9 Beautiful Minnesota Locations You Probably Didn't Know Existed
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Betsy Rathburn
Author
Take a step in every direction in Minnesota, and you’ll find something beautiful. From single Lake Superior agates to sweeping panoramic views, beauty comes in all forms in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. We all know of the state’s most spectacular spots – we’re looking at you, Gooseberry Falls – but there are some lesser known places that are equally beautiful. If you don’t mind putting in just a bit more work to see Minnesota’s hidden beauty, you’ll love these 9 beautiful Minnesota locations that you probably didn’t know existed.
Just a short walk from the visitor's center at Pipestone National Monument - a fascinating place to visit in its own right - is Winnewissa Falls. This lesser known waterfall tumbles over the unique pink quartzite cliffs that are found throughout this area of southwestern Minnesota. If you're ever in the neighborhood, be sure to stop for a chance to see this underrated waterfall.
Here's a lesser known spot that celebrates both Minnesota's beauty and its history. Visitors learn about the mining industry in Minnesota all the while enjoying the unique sight of one of the state's biggest pit mines. As an added bonus, you can even go fossil hunting here!
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Way up in northern Minnesota, Zippel Bay State Park is one of the most remote parks in the state. It's located right on Lake of the Woods and encompasses more than 3,000 acres of Minnesota beauty. There's plenty to see, great fishing, and even a white-sand swimming beach. This beautiful spot is a great summer vacation destination!
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Southern Minnesota is home to a couple of different caves - there's also the Mystery Cave - but Niagara is interesting for a few reasons. First, its smooth walls are unlike anything else in Minnesota. Second, this cave has a waterfall! It's not your typical pretty destination, but Niagara Cave holds . a beauty all its own.
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Central Minnesota may not be as popular a destination as somewhere like the North Shore, but don't let that stop you from visiting. One of the prettiest spots is at Quarry Park and Nature Preserve in Waite Park - just outside of St. Cloud. This spot has several beautiful quarry pools cut out of granite. It's a great place for hiking in all seasons and swimming in the summer.
Nicknamed the Little Yellowstone of Minnesota, Ramsey Park is the largest municipal park in Minnesota. It spans 256 acres and encompasses trails, picnic areas, and even a zoo. But its most beautiful attraction is Ramsey Falls, a little-known waterfall. The roaring water surrounded by woods is a sight to be seen.
Here's a spot in northern Minnesota that's unlike anywhere else in the state. Big Bog is a swampy area that is filled to the brim with interesting wildlife. It's a popular spot for birdwatching, and it's also home to strange native plants such as carnivorous sundews. If you're looking for somewhere a little out of the ordinary to visit, check out Big Bog.
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park is crisscrossed with lovely trails, but the star of the show is the beautiful Hidden Falls. The gentle trickle of this waterfall is gorgeous. The fact that, when you're there, you'll be surrounded by the quiet beauty of a Minnesota forest, makes it all the more beautiful.
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Interstate State Park is situated along the St. Croix River between Minnesota and Wisconsin. Anyone who visits will love the rugged dalles that line each side of the river. It's a great place for hiking, kayaking, and just enjoying the scenery.
As you can see, our beauty goes beyond lakes!
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