There is so much beautiful land in Minnesota, it’s nearly impossible to explore it all. But there are some places you just can’t miss. Places where you’ll find yourself completely surrounded by serene wilderness, and you won’t find another soul for miles. Places that nobody else seems to know about, or appreciate.

Some of the best places in Minnesota are gardens and natural areas. Between the state’s Scientific & Natural Areas and Wildlife Management Areas alone on any given day we have miles and miles of empty land just waiting to be explored. Here are some of those miles that you should definitely visit!

1. Noerenberg Memorial Gardens on the shores of Crystal Bay on Lake Minnetonka are as tranquil as they come.
Flickr/m01229
2. Bluestem Prairie SNA in Northwestern MN is 1,310 acres of heaven in the middle of a massive conservation area.
Flickr/Justin Meissen
3. Sugarloaf Point SNA on the North Shore is a one-of-a-kind place with unforgettable views and tranquil beaches.
Flickr/Justin Meissen
4. Iona's Beach SNA between Gooseberry Falls State Park and Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. When you go, see if you can identify the unique noise the pebbles make when the water moves them.
Flickr/Justin Meissen
5. And while you're at Iona's Beach, enjoy the rocks that overlook some of Lake Superior's most beautiful areas.
Flickr/Justin Meissen
6. The Caribou WMA in northern Minnesota is home to some of the most spectacular aspen parkland.
Flickr/Justin Meissen

Related Stories

This Blink-And-You’ll-Miss-It Town In Minnesota Is So Worth Exploring

This Blink-And-You’ll-Miss-It Town In Minnesota Is So Worth Exploring

 This Twin Cities Nature Sanctuary Makes For The Perfect Minnesota Day Trip

This Twin Cities Nature Sanctuary Makes For The Perfect Minnesota Day Trip

 I've Lived In Minnesota My Entire Adult Life And I've Never Had Smelt

I've Lived In Minnesota My Entire Adult Life And I've Never Had Smelt
7. George Crosby Manitou State Park in Northeast MN is one of the most secluded State Parks and full of stunning views you never thought you could find in such a low altitude state!
Flickr/Justin Meissen
8. Falls Creek SNA provides a truly unique experience on the St. Croix, with wooded ravines and stream beds.
Flickr/Justin Meissen
9. Tympanuchus WMA near Crookston is 848 acres of recreation opportunity and endless views!
Flickr/Justin Meissen
10. Climbing the bluffs at Maple Springs on Lake Pepin will give you phenomenal Mississippi views without the crowds.
Flickr/Jerry Huddleston
11. The St. Croix State Forest is 42,152 of remote beauty on the Minnesota-Wisconsin border and an amazing place for all kinds of recreation!
Flickr/Justin Meissen
12. The western prairie of Minnesota provides a true escape from its populated eastern counterpart.
Flickr/Justin Meissen
13. Taking a break from the lighthouse view at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park will provide you with serene waterfalls and creek views you never knew about.
Flickr/Justin Meissen

Whether you’re exploring the remote wilderness or visiting your favorite local park, you’ll never feel as peaceful as you do in Minnesota nature. But there really is nothing better than having an enchanting spot to enjoy that nobody else has heard of! Where is your favorite secluded spot in MN nature?

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles