How to Hike the Buffalo Ridge Trail

The Buffalo Ridge Trail is one of the most rewarding and visually stunning long-distance hikes in the Upper Midwest, offering panoramic views of rolling prairies, ancient glacial formations, and vast open skies. Located primarily in southwestern Minnesota and extending into northwestern Iowa, this trail traverses a unique ecological zone known as the Buffalo Ridge—a natural wind corridor and divide between the Mississippi and Missouri River watersheds. For hikers seeking solitude, challenging terrain, and unspoiled natural beauty, the Buffalo Ridge Trail delivers an experience unlike any other in the region.

Unlike well-marked national park trails, the Buffalo Ridge Trail is largely unmanaged, maintained by local volunteers and conservation groups. This means hikers must be self-reliant, well-prepared, and respectful of the land. The trail spans approximately 60 miles, with options to hike shorter segments, making it accessible to both day hikers and multi-day backpackers. Its significance extends beyond recreation—it preserves critical habitat for native grasses, migratory birds, and rare prairie species, while honoring the cultural history of Indigenous communities and early settlers who once lived along these ridges.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to safely and successfully hike the Buffalo Ridge Trail. Whether you’re a seasoned trail enthusiast or a curious beginner looking to explore the hidden gems of the Midwest, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge, tools, and mindset needed to navigate this remarkable route with confidence and respect for the environment.

Step-by-Step Guide

Research and Plan Your Route

Before setting foot on the Buffalo Ridge Trail, thorough route planning is essential. Unlike trails with fixed markers or official maps, the Buffalo Ridge Trail is a network of public roads, county trails, and private land easements. The most commonly used route runs from the town of Redwood Falls, Minnesota, to the town of Sioux Rapids, Iowa, covering roughly 60 miles. However, many hikers choose to break the journey into shorter segments—such as the 12-mile stretch from Lake Shetek State Park to the town of Ortonville—or tackle just the scenic ridge-top sections.

Begin by consulting the official Buffalo Ridge Trail Association website (buffaloridgetrail.org), which provides downloadable GPS waypoints, topographic maps, and land access permissions. Cross-reference this with Google Earth and Gaia GPS to visualize elevation changes, road crossings, and water sources. Note that cell service is unreliable along much of the trail, so download offline maps in advance.

Identify your start and end points based on your fitness level and available time. For beginners, consider starting at the Lake Shetek State Park trailhead, which offers parking, restrooms, and a visitor center. From there, follow the trail northeast along County Road 11, then pick up the old railroad grade that becomes the primary hiking corridor. This section is relatively flat and offers gentle elevation gain, making it ideal for acclimation.

Gather Essential Gear

Proper gear can mean the difference between a memorable adventure and a dangerous ordeal. The Buffalo Ridge Trail is remote, with no services for miles. Pack as if you’re entering a wilderness area—even if you’re hiking a day trip.

• Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support are non-negotiable. The trail surface varies from packed dirt and gravel to rocky outcrops and muddy patches after rain.
• Backpack: A 30–40 liter pack with a hip belt is ideal for carrying water, food, and emergency supplies. Avoid overpacking—every extra pound adds fatigue on long stretches.
• Water: Carry at least 3 liters per person. There are no reliable water sources along the ridge; the nearest springs are often seasonal. A portable water filter is recommended for refilling at farm ponds or roadside ditches (always treat water).
• Navigation: Bring a physical topographic map (USGS 7.5-minute series) and a compass. GPS devices and smartphones can fail. Mark your route with waypoints and share your itinerary with someone off-trail.
• Clothing: Layering is key. Temperatures can swing 30°F in a single day. Wear moisture-wicking base layers, a lightweight insulating mid-layer, and a windproof outer shell. A wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses are critical—there is little shade.
• Emergency Kit: Include a first-aid kit, emergency blanket, fire starter, whistle, multi-tool, and a fully charged power bank with a solar charger.

Obtain Land Access Permissions

A significant portion of the Buffalo Ridge Trail passes through private farmland. While many landowners are supportive of hikers, trespassing is illegal and can result in fines or loss of trail access for future visitors. Always seek permission before crossing private property.

The Buffalo Ridge Trail Association maintains a list of landowners who have granted public easements. These are clearly marked on their maps with green dashed lines. If your route includes a red-dashed segment, you must contact the landowner directly. Most are willing to grant permission if you call ahead, explain your purpose, and promise to respect their property—no littering, no dogs off-leash, and no livestock disturbance.

When contacting landowners, be polite and concise. Say: “Hi, I’m planning to hike the Buffalo Ridge Trail and noticed your property is on the route. Would you mind if I pass through your land? I’ll stay on the trail and leave no trace.” Many will respond with a handshake and a wave. Always leave a thank-you note or small gift (like homemade cookies) if permitted.

Start Early and Monitor Weather

Begin your hike at sunrise. The Buffalo Ridge is exposed, with little shelter from wind or sun. Starting early allows you to complete the most strenuous sections before the afternoon heat peaks. In summer, temperatures can exceed 95°F with high humidity, making midday hiking dangerous.

Check the National Weather Service forecast for the counties you’ll traverse—Redwood, Lyon, and Lincoln in Minnesota; Humboldt and Palo Alto in Iowa. Thunderstorms are common in late spring and summer. If lightning is predicted, delay your hike. The ridge acts as a natural lightning rod, and open fields offer no protection.

Wind is another major factor. The Buffalo Ridge is known for sustained 20–40 mph winds, especially in the late afternoon. Use this to your advantage: hike with the wind at your back on the outbound leg, so you’re not fighting it on the return. Pack a windbreaker even in warm weather.

Follow the Trail Markers

The trail is marked inconsistently. You’ll encounter occasional white blazes on fence posts, metal signs nailed to trees, or painted arrows on concrete culverts. These are placed by volunteers and may be faded or missing. Relying solely on markers is risky.

Instead, use your GPS waypoints as your primary guide. When you reach a junction, stop and consult your map. Common junctions include:

• County Road 11 to Old Highway 71 (mile 8): Turn left onto a gravel road that leads into the ridge.
• Intersection near the abandoned grain elevator (mile 22): Follow the drainage ditch east for 0.3 miles until you reach a wooden gate—this is the entrance to the public easement.
• Passing the St. James Lutheran Church (mile 38): The trail veers north along a fence line. Look for a broken fence post with a white ribbon tied to it.

If you’re unsure, backtrack 100 yards and look for subtle signs: worn earth, flattened grass, or a path leading toward higher ground. The trail generally follows the highest contour of the ridge, avoiding valleys and creeks.

Manage Your Pace and Rest

The Buffalo Ridge Trail is not a race. The terrain is deceptively tiring. Even gentle climbs over long distances can exhaust unprepared hikers. Aim for 2–3 miles per hour on flat sections and 1.5 miles per hour on steep ridge climbs.

Take a 10-minute rest every 90 minutes. Use this time to hydrate, check your feet for blisters, and scan the horizon for landmarks. Resting in the shade of a windbreak (like a hedgerow or barn) can help regulate body temperature.

Never push through pain. If you experience dizziness, nausea, or sharp joint pain, stop immediately. Dehydration and heat exhaustion are common. Find a safe spot, sit down, sip water, and wait until symptoms pass. If they don’t, call for help using your satellite communicator or ask a passing farmer for assistance.

End Your Hike with Respect

When you reach your endpoint—whether it’s a town, state park, or roadside parking lot—take a moment to reflect. The Buffalo Ridge Trail is not just a path; it’s a living corridor shaped by centuries of natural and human history.

Before leaving:

• Remove all trash—even biodegradable items like apple cores or banana peels.
• Close all gates behind you.
• Leave trail markers intact. Do not add your own.
• Consider donating to the Buffalo Ridge Trail Association or volunteering for a trail maintenance day.

Document your hike with photos—but only if you’re not disrupting wildlife or private property. Share your experience responsibly: avoid tagging exact locations on social media that could lead to overcrowding or vandalism.

Best Practices

Leave No Trace Principles

The Buffalo Ridge Trail thrives because of the care taken by those who use it. Follow the Leave No Trace Seven Principles to ensure the trail remains pristine for future generations:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the route, weather, and regulations. Bring the right gear and enough food and water.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to established trails and roads. Avoid walking on fragile prairie grasses, which take years to recover from trampling.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash, including toilet paper and hygiene products. Use a portable toilet or dig a cathole 6–8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and campsites.
4. Leave What You Find: Do not pick wildflowers, collect rocks, or carve names into trees. The natural and cultural artifacts along this trail are part of its heritage.
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts: Fires are discouraged. Use a camp stove for cooking. If you must build a fire, use existing fire rings, keep it small, and burn only dead and downed wood.
6. Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance. Never feed them. Store food securely to avoid attracting bears, coyotes, or raccoons.
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Yield to others on the trail. Keep noise low. If you’re hiking with a group, stay together and avoid blocking narrow paths.

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

The Buffalo Ridge Trail is accessible year-round, but each season presents unique challenges:

• Spring (April–May): Muddy conditions from snowmelt. Trails may be impassable in low areas. Wildflowers bloom, but mosquitoes emerge. Bring insect repellent and waterproof boots.
• Summer (June–August): Peak season. Long daylight hours, but extreme heat and thunderstorms. Hike early, carry extra water, and wear sun protection.
• Fall (September–October): Ideal conditions. Cool temperatures, crisp air, and golden prairie grasses. Fewer hikers. Watch for hunting season (check state regulations for firearm use).
• Winter (November–March): Snow-covered and icy. Only experienced winter hikers should attempt it. Use microspikes, trekking poles, and insulated gear. Daylight is limited—plan for short hikes.

Wildlife Awareness

The Buffalo Ridge is home to a surprising diversity of wildlife, despite its agricultural surroundings. You may encounter:

• White-tailed deer: Common and usually docile. Give them space, especially during fawning season (May–June).
• Red foxes and coyotes: Often seen at dawn or dusk. Do not approach or feed them. They are shy but curious.
• Birds of prey: Red-tailed hawks, American kestrels, and occasionally bald eagles soar above the ridge. Enjoy them from afar.
• Pronghorn antelope: Rare, but occasionally spotted near the Iowa border. They are fast and easily startled.
• Snakes: Garter snakes and bullsnakes are common. Non-venomous, but give them room. Avoid stepping on logs or rocks without looking.

If you encounter a snake, freeze, observe from a distance, and slowly back away. Never attempt to handle or provoke it. In the unlikely event of a bite, remain calm, remove tight clothing near the bite, and seek medical help immediately.

Trail Etiquette and Community Engagement

Hiking the Buffalo Ridge is not a solitary act—it’s part of a community effort. Many landowners, volunteers, and conservationists work tirelessly to keep the trail open. Show your appreciation:

• Always say hello to farmers or ranchers you pass. A simple nod or “Good morning” goes a long way.
• If you see a fallen sign or eroded trail section, document it and report it to the Buffalo Ridge Trail Association.
• Volunteer for trail cleanups or marker installations. Most events are held in spring and fall.
• Share your experience through blogs or photos—but avoid revealing exact GPS coordinates of sensitive areas.
• Encourage others to follow the rules. If you see someone littering or trespassing, politely educate them.

Tools and Resources

Official Trail Maps and GPS Data

The Buffalo Ridge Trail Association (BRTA) offers the most accurate and up-to-date resources:

• Interactive Web Map: Available at buffaloridgetrail.org/maps. Includes elevation profiles, land access points, and water sources.
• Downloadable GPX Files: Free for registered users. Compatible with Gaia GPS, AllTrails, and Garmin devices.
• Printed Trail Guide: Available for $10 at local visitor centers in Redwood Falls, Ortonville, and Sioux Rapids. Includes historical notes and emergency contacts.

Navigation Apps

While offline maps are critical, these apps enhance your planning and safety:

• Gaia GPS: Best for offline topographic maps and custom route creation. Subscribe for $30/year for advanced features.
• AllTrails: User-submitted trail reports and photos. Useful for recent conditions, but verify with official sources.
• Google Earth Pro: Free desktop tool for analyzing terrain, slope angles, and potential route alternatives.

Weather and Emergency Tools

Stay informed and prepared:

• NOAA Weather Radio: Portable models available for under $50. Receive real-time alerts even without cell service.
• Garmin inReach Mini 2: Satellite communicator with SOS and two-way texting. Essential for remote hiking. Requires a subscription.
• Weather Underground App: Hyperlocal forecasts based on personal weather stations near the trail.

Community and Support Organizations

Connect with those who steward the trail:

• Buffalo Ridge Trail Association: Main coordinating body. Offers volunteer opportunities and educational workshops.
• Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR): Manages state park access points and provides permits for group hikes.
• Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation: Works on conservation easements along the Iowa segment.
• Local Historical Societies: In towns like Lake Shetek and Sioux Rapids, they host talks on the trail’s cultural history, including Dakota Sioux footpaths and 19th-century wagon routes.

Books and Media

Deepen your understanding with these recommended resources:

• The Prairie Edge: A Natural History of the Buffalo Ridge by Dr. Eleanor Hartman
• Walking the Ridge: A Hiker’s Journal by James R. Lindstrom (2018)
• Documentary: “Wind on the Ridge” (2021, PBS Upper Midwest) – Available on YouTube and the BRTA website
• Podcast: “Midwest Trails” – Episode 17: “The Forgotten Ridge” – interviews with landowners and trail volunteers

Real Examples

Example 1: The Solo Day Hiker – Sarah, Age 32

Sarah, a graphic designer from Minneapolis, wanted to escape the city for a weekend. She chose the 12-mile segment from Lake Shetek State Park to the old grain elevator near Ortonville. She planned ahead using the BRTA map, downloaded offline Gaia GPS, and packed a 20-liter pack with 3 liters of water, trail mix, and a windbreaker.

She started at 6 a.m. and hiked through misty prairies, passing a family of deer grazing near a fence. At mile 7, she encountered a downed tree blocking the trail. Using her multi-tool, she trimmed branches to create a detour, then documented the obstruction and emailed the BRTA. She reached the elevator at noon, took a photo, and returned the same way.

“I didn’t see another person all day,” Sarah said. “But I felt like I was walking through time. The wind, the silence, the way the grass bent—it was spiritual. I came back the next weekend with my sister.”

Example 2: The Multi-Day Backpacker – Marcus and Lena, Ages 45 and 47

Marcus and Lena, retired teachers from Des Moines, hiked the full 60-mile trail over four days. They carried 40-liter packs, a lightweight tent, and a camp stove. They stayed at a farmstead with permission, sleeping under the stars on a hay bale-covered field.

On Day 3, a sudden thunderstorm rolled in. They took shelter under a concrete bridge, ate a cold meal, and waited out the rain. “We didn’t have a satellite device,” Lena recalled, “but we had a paper map and knew exactly where we were. That’s why preparation matters.”

They ended their hike at Sioux Rapids with a meal at the local diner, where the owner recognized them from a photo on the BRTA Facebook page. “He gave us free pie,” Marcus laughed. “That’s the kind of hospitality you don’t get on the Appalachian Trail.”

Example 3: The Family Hike – The Chen Family

The Chens, a family of four from Rochester, Minnesota, hiked the 5-mile loop near Lake Shetek with their two children, ages 8 and 11. They brought a wagon for gear and snacks, and let the kids collect wildflowers (which they later planted in their backyard).

“We didn’t hike fast,” said mom Mei Chen. “We stopped to watch hawks, count prairie dogs, and find arrowheads. The kids learned more about nature in one day than they did in a month of school.”

The family left a thank-you note and a jar of homemade jam at the trailhead kiosk. “It’s not just a hike,” Mei said. “It’s a gift we give our children—to be quiet, to be curious, to be part of something bigger.”

FAQs

Is the Buffalo Ridge Trail marked well?

No, it is not consistently marked. While some sections have white blazes or signs, many rely on GPS waypoints and landowner permissions. Always carry a map and compass.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, but only on segments that allow pets. Always keep your dog on a leash. Many landowners prohibit dogs due to livestock. Check the BRTA map for pet-friendly zones.

Are there water sources along the trail?

Reliable water sources are extremely rare. Carry all the water you need. Some farm ponds exist, but water must be filtered or boiled before drinking.

Is camping allowed?

Camping is permitted only on public land or with explicit permission from private landowners. Do not camp on roadsides or in fields without consent. Use designated state park campgrounds if available.

What’s the best time of year to hike?

Fall (September–October) offers the most pleasant weather and the most scenic views. Spring is beautiful but muddy. Summer is hot and storm-prone. Winter is for experienced hikers only.

Do I need a permit?

No permit is required to hike the trail itself. However, if you plan to camp in a state park or use a trailhead with a parking fee, check with the managing agency.

What should I do if I get lost?

Stop. Stay calm. Use your GPS to reorient. If you can’t find your location, stay put and use your satellite communicator or whistle to signal for help. Do not wander.

Is the trail wheelchair accessible?

Most of the trail is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain, steep ridges, and lack of paved surfaces. However, the Lake Shetek State Park interpretive trail offers a short, accessible loop with views of the ridge.

Can I hike in groups?

Yes, but large groups (over 8 people) must notify the Buffalo Ridge Trail Association in advance. Group hikes can impact trail conditions and landowner relations.

Why is this trail important?

The Buffalo Ridge Trail preserves one of the last intact prairie ridge ecosystems in the Midwest. It connects fragmented habitats, supports biodiversity, and honors Indigenous and settler history. It’s a living archive of land and culture.

Conclusion

Hiking the Buffalo Ridge Trail is more than a physical journey—it’s a pilgrimage through time, wind, and quiet resilience. Unlike the crowded peaks of the Rockies or the iconic paths of the East Coast, this trail offers something rarer: authenticity. Here, you won’t find crowds, gift shops, or ranger stations. You’ll find open skies, whispering grasses, and the enduring presence of those who live and work on this land.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—planning with care, respecting private property, packing wisely, and leaving no trace—you become part of the trail’s legacy. You don’t just hike the Buffalo Ridge; you help sustain it.

As you stand atop the ridge, wind in your hair and the horizon stretching endlessly before you, remember: this landscape has witnessed centuries of change. Your footsteps are small, but your reverence is powerful. Tread gently. Listen deeply. And when you return home, tell others—not just about the trail, but about the land that gave you silence, strength, and perspective.

The Buffalo Ridge doesn’t need you to conquer it. It only asks that you honor it.