 where it was open through the 2006 fair. Today the school is located next to the Rassbach Heritage Museum in Wakanda Park.

Tainter Playhouse -The Tainter Playhouse was used by the children of Andrew Tainter, who was one of the founders of the Knapp, Stout & Co., Company lumber empire. It was moved to the Dunn County Fairgrounds in 1965 where it was open through the 2006 fair.

Hilkrest Rural School & Tainter Playhouse

The store is a must-stop along the interstate for tasty necessities. Travelers and locals alike stock up on their favorite cheeses, browsing the largest selection of Wisconsin-made cheeses in the area, including our world-famous cheese curds made in Ellsworth. You’ll find a well-stocked wine and beer department featuring regional labels such as New Glarus and Wollersheim, Door Peninsula Winery, Three Lakes Winery, and more.

Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery

This 700-acre state recreation area near Menomonie features nine miles of [ski trails](https://www.visiteauclaire.com/things-to-do/outdoors/winter-recreation/cross-country-skiing-trails/) that vary in difficulty and are groomed for both classic and skate skiing. Sleds, snowboards and hikers are not allowed on ski trails, but there is an off-trail [snowshoe area](https://www.visiteauclaire.com/things-to-do/outdoors/winter-recreation/snowshoe-trails/) in the western portion of the property. State trail pass required.

Hoffman Hills

Welcome to the Red Cedar State Trail, one of Dunn County's premier natural and recreational destinations. Whether bicycling, skiing, hiking, walking or jogging - you will discover miles of spectacular natural beauty. 

The Red Cedar Trail has a compacted limestone surface and meanders past towering sandstone bluffs and pastoral farmland, through deep, deciduous forests, sunny meadows, and expansive river bottoms. Sweeping vistas of the Red Cedar River are found along much of the 14.5 miles of trail. Be certain to slow your pace and enjoy the amazing diversity of animals and plants found here. 

This gently sloping, four-season trail rests upon the bed of a historic railway. The north trailhead is at the old Depot and contains historical and natural exhibits, sells trail passes, and is a visitor center for the City of Menomonie and surrounding area.

Red Cedar State Trail

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