Climb The Observation Tower At Minnesota's Mille Lacs Kathio State Park For An Aerial View Of Fall Color
By Betsy Rathburn|Published October 10, 2019
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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.
Some of Minnesota’s best places to see fall colors are high above the trees! That’s certainly the case for the gorgeous gondola that takes you to the top of Moose Mountain. It also rings true for the Kerfoot Canopy Tour, where you can whisk through the trees high above the ground! Today, we want to introduce yet another aerial view of Minnesota’s changing leaves. This one takes the form of a 100-foot-tall fire tower at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park. Muster the courage to reach the top, and you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view. Read on to learn all you need to know about seeing fall colors at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park.
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park is a beautiful stretch of east-central Minnesota. It's located on the southwestern shores of Lake Mille Lacs.
Mille Lacs Kathio's forests are mostly made up of northern hardwoods. You'll find aspen, birch, maple, and oak within its borders. Come fall, the trees blaze with color.
About 35 miles of hiking trails criss-cross the park. For example, the 1-mile Landmark Trail will take you to ancient Native American villages as you trek through the colorful forest.
If you only have time for one activity, though, make a visit to the historic fire tower. It rises 100 feet above the ground, offering spectacular views of the tops of the trees - especially in the fall.
A series of long, steep staircases will take you to the top. It's a strenuous climb for many, and those with a fear of heights may not make it to the top.
According to the DNR Fall Color Finder, the leaves at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park usually peak within the first two weeks of October. Plan a trip to see one of the most beautiful sights in the state!