Minnesota boasts 66 state parks, many of which are home to popular day hikes. If you are a fit and active person living in Minnesota, or just visiting the state, consider spending a day hiking in a state park. Whether you are camping near the Lake of the Woods or living somewhere near Minneapolis, there is a state park nearby for you to enjoy.
Near Lake Superior
George H. Crosby Manitou State Park offers day hikes in the backcountry, featuring waterfalls and opportunities to view wildlife. The park features 24 miles of hiking trails, including the 3.2-mile Manitou River Trail, a section of the Superior Hiking Trail. The trail ranges from medium to difficult, offering views of Lake Superior from overlooks.
Near Moorhead
For something completely different, visit the prairies of Buffalo River State Park. Located near Moorhead and Fargo, North Dakota, Buffalo River State Park offers 12 miles of trails. These trails lead you over flat terrain, taking you across the prairie, through meadows filled with wildflowers and into riverine forest. Bird enthusiasts will especially enjoy this park where you can see bobolinks and marbled godwits.
Near the Twin Cities
If you want somewhere to hike near the Twin Cities, consider visiting Afton State Park. With 20 miles of trails that wind through oak savannas, forests and prairie, you will find it hard to believe a major metropolis is just nearby. There is also a .6-mile handicapped-accessible trail available here, as well as a .75-mile interpretive trail for kids and education buffs.
In the North Country
If you want to combine a hiking trip with a swim, visit Lake Bemidji State Park. Featuring a unique habitat, the park is home to a 1-mile boardwalk trail that takes you through a bog. If you visit between late May and mid July, you will see numerous species of orchid in bloom, including the beautiful lady slipper orchid.
Time Frame
Summer and early fall are the best times to hike in Minnesota's state parks. Due to its northern location, Minnesota can be quite cold in the winter and many of its state parks are covered with snow, making hiking impossible. Summers are generally mild in Minnesota, so you don't have to worry about extreme heat if you're visiting then.
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