The Devil’s Kettle, Judge C.R. Magney State Park
It’s a bit of a hike, and a lot of steps, to see one of the real geological oddities of Minnesota, the Devil’s Kettle at Magney State Park.
Tom Bartel
The Waterfalls at Tettegouche State Park
If you want a view of the highest waterfall in Minnesota at Tettegouche State Park, be prepared for an uphill hike of 1.5 miles, one way. If you want to see the park’s other falls, the hike follows about five miles of trails.
The Historic Split Rock Lighthouse
The historic Split Rock Lighthouse was built in response to the disastrous shipwrecks of 1905. It served its purpose until 1969 until modern marine navigational technology made lighthouses obsolete.
Itasca State Park, Headwaters of the Mississippi River
The oldest – and most iconic – Minnesota State Park is Itasca State Park, the headwaters of the Mississippi River. You can’t say you’ve been there if you haven’t walked across the river.
Hiking Lake Shetek State Park
Lake Shetek is the largest lake in southwestern Minnesota and the Lake Shetek State Park that borders its east side makes for ample recreation opportunities.
A Walk in Blue Mounds State Park
The Blue Mounds State Park in the far southwest corner of the state can be at once one of the less difficult yet most rewarding of the Minnesota State Parks trails.
Blue Mounds and Minneopa State Park, near Mankato, are the two parks where bison have been reintroduced, so there’s an obvious added attraction–if you’re lucky enough to get close enough to get a good look.
The Pipestone National Monument
The Pipestone National Monument in southwestern Minnesota is the site of ancient quarries where Native Americans have dug out stone used for the carving of their ritual pipes.
The Jeffers Petroglyphs Historical Site
The Jeffers Petroglyphs stone carvings in southwestern Minnesota preserve insights into the lives of the earliest residents of Minnesota.
An Uphill Hike at Afton State Park
Afton State Park is one of four state parks that are easy drives from the Twin Cities in Minnesota. Find scenic overlooks and a variety of hikes.
The Oliver Kelley Historic Farm, Elk River
The Oliver Kelley historical farm makes a great half day outing, especially for small children. You can also take optional hikes along the Mississippi River and into the adjacent prairie.