Here in Minnesota, we have a lot of great places to escape to when we want to get away. When everyday life gets to be too much, you can always sneak away to a cabin in the woods or a lakeside resort. But where do you go when that's just not quite far enough away? If you're looking for the most remote, isolated spot in Minnesota, you head up to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.
With over 1,000 lakes and streams, you're not likely to encounter another person in the Boundary Waters - especially if you don't want to.
You'll be able to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of one of the country's most pristine wilderness areas. There are over 1,200 miles of canoe trails to explore.
You're not likely to run into any humans, but you might spot some wildlife if you're lucky. Keep your distance and enjoy the view. You don't get to experience nature this close every day.
In an article in the DNR's MCV Magazine, writer Tom Anderson determined that the most remote point in the state is the southern shore of Knife Lake, 12 miles from any roads.
In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, we have no shortage of iconic trails, from the Superior Hiking Trail in the northeast to the Upper Cliffline Trail in the southwest, the North Country National Scenic Trail, which crosses the entire state - and everything in between. But there's one short, sweet trail that's not only iconic, it's accessible, which means just about everyone can hike it. And if you get the opportunity to do so, do it - because I think the High Falls Trail at Grand Portage State Park is one of the most iconic trails in Minnesota.
As I mentioned, you'll find High Falls Trail at Grand Portage State Park. The park is a joint effort between the DNR, MNDOT (it's an official state rest area), and the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. It's wedged between the Canadian Border, Grand Portage National Monument, and tribal lands. As you've probably surmised, there's a lot going on at this day use state park.
But the big draw is the High Falls of the Pigeon River. The 120-foot cascade, which straddles the Minnesota-Ontario border, is the tallest waterfall in the state. And visitors from Minnesota, Canada, and across the U.S. stop here to make the easy, 1.1-mile, out-and-back hike from the visitor center to the waterfall.
The trail is a combination of paved pathways and boardwalks that lead to three viewing platforms at the High Falls, one of which is wheelchair accessible. And believe me when I say the view is incredible.
For most folks, the best time to visit the falls is in late spring, when rain and snowmelt swell the Pigeon River, and you can feel the tumbling water thundering in your chest and mist glistening on your face. But don't get me wrong - summer is wonderful, too. The waterfall may not always be at full volume, but the Northwoods forest is alive with squirrels, black bears, foxes, and all manner of migratory birds that summer here, including several species of colorful warblers.
In autumn, the falls are often at a trickle of their normal flow, but the trees are bursting with color. And here's where I let you in on a little secret: My personal favorite time to hike the iconic High Falls Trail is winter, when the cascade's icy majesty makes the payoff most dramatic.
I've hiked to the falls in sub-zero weather, and there are few better ways to combine drama and serenity: little noise but the crunching of my boots on the snow, the creaking of the planks on the boardwalks, and water rushing behind the ice; air crisp on my face; and the vista stark and other-worldly.
I just don't think there's another trail in the Bold North that offers the same combination of drama, nature, and accessibility - which is why High Falls is one of the most iconic trails in Minnesota. Avid hikers who prefer more of a challenge need not fret, though! Fire up AllTrails Plus, and download the map (limited cell service up here) for the Middle Falls Trail. It's a rugged, moderately-challenging (more than 700 feet of elevation gain), five-mile hike that continues on from the High Falls. It's a long, out-and-back with a short loop at the end, and the payoff is another gorgeous, but smaller, waterfall.
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Have you hiked the iconic High Falls Trail at Grand Portage State Park? Let us know in the comments, and be sure to toss out some other iconic hiking trails in Minnesota.
In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, we are lucky to have many, many, charming small towns. And these towns often have at least one park. And because we Minnesotans love our green spaces, many communities can boast two or more. Parks range from grassy squares with a tree or two, a picnic table, and perhaps some playground equipment to recreation-oriented parks full of fields and facilities to elaborate, forested preserves with rushing creeks and hiking trails - and everything in between.
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Some small towns, like Isle and Luverne, even have state parks right at their doorsteps. Others are home to wonderful city or county parks. Detroit Lakes falls into the latter category, boasting a huge, lakefront city park with a beach and plenty of amenities, as well as the incredible Dunton Locks County Park, which is one of my favorite small-town parks in Minnesota.
With several miles of trails, ranging from easy to moderately challenging, the park is ideal for hiking, cycling, and snowshoeing (in winter, of course). There's even a section of the Pine to Prairie International Birding Trail in the park. It's also rumored to be home to one of Thomas Dambo's famous trolls.
In warmer months, fishing, paddling, and camping are popular activities at Dunton Lakes. There are also picnic shelters and other amenities for the family to enjoy. The park is open year-round, and it's lovely landscape is stunning in all seasons - yes, even during winter. I promise.
Next time you're in the Detroit Lakes area - whether chasing trolls or just visiting Lake Country - be sure to save some time to explore Dunton Locks County Park... you'll be glad you did. Check out AllTrails Plus for some additional hiking suggestions at the park. And if you'll need a place to stay, you won't find a better location than Best Western Premiere: The Lodge on Lake Detroit. As its name implies, it's right on the lake, and it's one of our favorite resorts in the area.
Have you visited Dunton Locks County park in Detroit Lakes? Let us know in the comments, and be sure to tell us about your favorite small-town parks in Minnesota.
