Itasca State Park Is The Single Best State Park In Minnesota And It's Just Waiting To Be Explored
By Betsy Rathburn|Published June 30, 2021
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Betsy Rathburn
Author
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
Here in Minnesota, it’s not hard to find an amazing state park to explore. After all, our state has more than 60 of them! All are fantastic to visit for hiking, camping, boating, and more. But some stand out above the rest, including Itasca State Park, Minnesota’s first-ever state park. Travel + Leisure recently named it the best state park in the state thanks to its many lakes and more. Read on below to learn all that you’ll find at this gorgeous park.
Itasca State Park is a popular park in northern Minnesota. As Minnesota's oldest state park, it's been drawing visitors since 1891. It's the second-oldest state park in the United States!
You'll quickly see why this park is so special. For one thing, it is home to more than 100 lakes across its nearly 33,000 acres. They're great for fishing, canoeing, or simply relaxing.
Many trails crisscross the park. In fact, there are 49 miles of hiking trails throughout Itasca State Park. They lead through forests, along lakes, and to historic buildings.
As you hike any of the trails, you're likely to come across many different plant and animal species. Lady's slippers are commonly spotted, as are many other types of wildflowers. As for wildlife, visitors have spotted many birds, white-tailed deer, and even black bears!
And even if it isn't wildflower season, you're likely to see some color. Visit in the fall to see the changing leaves. This is one of Minnesota's prettiest parks in the autumn!
Of course, Itasca State Park is most famous for being the site of the headwaters of the Mississippi River. There's even a sign commemorating the spot. Gather together around it for a classic Minnesota family portrait!
Another great photo opportunity is the walk across the headwaters. It's lined with stones that most visitors can easily make their way across. It's one of the only places where it's possible to walk across the Mighty Mississippi!
Have you ever been to Itasca State Park? What was your favorite part? Let us know in the comments! And if you’re looking for somewhere a bit off the beaten path, check out our past list of 11 lesser-known state parks in Minnesota.
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