7 Natural Wonders Unique To The North Star State That Should Be On Everyone's Minnesota Bucket List

Minnesota is full of beauty! In every region of the state, natural wonders abound. They include waterfalls, lakes, forests, prairies, and more. There’s so much to see here in the North Star State that it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we created this natural wonders bucket list. It’ll help you get started in exploring the uniquely Minnesotan natural wonders that everyone should see at least once. Read on below to check out the list:

Joe Ennesser/Flickr

Gooseberry Falls is one of Minnesota's most popular waterfalls! And it's no wonder, thanks to its beautiful triple drop over rugged cliffs into a beautiful pool below. If you follow the water's path through the lush surrounding woods, you'll soon find yourself on the shores of Lake Superior. This iconic sight is a must-visit spot for any Minnesotan.

Sharon Somero/Flickr

If you're looking for a unique adventure, head underground at Mystery Cave State Park. Here, you'll take an elevator below the earth's surface and be delivered into the longest cave in Minnesota. Guided tours let visitors explore the 13-mile-long cave. There are many interesting formations, including a fascinating pool of still blue water.

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Priya Saihgal/Flickr

Southern Minnesota has some beautiful waterfalls, but the most impressive is likely Minneopa Falls at Minneopa State Park. This double waterfall starts with a 10-foot drop that then quickly flows into a spectacular, 39-foot tumble into the rocky gorge below. A picturesque bridge lets visitors enjoy the view up close, as does a trail leading down to the base of the waterfall.

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Northfielder/Flickr

There are many beautiful vantage points along the entire perimeter of Lake Superior. In Minnesota, Palisade Head just might be one of the most beautiful. It offers spectacular views not only of the lake's choppy waves, but of the rugged cliffs that line its North Shore. In the distance, the tree-covered Shovel Point juts out into the water. Beyond it, the shoreline stretches into the distance, offering even more beauty to the scene. If you love visiting the North Shore, a visit to Palisade Head is a must.

Doug Kaye/Flickr

One of Minnesota's enduring mysteries - though it has since been solved - was where the water of Devils Kettle disappeared after flowing into a deep hole in the rock. Though the answer is now known - it goes downstream along the Brule River - but Devils Kettle remains a one-of-a-kind attraction that every Minnesotan should see at least once.

Anita Gould/Flickr

Not many places have an urban waterfall, and even fewer have one as beautiful as Minnehaha Falls. This waterfall is so notable that it's even been included in famous poems! The rushing waters of Minnehaha Creek drop 53 feet over a high cliff surrounded by trees and lush foliage. A bridge at the base of the falls offers a spectacular view for those who choose to hike into the gorge. But if you'd prefer to stay up high, a viewing platform makes this must-see waterfall easy to enjoy.

Tony Webster/Flickr

With an area of more than 1 million acres, the Boundary Waters is a bucket list destination for anyone who loves the outdoors, especially hikers and paddlers. With hundreds of lakes, hundreds of miles of paddling routes, and the wild forests of northern Minnesota, this place is full of adventure. If you're planning a journey through Minnesota's best natural areas, a trip to the Boundary Waters is a must.

Have you visited any of these Minnesota natural wonders? Which are your favorites? What would you add to the list? Let us know in the comments and by filling out our nomination form.