Explore Minnesota This Summer
ready to hit the road this summer? you betcha.
You might be familiar with Minnesota’s Twin Cities (Minneapolis & St. Paul) but have you had the chance to explore the rest of our great state? There are so many underrated spots located right outside of the cities that are DREAMY and leave you feeling like you have been transported to a completely different place altogether.
So pack up your essentials, hop in the car, and head out to explore 5 of the dreamiest (and most underrated) spots in Minnesota this summer!
NERSTRAND STATE PARK | 50 MINUTES FROM THE CITY
Part of the original "Big Woods," this park in Nerstrand, Minnesota is known for its wildflowers, large hardwood trees, and vibrant color! Take the boardwalk trail or hike to Hidden Falls to cool off in the summer heat. The best way to see the beauty of this park is on foot, on 11 miles of stunning hiking trails!
Nerstrand State Park in Nerstrand, Minnesota
BANNING STATE PARK | 1.25 HOURS FROM THE CITY
This state park located in Sandstone, Minnesota is a whitewater canoeist or kayaker's dream! The Kettle River borders the entire length of this park and it provides some stunning views. The hikers and campers who visit have plenty to explore from breathtaking scenery to historic buildings!
Banning State Park in Sandstone, Minnesota
GRAND VIEW LODGE | 2.5 HOURS FROM THE CITY
This historic resort, located in Nisswa, Minnesota, has been the standard for summer vacation spots in Northern Minnesota! Roast marshmallows by the fire, book a tee time, enjoy their outdoor pool and hot tub, relax at the spa, or take a cruise on a pontoon!
Grand View Lodge in Nisswa, Minnesota
TETTEGOUCHE STATE PARK | 3.5 HOURS FROM THE CITY
This state park in Silver Bay, Minnesota offers stunning views of sea caves, a sea stack, and Palisade Head. Hike out to the rocky, wind-swept Shovel Point or back into one of the four, quiet inland lakes. And, of course, don't miss the beautiful High Falls on the Baptism River, the highest waterfall fully inside Minnesota's borders!
Tettegouche State Park in Silver Bay, Minnesota
VOYAGEURS NATIONAL PARK | 4.25 HOURS FROM THE CITY
With 218,055 acres, Voyageurs National Park in International Falls, Minnesota is an adventure wonderland all year long full of exposed rock ridges, cliffs, wetlands, forests, streams, and lakes. Voyageurs’ dark skies are ideal for viewing endless stars, shooting stars, and of course, the shimmering and colorful aurora borealis (Northern Lights) which it is so well-known for!
Voyageurs National Park in International Falls, Minnesota
Happy Exploring!
Jen
HONORABLE MENTIONS
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