The 14 Most Incredible Natural Attractions In Minnesota That Everyone Should Visit
By Betsy Rathburn
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Published July 08, 2017
Including our lakes, Minnesota stretches across more than 86,000 square miles. Look hard enough, and you can find beauty in just about every one of those square miles. Between our 10,000 lakes, 62 state parks, and dozens of other regional parks, the North Star State is a feast for the eyes. These 14 incredible natural attractions in Minnesota prove just that. Check them out:
1. Baptism River High Falls
Tettegouche State Park is a pretty popular summer pitstop in Minnesota - for good reason. It is home to some incredible natural sights, including the impressive Baptism River.
The river flows for nearly 9 miles before it flows over a 60-foot drop, making it the largest waterfall entirely within Minnesota.
For more information, read our full article
here .
2. Sugar Loaf
Southern Minnesota is home to many interesting rock formations, not least of which is Winona's Sugar Loaf. The pinnacle itself rises 80 feet over the rest of the bluff and 500 feet above Lake Winona. It's a gorgeous landmark that has fascinated tourists for decades.
For more information, read our full article
here .
3. Pigeon River High Falls
If you're willing to drive just about as far north as you can get, you'll find one of Minnesota's most breathtaking sites. On the Minnesota-Ontario border, the Pigeon River plummets 120 feet over a wall of rock. It's located in Grand Portage State Park at the end of a short, paved trail in Grand Portage State Park.
For more information, read our full article
here .
4. Mystery Cave
The grand finale of a tour of the Mystery Cave is a look at the most still pool of water you'll ever see. But your entire visit will be full of wonder, from up-close looks at stalagmites to ancient flowstone. You'll even get the chance to see what the cave is like in total darkness. If you'll looking for a cool trip, this is it.
For more information, read our full article
here .
5. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is one of Minnesota's greatest treasures. The area spans over one million acres of unadulterated wilderness. You'll cross still lakes, hike quiet woods, see the stars, and maybe even catch a glimpse of a wild animal or two.
For more information, read our full article
here .
6. Minneopa Falls
Minneopa Falls is located in Minnesota's third-oldest state park, Minneopa State Park. The park shows its age with several historic structures built in the 1930s, a few of which are on the National Register of Historic Places. But the highlight is definitely Minneopa Falls has two drops - one 7 feet, and one 39 feet. Between the drops is a long, stone bridge. It's the perfect spot for a photo op - or just a quiet moment to enjoy the scenery.
For more information, read our full article
here .
7. Eagle Mountain
What's more beautiful than a view from above? That's what you'll get when you climb Eagle Mountain, Minnesota's tallest point. Luckily, the gentle hike is only a few miles long with a moderate increase in steepness right before the summit.
For more information, read our full article
here .
8. Deer Lake
Which lake in Minnesota is the most blue? With over 10,000 lakes on the list, that is a daunting question to answer. Luckily, you don't have to. Deer Lake in Itasca County is often cited as the bluest lake in the state. Once you see its bright aqua color, you'll understand why.
For more information, read our full article
here .
9. Iona's Beach
Even at first glance, you can tell that Iona's Beach is special. The pink rocks are unlike anything else on the north shore. And when the waves wash against the rocks, they click together to make a gentle tinkling sound. It's one of those things you have to see to understand. Lucky for Minnesotans, the beach is easily accessible from Highway 61 along the North Shore.
For more information, read our full article
here .
10. Minnehaha Falls
Eric Hanson/Flickr
For being an urban waterfall, Minnehaha Falls is pretty impressive. So impressive, in fact, that it attracts more than 850,000 visitors each year. The 53-foot waterfall is viewable from above, or visitors can choose to climb down a long set of stairs for a closer look.
For more information, read our full article
here .
11. Devil's Kettle
The mystery of Devil's Kettle may have been solved, but that doesn't make it any less of a Minnesota natural landmark. The question of where the Brule River disappears to once it enters the kettle has fascinated visitors for decades, and this famous spot will likely remain a popular destination for years to come.
For more information, read our full article
here .
12. St. Croix River Dalles
Along with lakes, Minnesota is also home to many important rivers. One of the most beautiful, the St. Croix, is full of incredible scenery that is a must-see for any Minnesotan. The river dalles of the St. Croix in Interstate State Park are particularly stunning. The cliffs are popular spots for climbing, hiking, and kayaking.
For more information, read our full article
here .
13. Voyageurs National Park
We would be remiss not to mention Minnesota's only national park. It's especially unique because most of its land area is only accessible by boat. This makes the park a great spot for anglers, campers, and anyone who wants to find some solitude.
For more information, read our full article
here .
14. Mississippi River Bluffs
The Mighty Mississippi starts its journey at the gorgeous Itasca State Park in northern Minnesota. But the route it winds through the rest of the state is also beautiful. In southern Minnesota, it flows between scenic river bluffs that give the region a totally unique landscape. Visitors can choose to view these natural attractions from afar or climb them for a bird's-eye view of the breathtaking scenery.
For more information, read our full article
here .
Have you ever visited any of these natural attractions? Which was your favorite?
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