Minnesota is full of adventure! In every region of the state, you can find awesome things to do. When it comes to state parks, the North Shore gets most of the attention. And it makes sense: these parks are filled with stunning waterfalls, high cliffs, churning rivers, and more. But there are other regions that offer just as much beauty. Today, we want to suggest a three-day road trip across another part of the state. Head south of the Twin Cities to spend three days in three state parks on this fun, nature-filled weekend road trip. Check it out:

This road trip starts in Mankato and ends in Frontenac along Minnesota's eastern border. It spans about 110 miles and includes around 2 hours of driving time, making it an easy trip that doesn't include too much time in the car. For the full route, including driving directions, click here.
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The first stop on this weekend adventure is Minneopa State Park.
Doug Kerr/Flickr
This state park covers more than 4,000 acres near Mankato, Minnesota. With several miles of hiking trails, it's a popular place to while away a day.
Syndol Mae/AllTrails
The park's most famous - and most popular -attraction is Minneopa Falls. This gorgeous waterfall comes in two parts. Visitors can easily walk up to see the Upper Falls, which tumble 10 feet over a small wall of rock.
Syndol Mae/AllTrails
The water then flows into the Lower Falls, which falls 39 feet into a deep gorge below. A picturesque bridge offers amazing views - and is a lovely view itself. There's also a wide viewing platform as well as a more rugged path down to the base of the waterfall. Simply put, the view is stunning!
Iain/Flickr
Beyond the waterfalls, Minneopa State Park has another interesting attraction: its bison herd. There's a drive-thru bison area where visitors can see the herd up close! When you're done for the day, try camping in one of the park's many camping areas or lodging in one of Mankato's many places to stay.
On the second day of this weekend excursion, head to Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, about 62 miles northeast of Minneopa.
Tony Webster/Flickr

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Brett Whaley/Flickr
Covering around 2,800 acres, this state park has plenty to explore. With trails leading through the thick, lush forest, any hike you take here will be beautiful. The tree canopy offers plenty of shade, and the ground is full of interesting foliage.
NatureNerd/Flickr
Look closely, and you'll see some of the wide range of organisms that grow in the woods. You may spot beautiful wildflowers, including the endangered dwarf trout lily. Many other wildflowers, interesting mushrooms, lovely songbirds, and more can be spotted here!
Wendy Bruchez/AllTrails
After enjoying the scenery along the Hidden Falls Trail, an unexpected sight comes into view. The beautiful Hidden Falls is tucked away in the woods. This 20-foot waterfall is not the state's tallest or largest, but its location surrounded by a thick forest makes it one of the most beautiful! After this hike, guests can enjoy many others that lead to bridges, creeks, open floodplains, and more. When you've had your fill, set up in one of the park's many campsites.
The final leg of the road trip ends at Frontenac State Park, about 45 miles east of Nerstrand Big Woods.
Frontenac State Park/Google
Danielle Brigida/Flickr
Frontenac is a lesser-known state park along Minnesota's eastern border. It covers more than 2,000 acres next to the Mississippi River! Many visit this park for bird-watching. More than 260 species of birds have been spotted there!
Tony Webster/Flickr
Aside from bird-watching, this is also a great park for hiking. A bluff in the park rises 430 feet over the river, offering spectacular views. There are many places to enjoy the scenery as you hike along the wooded, bird-filled trails.
Jill/Blue Moonbeam Studio/Flickr
At the top, the incredible view of the Mississippi River is laid out for visitors to take in. There are amazing places to picnic or simply sit and enjoy the view. You can even camp on top of the bluff. This hike is an awesome way to cap off your weekend of adventure!

Have you been to any of these parks? What stops would you add to the trip? Let us know in the comments! And if you are still itching for a North Shore adventure, after all, check out our Minnesota North Shore road trip.

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Featured Addresses
Minneopa State Park, 54497 Gadwall Rd, Mankato, MN 56001, USA
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, 170th Street East, Nerstrand, MN, USA
Frontenac, MN, USA