20 Epic Outdoorsy Things In Minnesota Anyone Can Do
By Jo Magliocco
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Published May 23, 2016
Most Minnesotans love exploring nature, but not all of us are built for extreme sports or even long hikes. But we needn’t worry because many of our favorite outdoor attractions are not only easy to explore, but accessible for everyone. Now that we know about these places, there’s no excuse to hold back when it comes to experiencing the best of Minnesota’s natural beauty.
1. Explore Historic Forestville and the Mystery Cave in southeastern Minnesota for a day of real adventure. The one hour stroller and wheelchair accessible scenic tour of the cave is only $7 for children and $12 for adults.
2. Play disc golf! There are many free courses throughout the state, several in regional parks, and all you need is the disc for hours of entertainment.
3. Explore a sculpture garden. Franconia, the Walker, and the Anderson Center are all good choices. The Anderson Center even has paved, accessible trails to help everyone enjoy the acres of art.
4. Visit one of our stunning gardens like Munsinger/Clemens or the Duluth Rose Garden. They have beautiful blooms in the spring and summer, and the fall colors are usually spectacular too.
5. You can also head to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum for even more fabulous scenery.
6. Swim at the Canden State Park spring fed lake. The beach is beautiful and sandy, and the water is crystal clear!
7. In the winter, go tap a tree and make syrup! It takes time, but the payoff is always sweet!
8. Hang a hammock by the water. Nothing is more relaxing than letting the hours slip away while you relax between the trees.
9. Cross the Stone Arch Bridge for a new view of Minneapolis. Embrace the city's history and culture with a trip to the iconic bridge, which is accessible to everyone.
10. Visit the Vince Shute Bear Sanctuary and walk near these beautiful bears. It is easy to access these cute creatures, and kids especially love watching them play.
11. See the animals at the free Como Zoo! It is a wonderful place for kids to interact with animals and you can't beat the price of a donation!
Flickr/Amy Meredith
12. Tour the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway. See the cities like never before with a trip through the woods and lakes that weave throughout our largest metropolitan area.
13. Take a scenic riverboat tour. On the St. Croix or on the Mississippi, you can find riverboat tours for less than $20 per person!
14. See the Mississippi Headwaters at Itasca State Park. The short, wide trail is easy for anyone to navigate, and the daring can even cross the very beginning of this great river.
15. Check out Minnehaha Falls! With an equally stunning park to match it, the falls can be viewed from multiple spots. Most of the views from above are wheelchair accessible.
16. Explore Gooseberry Falls! Everyone's favorite North Shore falls are also accessible via a short paved trail that offers unreal views of the cascading water.
17. Tour Canal Park in Duluth. Experience the history of the port and marvel at the shore and bridge. All the paths along the lake walk are accessible.
18. See Palisade Head even further on the North Shore. It is easy to get to and the views are out of this world.
19. Explore Pipestone National Monument. A less than 1 mile accessible path serves as the main byway to experience the history of this stunning monument.
20. Float in one of MN's premier swimming holes. Hop on a raft and enjoy the quarries and mine lakes for their clear, cool waters.
Where are you going to explore next?
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