Minnesota, the Land of 10,000 Lakes, stretches from the bluffs and river valleys of the Mississippi's headwaters in the north to the rolling prairies and twin-cities metropolitan energy of the south. Minneapolis and Saint Paul together form one of the most livable metro areas in the United States — renowned for a world-class arts scene anchored by the Walker Art Center and Minnesota Orchestra, a craft beer culture rivaling any city its size, and skyway-connected neighborhoods that let residents and visitors move in comfort year-round. Beyond the cities, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness offers 1 million acres of roadless lakes and forest, the North Shore of Lake Superior delivers dramatic basalt cliffs and waterfalls, and the Iron Range preserves gritty mining heritage amid boreal pines.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Superior Hiking Trail (North Shore Segment — Gooseberry Falls to Split Rock)
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2
Cascade River State Park Loop
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3
Boundary Waters Canoe Area — Portage Trails
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4
Tettegouche State Park — Baptism River Hike
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5
Voyageurs National Park — Cruiser Lake Trail
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6
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park — Hidden Falls Loop
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7
Interstate State Park — Dalles of the St. Croix
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8
Itasca State Park — Mississippi River Headwaters Loop
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.
Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.
Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.