Did you know that Minnesota has 67 state parks? That doesn't even count our national parks, recreation areas, state trails, or national and state forests. Needless to say, Minnesotans have a whole lot of outdoors to discover. And the best way to experience the outdoors? By taking a hike. At less than 5 miles each, these 10 easy Minnesota hiking trails are a perfect way to see the state without going too far off the beaten path. This list offers some of the best hikes in Minnesota.

1. Barrier Falls Overlook Trail - 2 miles

Kicking off our list of the best hikes in Minnesota is the Barrier Falls Overlook Trail. This trail follows the path of the Devil Track River. A hike along the trail will let you catch a glimpse of the biggest gorge in Minnesota. You'll walk through thick stands of birch and pine and, after walking a mile, arrive at Barrier Falls Outlook. Here, you'll spot Barrier Falls and see the Devil Track River cut its way through the gorge. If you enjoy this hike, you might also enjoy this additional gorge trail, another easy hike in Minnesota.

2. Upper Cliffline Trail at Blue Mounds State Park - 4 miles

The Upper Cliffline Trail at Blue Mounds State Park offers gorgeous views of the pink quartzite cliffs that the park is known for. Visitors will also enjoy a panoramic view of the last of Minnesota's prairie. It should definitely be at the top of any hiking bucket list.

3. High Falls Trail at Grand Portage State Park - 1 mile

You won't regret this short hike along the Pigeon River, especially when you get to the end of the trail. You'll hear the thundering high falls of the Pigeon River long before you see it. At the end of the trail, you'll have the option of ascending 40 steps to see the falls from the upper viewing platform, or of staying put below. Either way, this easy hike is more than worth the trip to Grand Portage.

4. Tettegouche Lake Overlook Trail - 1.7 miles

5. Oberg Mountain Loop - 4.3 miles

When you get to the top of this trail, you'll be reminded of just how much forest Minnesota has. The loop winds up Oberg Mountain to offer a great view of Lake Superior, Leveaux Mountain, and Carlton Peak - not to mention Superior National Forest. The gradual ascent of this hike makes it ideal for those not interested in strenuous climbing. With plenty of scenic overlooks along the loop, you'll want to have your camera ready. While you’re in the area, don’t miss the beautiful Oberg Lake.

6. Dr. Roberts Trail in Itasca State Park - 2 miles

This trail in Itasca State Park is a great place to take an easy hike through nature. The trail passes by an interesting bog, and lady slippers often bloom along the trail's edge. A great view of Lake Itasca rounds out this 2-mile adventure. If you’re looking for a longer stay in the state park, here is a great hotel.

7. River Trail in Wild River State Park - 1.5 miles

8. Gooseberry River Loop in Gooseberry Falls State Park - 1.2 miles

9. Congdon Park Trail - 1.3 miles

This trail offers a feeling of isolation even in the middle of Duluth. You'll use a series of wooden bridges to travel this trail along Tischer Creek. This little trail even boasts great views of the creek's small waterfalls. It's a definite must-do for nature lovers who visit Duluth.

10. King's Bluff Trail in Great Bluffs State Park - 3.6 miles

To cap off our list of the best hikes in Minnesota is a place that doesn't even look like Minnesota! But it is. The King's Bluff Trail will take you high above the Mississippi River in Winona. The sweeping view also encompasses the delta of Wisconsin's Black River, endless trees and river channels, and an impressive view of the nearby Queen's Bluff. All that in only 3.6 miles of easy hiking? Definitely the best hiking trail in Great River Bluffs State Park.

Have you hiked any of these trails? Are you itching for even more great Minnesota hiking trails? Check out our previous article of 16 more of the best hikes in Minnesota for more.