With more than 10,000 lakes, immense forests and rugged bluffs, Minnesota is an exciting outpost for outdoor lovers of all kinds. From catching a northern lights show in the state’s first International Dark Sky Park to hiking winding trails that lead to breathtaking overlooks, there’s a nearly endless list of experiences you can tap during the state’s most vibrant season. Here, we’ve curated some of the top outdoor destinations across Minnesota for unmatched adventure this season.
Photography provided by Explore Minnesota/Alyssa Hei
Trout Fishing in Preston
Our great state offers more than 3,800 miles of quality, well-managed trout streams to lure anglers, but many flock to southeastern Minnesota where brook trout grow larger than their North Shore counterparts. Preston, which has been fondly dubbed Minnesota’s trout capital, is a hot spot for all things fishing. While best known for its nine-hole fishing course for anglers, the destination is also ripe with family-friendly educational and recreational activities, making it perfect for a day trip for the whole crew.
Photography provided by Explore Minnesota/Minnesota Discovery Center
Riding in Redhead Mountain Bike Park
Chisholm’s Redhead Mountain Bike Park is a lesser known attraction that draws mountain bikers from across the country for unmatched off-road fun. Carved from the walls of an abandoned water-filled mine pit, the public park offers outdoor enthusiasts an oasis of adventure seven days a week, year-round. Redhead’s 25 miles of handcrafted, purpose-built mountain bike trails provide a space for both mountain biking junkies and those who dabble. Difficulty ranges from beginner to expert level, providing a wide array of terrain features and options for riders to test out their skills.
Photography provided by Explore Minnesota
Rock Climbing in Blue Mounds State Park
Just north of Luverne in the southwest corner of the state, Blue Mounds State Park is distinguished by its 1,500 acres of ancient prairie and one of the last remaining herds of purebred bison in the world. This picturesque spot sits on top of a massive, dramatic cliff of Sioux quartzite, making it a popular destination for rock climbing. Visitors can gear up and tackle a range of climbing experiences, from top roping to bouldering.
Photography provided by Swiftwater Adventures
Rafting the St. Louis River
River adventure can often fly under-the-rader in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, but there’s plenty to explore. The St. Louis River touts three high-profile outfitters that ensure easy access to Minnesota’s premier paddling expeditions. From Minnesota Whitewater Rafting and Swiftwater Adventures near Duluth to Hard Water Sports in Sandstone, these expert guide services offer experiences that range from casual lazy river floating to pulse-racing whitewater excursions. Plan a fun day on the river with the whole family or challenge yourself to embark on an adrenaline-fueled adventure.
Photography provided by Explore Minnesota
Windsurfing in Worthington
Staking its claim to “the best wind in the Midwest,” Worthington is near Buffalo Ridge in southwest Minnesota. In the heart of the quaint town sits Lake Okabena, a 975-acre lake touting strong prairie winds that can reach speeds of 15 knots, making it ideal for windsurfing. So much so that the town holds an annual Windsurfing Regatta & Music Festival and has even hosted the U.S. Windsurfing National Championships. But beginners need not shy away, local world-renowned instructors offer lessons, providing equipment and instruction on land before getting in the water.
Photography provided by Explore Minnesota
Fossil Hunting in Fillmore County
What could be more enticing to collecting enthusiasts than fossils older than dinosaurs! At Whispering Winds in Spring Valley, you can tour fossil collections of ancient sea creatures including Gastropods, Cephalopods, Trilobites, Bryozoans and Brachiopods. Adventurers can explore three different sites for hunting — all within seven miles of the town — to collect their own fossil treasures. It’s the perfect excursion for geology buffs or families alike.
Photography provided by Explore Minnesota
See the Northern Lights in Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park is a newly certified International Dark Sky Park offering expansive views of unpolluted skies from its waterways. Visitors can see impressive meteor showers and vibrant northern lights shows if they time it right. More than a third of this remote 218,000-acre national park is covered in water and presents primetime night sky viewing, removing any risk of interruption. Charter a houseboat or book a campsite and keep your eyes on the sky for a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience.
