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Print Friendly MapEnjoy scenic views of the Vermillion River as the Empire Township Trail follows a former rail line south from the Empire Township through fields and woodlands into downtown Farmington. The trail parallels an active raii line for the first 0.6 miles from the northern-most trailhead, which has a trail map, a bench, and a garbage bin. There are more benches and trash receptacles along the trail, as well as a pavilion park shelter by the Kuchera Entrance (marked with a sign at Willow St & 4th St). The smooth and level paved path is accessible for those using mobility aids and for families with strollers.
Coming out of the woods, the trail splits several times with short paths providing access to several neighborhoods and downtown Farmington. Continuing in several directions, the trail provides connections between communities facilities, including Northview Park and Rambling River Park. Paths follow the Vermillion River through both parks with additional routes meandering within the parks. Northview Park has tennis courts, a playground, picnic benches and shelters, and a Veterans Memorial. Rambling River Park has several sports fields, including a baseball field.
Rambling along the river through fields and woods, the Empire Township Trail provides alternative connections between neighborhoods, schools, local businesses, parks, and community facilities. Whether you are commuting to work or school, going for bike ride, visiting a friend, headed downtown, or just want to spend some time in nature, the Empire Township Trail is a great option.
Parking is available in several lots by Northview Park and by Rambling River Park. View the TrailLink map for all locations and detailed directions..
We hit the Empire Township Trail at the Spruce St entrance (at the back of the parking lot by the hockey rink), in the evening. We were riding our bikes. The trail is not great for bikes at all anymore. The pavement is creased and hole-y, causing a tooth-rattling ride. We only rode to the DQ on Hwy 3 and then elected to take city streets back. It was a bit over 4 miles round trip that way. I went back to the Empire Township Trail in Farmington, MN this morning, on foot and with my dog. It is a pleasant walking trail, though there are areas that are hidden away from public view and could be a security risk (there was a male dressed all in black in the bushes as I walked by. I assume public urination was the reason). The trail could be improved with more lighting and maybe a public emergency call box or two. But all in all it's a nice trail with abundant birds.
I tried this one out because it’s close by but it wasn’t that fun. Too much pavement right on a major road, exhaust fumes etc. the parts with nice scenery between the two parks felt tiny
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