We've covered it all from waterfalls to mountains on the Only In Minnesota Page, and there are a few natural wonders in MN that consistently come in above the rest for their phenomenal views and their crowd-drawing capabilities. One look at any of these amazing places can change perceptions about the entire Northern state for visitors, and they never fail to bring nostalgic smiles to long-time residents. Whether you've never been to one, or you've seen them all a dozen times, you'll still find yourself longing for that next trip by the end of this list.
1. Gooseberry Falls
Spectacular beauty and never-ending water are to be found at the popular Gooseberry Falls State Park in Two Harbors. This "Gateway to the North Shore" is one of the most coveted parks in the entire state.
2. Niagara Cave
Near Harmony, discover the depths of Niagara cave, one the midwest's largest caves, with fossils, a waterfall, and even a wedding chapel. The beautiful water sculpted passageways make for a truly one-of-a-kind walk.
3. Artist's Point
In Grand Marais on MN's North Shore, Artist's Point is a beautiful place to take in stunning Superior vistas and admire the geological features of the shore. Popular with painters and tourists alike, people just keep coming back.
4. Devil's Kettle
Minnesota's most mysterious natural wonder, Devil's Kettle is where half of the Brule River disappears, and never shows up again where we can see it. It astonishes visitors time and time again, and is one of MN's most beautiful falls to boot.
5. St. Croix River Dalles
The St. Croix River is where you'll find some of the most spectacular geological features in MN, from glacial potholes to the scenic cliffs where we can count the lava flows and prove that MN indeed was once an ocean state.
6. BWCA
The most expansive canoeing area full of phenomenal lakes and streams, the BWCA is one of the most calming places in the country, and a famous US destination for true adventurers.
7. Pigeon River High Falls
The highest falls in MN, and viewable from both the US and Canada, the High Falls on the border are so stunning that the image will likely stay with you for years to come.
8. Blue Mounds State Park
100 feet above the plains, the Sioux quartzite cliff here is amazing. It is the best place to capture what's remaining of real MN prairie, complete with a bison herd.
9. Palisade Head
Towering 300 feet over the waters of Superior, this destination on the North Shore about an hour from Duluth is an amazing rock formation over 1 billion years old.
10. Eagle Mountain
The highest point in Minnesota at 2,301 feet, it offers one of the most stunning views in the state, and does wonders to knock down the idea that MN is completely flat.
With so many amazing places to choose from, Minnesota itself is really a natural wonder. The wide variety of scenery and the unique Northern experience make MN truly one-of-a-kind. You'll never be tired of Minnesota's beauty, even the 10th or 20th time around. Which one of these MN places have you visited the most times? Share your favorite photo of that place with us on the Only In Minnesota Facebook Page!
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