Best Road Trip Stops in Minnesota
The whole point of going on a road trip is to explore and be able to see many parts of the country/world that you would miss out on flying on a plane. But sometimes you wonder, what are those amazing places and things that we should see? Well if you’re planning a road trip that’s going to or through Minnesota then buckle up and read on for the best road trip stops in this state.
Minneopa State Park
When planning a road trip through Minnesota, make sure to add a stop at Minneopa State Park to your itinerary. This beautiful park, located just outside of Mankato, offers a wide range of activities and attractions that will make your visit memorable.
One of the main highlights of Minneopa State Park is its stunning waterfalls. The park boasts two breathtaking waterfalls that are definitely worth a visit. The Lower Falls is a 6-foot drop that cascades into a pool below, creating a picturesque scene. The Upper Falls, on the other hand, is a more impressive sight, with a 40-foot drop that will leave you in awe. Both falls offer great photo opportunities and are easily accessible from the park’s hiking trails.
Speaking of hiking, Minneopa State Park offers several well-maintained trails that allow visitors to explore the park’s diverse landscape. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, there is a trail for everyone. The Bison Trail is a popular choice, as it takes you through the park’s bison range, where you can observe these majestic animals up close. For a longer hike, try the Seppmann Mill Trail, which leads you to an old windmill and provides panoramic views of the surrounding area.
If you’re interested in wildlife, Minneopa State Park is a great place to spot a variety of animals. Along with the bison, the park is home to deer, foxes, coyotes, and a wide range of bird species. Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the park, and you may be rewarded with some incredible wildlife sightings.
Boundary Waters
Located in the northern part of Minnesota, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a must-visit destination for any road trip through the state. This pristine and vast wilderness area offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and breathtaking natural beauty.
One of the best road trip stops in Minnesota, the Boundary Waters is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With over one million acres of untouched wilderness, it is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. There are several lakes and rivers within the Boundary Waters that offer excellent canoeing and kayaking opportunities. Paddling through the calm waters surrounded by towering pine trees and rugged cliffs is a truly unforgettable experience. The area is also known for its excellent fishing, with abundant populations of walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and lake trout.
For those who prefer to explore on foot, the Boundary Waters offers a vast network of hiking trails. These trails take you through diverse landscapes, including dense forests, rocky ridges, and serene lakeshores. One of the most popular trails is the Kekekabic Trail, a 41-mile long-distance trail that offers stunning vistas and challenging terrain.
Camping in the Boundary Waters is an experience like no other. With over 2,000 designated campsites scattered throughout the area, you can find the perfect spot to set up camp and immerse yourself in the wilderness. The campsites are often equipped with fire rings and pit toilets, but there are no amenities such as electricity or running water, allowing you to truly disconnect from modern conveniences.
If you’re up for a more leisurely activity, the Boundary Waters is also an excellent place for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. The area is home to moose, black bears, wolves, and a variety of bird species. Keep your eyes peeled for these majestic creatures as you navigate through the wilderness. To fully enjoy your time in the Boundary Waters, it is essential to be well-prepared. Make sure to pack all the necessary camping gear, including a tent, sleeping bag, and cooking supplies. It is also crucial to bring enough food and water for the duration of your trip, as well as a map and compass for navigation purposes.
Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park is one of the best road trip stops in Minnesota and offers a unique and memorable experience for nature enthusiasts. Located in the northern part of the state, this national park is known for its stunning landscapes and abundant recreational opportunities.
At Voyageurs National Park, visitors can explore a vast network of interconnected waterways that span over 340 square miles. The park is home to four major lakes, including Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake, Namakan Lake, and Sand Point Lake. These pristine bodies of water offer endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Voyageurs National Park is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts with a wide variety of fish species including walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass.
Apart from the water activities, the park also boasts several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. From short, scenic strolls to more challenging hikes, there is a trail for every level of fitness and interest. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as white-tailed deer, black bears, and bald eagles as you venture deeper into the park.
Camping is another popular activity at Voyageurs National Park, and there are numerous campsites scattered throughout the park. Whether you prefer a primitive camping experience or the comfort of an RV hookup, the park offers options for all types of camping enthusiasts. Falling asleep to the sounds of nature and waking up to picturesque views of the lakes is an experience you won’t want to miss.
In addition to the natural beauty, Voyageurs National Park also offers educational programs and interpretive exhibits. The Rainy Lake Visitor Center provides visitors with information about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife. Ranger-led programs are available for those who want to learn more about the park’s unique ecosystem and cultural heritage.
Visiting Voyageurs National Park is a must for any road trip in Minnesota. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the water, tranquility in nature, or a deeper understanding of the natural world, this national park has something for everyone. So make sure to add Voyageurs National Park to your itinerary and create lifelong memories on your Minnesota road trip.
Duluth
Duluth, Minnesota is a must-stop destination on any road trip through the state. With its stunning natural beauty and abundance of activities, Duluth offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or food lover, you won’t be disappointed with a stop in this charming city.
One of the top attractions in Duluth is the famous Aerial Lift Bridge. This iconic landmark spans the entrance to the Duluth-Superior Harbor and offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior. Visitors can watch as giant ships pass through the canal, or even take a scenic boat tour themselves. The bridge is especially impressive at night when it is lit up with colorful lights.
Another must-see in Duluth is the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center. This educational museum provides insight into the history and workings of the Great Lakes shipping industry. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, learn about shipwrecks that occurred in the area, and even try their hand at piloting a virtual ship.
For those looking to get outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty of Duluth, a visit to Park Point is a must. This long, sandy beach stretches along Lake Superior and offers stunning views of the water and surrounding landscape. Visitors can go for a swim, take a leisurely stroll along the shore, or simply relax and soak up the sun.
Food lovers won’t be disappointed in Duluth either. The city is known for its vibrant culinary scene, with a wide variety of restaurants and cafes offering delicious cuisine. From fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients to international flavors and comfort food, there is something to satisfy every palate.
No road trip through Minnesota would be complete without a stop in Duluth. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and abundance of activities, this city has something to offer every traveler. So, make sure to add Duluth to your itinerary and experience all that this charming city has to offer.