It’s officially that time of the year when we Minnesotans dedicate our weekends to getting outdoors to bask in the healing energy of spring. Whether you’re planning a day trip or looking for a camping spot, these 5 Minnesota state parks are ideal destinations for exploring the endless beauty of the land of 10,000 lakes.
Photography provided by Explore Minnesota
Voyageurs National Park
International Falls
Voyageurs National Park beckons adventure seekers. The landscape is breathtaking, with water making up a majority of the park’s 218,000 acres. Enjoy a boat tour with a park ranger or hike the 27+ miles of scenic trails.
Tettegouche State Park
Silver Bay
Tettegouche is a spectacular destination boasting 23+ miles of hiking trails and Minnesota’s highest waterfall. Hike in to the rental cabins on Mic Mac Lake or drive to the Illgen Falls Cabin for a weekend stay.
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
Onamia
A favorite of hikers and horseback riders, Mille Lacs Kathio is an outstanding park with a wooded trail system. It offers a range of different campsites, a swimming beach, an observation tower and boat access onto Shakopee Lake.
Whitewater State Park
Altura
Discover the beauty of Minnesota’s bluff lands at Whitewater State Park. It features six scenic overlooks and 10 miles of hiking, plus it’s a favorite trout fishing spot. Be sure to check out the new visitor center.
Jay Cooke State Park
Carlton
Hike the historic Grand Portage of the St. Louis River at Jay Cooke State Park. Adventurers can enjoy 50 miles of hiking trails, eight miles of biking trails, six miles of horse trails and scenic views throughout.
