Heavy Rain and Flooding Prompt State Park and Trail Closures in Southeast Minnesota

Preston, MN (KROC-AM News)- The heavy rains that have prompted flooding in southeast Minnesota have altered plans for those set on enjoying the Independence Day weekend in Bluff Country. 

Read More: More Heavy Rain Threatens Flood-Weary Southeast Minnesota

New 48-hour rain totals posted Friday morning by the National Weather Service indicate communities in Fillmore County received more than 3.5 to less than 8.5 inches of rain.

Mabel saw the most in Fillmore County, picking up 8.28 inches of rain between Wednesday morning and Friday morning. 

NWS La Crosse

Harmony and Lanesboro each picked up over 6.5 inches and Spring Valley collected nearly six inches of rain. 

State Parks and Trails in Southeast Minnesota Closed Due to Flooding

The heavy rains caused bodies of water to swell into nearby state parks and wash out local trails. 

Get our free mobile app

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says Beaver Creek Valley State Park is closed to the public due to flood waters blocking access roads and damaging a bridge. The park will reopen once the flood water recedes. 

Mystery Cave is closed at Forestville State Park due to flooding. All tours are canceled. The DNR says the cave will open once crews can complete a safety assessment. 

Trail Closures and Advisories

Travel is also not advised on the Root River State Trial due to flooding, washouts and mudslides. 

All trails in the Snake Creek and Trout Valley Forest Recreation Areas within the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest are also closed. 

The Chatfield ATV Trail in Fillmore County and Southeast Minnesota ATV Trail in Winona County are also closed.