Top Rated Hiking trails in Minnesota: A Guide into the Wild.
Minnesota, with its diverse landscapes ranging from the North Woods and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness to the prairies of the southwest and the bluffs of the southeast, offers some of the best hiking opportunities in the United States. Here are some of the top hiking destinations in the state, each providing a unique experience:
1. Superior Hiking Trail
Stretching nearly 310 miles along the North Shore of Lake Superior from Duluth to the Canadian border, the Superior Hiking Trail offers breathtaking views of the lake, waterfalls, and dense forests. It's renowned for its scenic beauty and provides hikes of varying lengths and difficulties, including day hikes and backpacking options.
2. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW)
While known for canoeing, the BWCAW also offers incredible hiking opportunities, especially in areas like the Kekekabic Trail and the Border Route Trail. These trails offer a deep wilderness experience, with chances to see wildlife and enjoy the solitude of the northern woods.
3. Tettegouche State Park
Located on the North Shore of Lake Superior, Tettegouche State Park features rugged terrain with spectacular overlooks, waterfalls, and rivers. The park's hiking trails offer access to some of the most dramatic natural scenery in the state, including the High Falls of the Baptism River, the tallest waterfall entirely within Minnesota.
4. Itasca State Park
As the oldest state park in Minnesota, Itasca is home to the headwaters of the Mississippi River. The park features more than 30 miles of hiking trails through pine forests and around lakes, offering a mix of easy walks and more challenging hikes. It's a great place to experience Minnesota's diverse ecosystems.
5. Afton State Park
Located near the Twin Cities, Afton State Park offers a convenient escape into nature with over 20 miles of trails that wind through prairies, wooded ravines, and along the scenic St. Croix River. The park's trails range from easy to difficult, making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels.
6. Minnehaha Falls Regional Park
Situated in Minneapolis, this park is famous for the stunning 53-foot Minnehaha Falls. The park's trails offer an easy hike through a verdant gorge that feels worlds away from the urban environment surrounding it. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely hike followed by a picnic.
7. Gooseberry Falls State Park
Another gem along the North Shore, Gooseberry Falls State Park is known for its spectacular waterfalls, river gorge, and Lake Superior shoreline. The park has several miles of hiking trails, including easy walks to the falls and more challenging hikes along the rocky coast and through the surrounding forest.
8. Frontenac State Park
Offering stunning views of the Mississippi River and its bluffs, Frontenac State Park is located in southeastern Minnesota. The park features 13 miles of hiking trails with opportunities to see a wide variety of bird species, making it a favorite among birdwatchers.
These locations just scratch the surface of what Minnesota has to offer hikers. Whether you're looking for a short, scenic walk or a challenging wilderness trek, you're sure to find it in Minnesota's vast and varied landscapes.
