While each of Minnesota's 62 state parks is incredible, there is much more to see in our beautiful state. In every region of Minnesota, there are lesser known parks that wait to be discovered. Each boasts its own unique beauty, with paths, lakes, and wildlife galore. Here are 10 of Minnesota's secret parks. Some may be a bit off the beaten path, but they're all totally worth it. Which ones have you been to?
Sprawling across 320 acres in White Bear Township, this beautiful nature center is perfect for a day outdoors. In addition to trails that lead through a serene forest, there is also a play area where kids can learn about water and gardens, play in mud, and climb a cliff! Address: 5287 Otter Lake Road, White Bear Township.
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2. Battle Creek Regional Park - Maplewood and St. Paul
This park actually has two sections: one is in St. Paul, and the other is in Maplewood. Together, these sections are home to a surprising number of amenities. There are picnic areas for those looking to enjoy dining al fresco, a sledding hill for winter months, and even a small outdoor waterpark. No matter the season, there is something to do at this beautiful park. As an added bonus, there's a dog park if you want to treat the special pup in your life. Address: Click here to find directions.
This secret park is the largest municipal park in Minnesota. Often called "Little Yellowstone," its 219 acres are full of beauty - just like the famous national park. Alexander Ramsey many historic shelters and bridges, four miles of hiking trails, and a zoo. But perhaps its most impressive draw? The picturesque waterfall that flows over cliffs in the park. Address: 99 East Oak Street, Redwood Falls.
Most visitors to Duluth visit Canal Park or the Congdon Estate. A few may venture up to Hawk Ridge.
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But Hartley Nature Center is just as worth visiting as Duluth's more famous parks. Hartley Nature Center is located in the 660-acre Hartley Park. It features many hiking trails, educational programs, and up-close views of wildlife.
Though it's popular among locals, this park isn't too well known in other parts of Minnesota. The 683-acre park has just about every kind of nature you can imagine: thick forests, jagged cliffs, and crystal-clear water. Popular activities include hiking, swimming, climbing, and even scuba diving. In the fall, the changing leaves make this park especially beautiful. Address: 1802 County Road 137, Waite Park.
Great River Bluffs State Park is probably the most popular place to see Winona from above. But if you don't want to spend an entire day exploring a state park, Garvin Heights offers beautiful views as well. A 1.5-mile trail takes to the top of a Mississippi River bluff, where you will see incredible views for miles. Address: Garvin Heights Road, Winona.
7. Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary - Minneapolis
There are so many parks in the Twin Cities that it is easy to overlook one or two. Located within the sprawling Theodore Wirth Regional Park, the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary is a spot that you don't want to overlook. It is a serene nature area that is filled to the brim with colorful flowers. Those beautiful flowers draw many different types of critters, from butterflies to hummingbirds. Depending on the time of year, you have a chance to glimpse them all on a walk through the gardens. Address: 1 Theodore Wirth Parkway, Minneapolis.
Minnehaha Falls rightfully gets a lot of attention, but there are other waterfalls in the Twin Cities. One is found at St. Paul's Hidden Falls Park. It may take you a few minutes to find it, but the walk along the park's 6 miles of trails will be well worth it for the quiet beauty found around each bend. Other than the gently trickling waterfall, other attractions include picnic areas, fire rings, and Mississippi River access. Address: Mississippi River Boulevard, St. Paul.
About five miles west of Rochester, Oxbow Park is an interesting spot that not may people know about. The park is great for fishing, hiking, and camping along the Zumbro River. Across its 620 acres, there are many picnic spots, scenic views, and even a large natural playground. Also attached to the park is the Zollman Zoo, where visitors can catch glimpses of eagles, owls, and other animals. Address: 5731 County Road 105 Northwest, Byron.
The Carpenter Nature Center is a sprawling region of the St. Croix River Valley. It is actually located across both Minnesota and Wisconsin, with many miles of trails on both sides. There are many opportunities to see animals like toads, falcons, and snakes that live in the park. There is even an apple orchard! It grows 13 varieties of apples which you can buy in the park. No matter the season, there is something to do at this stunning secret park. Address: 12805 St. Croix Trail South, Hastings.
Do you have any other favorite secret parks in Minnesota? Let us know in the comments!
Following the sun's arc across the Land of 10,000 Lakes, most folks will notice pretty quickly that the soaring river bluffs and deep, wooded valleys in the east gradually give way to gently rolling prairies and shimmering glacial lakes in the west. This means that any place with a little elevation above the landscape in this part of Minnesota will have quite a bit of prominence. One such spot is Inspiration Peak, which you can access from its namesake wayside. It's not nearly as well known as other viewpoints in the state, and in my opinion, that's what makes it such a hidden gem natural wonder in Minnesota.
You'll find Inspiration Peak just west of Urbank, in Otter Tail County. It's part of a unique area called the Leaf Hills that was formed by a glacial moraine. Though it hasn't been accorded full park status, it is a designated state wayside - so that's something, anyway. Nobel Prize-winning author and Minnesota native Sinclair Lewis famously waxed lyrical about the hill, which was called Leaf Mountain by early pioneers. After folks got word of Lewis' love for the spot, it was renamed Inspiration Peak and more folks started visiting.
The peak rises about 200 feet above the surrounding terrain affording views of dozens of lakes over miles of plains and forest. The hike to the top is a moderate, half-mile loop. You'll feel it a bit on the way up, but the view is definitely worth the effort.
Inspiration Peak is a natural wonder that just doesn't get the same love as so many of the other incredible natural places in Minnesota, which is why I think it's a hidden gem that's worthy of being singled out. What's more, with its location in Otter Tail County, it's a natural wonder within a natural wonder - Otter Tail County is home to more lakes than any other county in the entire country - 1,048 - and that's pretty wondrous! Inspiration Peak is the best place to go to see a few of those lakes from a single viewpoint.
So, you may go to visit Inspiration Peak State Wayside, but you'll want to take some time to explore the whole county, which is home to two state parks - Maplewood and Glendalough - and adjacent to two more: Buffalo River and Lake Carlos. The charming community of Battle Lake and this enchanting lakefront cabin would make a perfect base camp for your adventures.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
