Total Recreation

Pack a bag, throw in the racket, tie down the bike, load the clubs, lace up the boots, head to Northfield and get ready for some action! No reason to sit still in Northfield with so many recreational activities that appeal to sports nuts, weekend athletes and nature-lovers alike.

Parks and playgrounds

Northfield boasts over 35 parks covering more than 400 acres of land. Within the parks, there are playgrounds, softball and soccer fields, picnic facilities, nature areas and trails for you to enjoy. The Carleton Arboretum has 800 acres of secluded woods and trails that meander through local hills and along the scenic Cannon River Valley. Nearby, the Cannon River Wilderness Area, Nerstrand Big Woods State Park and The Science Center at Maltby Nature Preserve offer plenty to see and do for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Trails to hike and bike

If you like to break a sweat, take a run along Northfield’s quiet streets, country lanes or our scenic 5K and 10K trails along the Cannon River. Bike the Mill Towns Trail between Sechler Park in Northfield and Dundas, or the Sakatah Singing Hills Trail that stretches 39 miles from nearby Faribault to Mankato.

Swinging things

Hit the outdoor tennis courts located at Northfield Senior High School and at Carleton and St. Olaf colleges. Golfers can choose from courses in town and around the area that appeal to those who want a challenge and the duffers who use an occasional foot wedge. Grab a full afternoon out on a course with mature, tree-lined fairways or an open, links-style course with spectacular views. And there’s plenty of places in Northfield to suit your 19th-hole pleasures. To get the total
package and still return home revived and rested, stay and play for a few
days in Northfield!