Did you know that 95% of Minnesota’s population lives less than 10 minutes from a body of water? With nearly 12,000 lakes scattered throughout our scenic state, there is no shortage of quiet beaches, overlooks, piers, urban towers, and waterfront trails from which to enjoy a stunning sunrise or sunset. But one beloved lake in Minnesota is uniquely poised to show off Mother Nature at her finest. For one of the best places to watch a sunset in Minnesota, visit Mille Lacs Lake and enjoy the show!
Stretching more than 200 square miles across eastern Minnesota, Mille Lacs Lake (or Lake Mille Lacs) is the state's second-largest inland lake. And for many, it's no surprise that this massive body of water is home to some equally impressive natural beauty - mille lacs is French for "thousand lakes," after all!
But while countless visitors come to the area to drink in the fall colors, enjoy fruitful fishing in every season, or get away from the hustle of the Twin Cities, this special slice of the Midwest is also home to something unexpected:
With such an expansive waterfront, Mille Lacs Lake feels like an ocean in the heart of Minnesota. Standing on the edge and looking across, the opposite shore is a distant memory! Uniquely, the size of the lake also creates its own distinct microclimate, which in turn allows some amazing opportunities to see the sky light up at sunset.
As thick water-laden clouds move across the sky and over the water, they burst open with beautiful hues of color and rays of sunlight. Vibrant, mesmerizing, and completely unobstructed, the viewing opportunities here are truly one of a kind!
Every sunset is different at Mille Lacs, and each colorful evening show brings its own element of surprise, joy, and wonder. From the moment the sun starts to drop towards the horizon…
This Minnesota lake holds a special place in our hearts as one of the most magnificent destinations for sunsets in the state – especially when viewed from your family's pontoon, like this photo taken by one of our editors.
Megan Shute/OnlyInYourState
If you're lucky, you might even catch a show after the sun has finished its descent!
Absolutely stunning! Be sure to add on a drive on the Lake Mille Lacs Scenic Byway as well! If you have any tips for catching an incredible sunset at Mille Lacs or around the state, let us know. Or, nominate your favorite places here.
Craving a Minnesota getaway without the crowds? Check out this little-known state park for some gorgeous nature and solitude.
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