Minnesota
There are over 13,000 miles of trails in Minnesota
Most popular trails:
The North Shore Scenic Drive: This scenic drive offers stunning views of Lake Superior and the Sawtooth Mountains.
The Superior Hiking Trail: This long-distance trail offers a variety of hiking options in northeastern Minnesota.
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness: This wilderness area offers opportunities for hiking, camping, canoeing, and fishing.
The Itasca State Park: This park is home to the headwaters of the Mississippi River.
The Minnehaha Falls: These waterfalls are located in Minneapolis and are a popular tourist destination.
Best trails for certain activities:
Rock climbing: The Vertical Endeavors Climbing Gym in Minneapolis is a great place for rock climbing.
Mountain biking: The Cuyuna Lakes State Recreation Area is a great place for mountain biking.
Hiking with dogs: Many of the trails in Minnesota are dog-friendly.
Birdwatching: The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is home to a variety of birds, making it a great place for birdwatching.
Picnicking: Many of the trails in Minnesota offer opportunities for picnicking.
Camping: There are over 200 campgrounds in the Minnesota National Forests.
Wildlife watching: The Minnesota National Forests are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, moose, bear, wolves, and eagles.
Cross-country skiing: Cross-country skiing is allowed on designated trails in the Minnesota National Forests during the winter.
Snowshoeing: Snowshoeing is allowed on designated trails in the Minnesota National Forests during the winter.
Most challenging trails:
The Superior Hiking Trail: Some of the trails in the Superior Hiking Trail are challenging, due to the steep terrain and exposed cliffs.
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness: Some of the trails in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness are challenging, due to the rugged terrain and the need to carry all of your gear.
The Itasca State Park: The Devil's Kettle Trail in Itasca State Park is a challenging hike, due to the steep climb to the top of the falls and the need to cross the river several times.
Most scenic trails:
The North Shore Scenic Drive: This scenic drive offers stunning views of Lake Superior and the Sawtooth Mountains.
The Superior Hiking Trail: This long-distance trail offers a variety of hiking options in northeastern Minnesota, with stunning views of the lakes, forests, and mountains.
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness: This wilderness area offers opportunities for hiking, camping, canoeing, and fishing, with stunning views of the lakes, forests, and mountains.
The Itasca State Park: This park is home to the headwaters of the Mississippi River, and offers opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and boating.
The Minnehaha Falls: These waterfalls are located in Minneapolis and offer stunning views of the city skyline.
Most family-friendly trails:
The North Shore Scenic Drive: This scenic drive is a great option for families, as there are many pull-offs and viewpoints where you can stop to enjoy the views.
The Lakewalk in Duluth: This paved trail is a great option for families, as it is easy to walk or bike and offers stunning views of Lake Superior.
The Itasca State Park: This park has a variety of trails that are suitable for families, including the Interpretive Trail and the Beaver Pond Trail.
The Minnehaha Falls: These waterfalls are a popular tourist destination and are a great place for families to take a walk and enjoy the scenery.
Most accessible trails:
The Lakewalk in Duluth: This paved trail is accessible to wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
The Itasca State Park: This park has a number of accessible trails, including the Interpretive Trail and the Beaver Pond Trail.
The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge has a number of accessible trails, including the Marsh Trail and the Oak Savanna Trail.
Where to get permits for trails:
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources: You can contact the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for permits to hike on trails in state parks and forests.(651)-296-6157 or (888)-646-6367
National Park Service: You can contact the National Park Service for permits to hike on trails in national parks.
U.S. Forest Service: You can contact the U.S. Forest Service for permits to hike on trails in national forests.
