Owatonna offers ways to explore the outdoors year-round with endless activities and wide-open spaces. Here’s your four-season recreation guide.

By Rebecca Treon on January 19, 2023

Hikes in colorful fall foliage, snowshoeing through the woods on a blanket of white, hitting the back nine on a spring day or cooling off in the lazy river at the local water park are just some of the fun things to do you’ll find in Owatonna, Minnesota, an outdoor playground in every season.

From the extensive paved multi-use trails that run throughout town to the city’s new mountain biking trail, the Owatonna area offers a wide range of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed all year long.

In the heart of Minnesota, the area boasts a four-season climate with the weather to enjoy it, abundant park facilities and trails, like-minded groups of outdoor enthusiasts to join, and places to get the gear to do it all.

If you’re wondering what the best outdoor activities are in Owatonna, read on. We talked to locals about their favorite things in the area and we’ve got you covered with suggestions for every season.

Summer

Summers in Owatonna are fairly mild, with high temperatures running into the low 80s — plenty warm for locals take to the waters for a refreshing dip.

“River Springs Water Park is great not only for locals, but people come from around the county and the region to enjoy it,” says Jenna Tuma, Senior Director of Parks and Recreation. “It has a lazy river, pools and water slides. We have a nice beach at Lake Kohlmier, where there’s also fishing, kayak, SUP and canoe rental.”

Kayaking enthusiasts can also paddle Rice Lake State Park, a wetland area known for its birdwatching, hiking, and camping — some sites are even canoe-in. There are also various small rivers and creeks throughout Owatonna, like the Straight River, home to the Straight River Water Trail, a popular destination to dip your oars.

In addition to a robust selection of recreational classes offered by…