Most people know about beautiful Voyageur’s National Park up north, but few realize that there is another national park in Minnesota. And this one is a lot closer to the city. It’s one of the most unique parks in the country. In fact, it’s specified as a partnership park because much of the land is not owned by the park. And as a result, National Park Services must work with local partners to ensure that their mission is being served. So keep reading to learn more about Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, the little-known national park in Minnesota.
Mississippi National River and Recreation Area encompasses 72 miles of the scenic Mississippi River that flow through the Twin Cities Metro Area. So even though it is not well-known, it is one of the best parks in Minnesota.
Flickr/Aaron Fulkerson
Throughout the park the river changes from a prairie river to a large floodplain river. And as a result, you get some really great views and scenery.
Flickr/Jerry Huddleston
You can find dozens of beautiful parks along the way with an abundance of recreational opportunities. So if you are looking for things to do outside in Minnesota, be sure to check out this national park.
Flickr/USFWSMidwest
You can paddle, hike, bike, boat, and even snowshoe within the park. There are also 60 Nice Ride bike sharing stations in close proximity to the river. There are no shortage of hiking trails in Minnesota. But you may not have visited one here yet. So grab your boots and try one of the trails today.
Flickr/USFWSMidwest
This park is responsible for sharing and providing education about the iconic river.
Flickr/Michael Hicks
Even though it’s in the center of the largest metropolitan area of Minnesota, many long-time residents have never experienced the river up-close, nor do they realize there is a massive national park in their backyard. Who would have guessed there is a hidden national park in Minnesota?!
Flickr/USFWSMidwest
So now you know about the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, a great national park in Minnesota. And now you have no excuse not to visit. Take a look at the park’s website, and even the recent film series dedicated to the story of the national park. Then, go spend a lovely day on the river!
Flickr/Aaron Fulkerson
Flickr/Jerry Huddleston
Flickr/USFWSMidwest
Flickr/Michael Hicks
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Address: Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, 120 W Kellogg Blvd, St Paul, MN 55102, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
national park in Minnesota February 02, 2022 Jessica Bohl What are the best hiking trails in Minnesota? Minnesota overflows with amazing hiking trails. Whether you love cliff walks, waterfalls, or forested paths, there is a hiking trail for you. For waterfall lovers, Gooseberry and Minnehaha Falls are popular hiking destinations. But for lesser-known waterfalls, be sure to check out Hidden Falls Trail and Caribou Falls Trail. You can find more information about those hikes and some other hidden gems in this great article. For a scenic lake trail, be sure to visit Itasca State Park. It has a lovely 2 mile loop trail that is perfect for nice afternoon. Learn more about some scenic Minnesota hikes here. What are the best parks in Minnesota? Minnesota has over 75 parks and recreations areas, so it is hard to choose which ones are truly the best. Each one of them offers visitors a unique and beautiful experience. But some parks close to Minneapolis that really stand out, be sure to visit Fort Snelling State Park in St. Paul, which blends nature and history beautifully. Or, visit La Maria State Park in Silver Creek Township for some great “big woods” and lovely water scenery. Check out this article for some more great parks.
The OIYS Visitor Center
national park in Minnesota
February 02, 2022
Jessica Bohl
What are the best hiking trails in Minnesota? Minnesota overflows with amazing hiking trails. Whether you love cliff walks, waterfalls, or forested paths, there is a hiking trail for you. For waterfall lovers, Gooseberry and Minnehaha Falls are popular hiking destinations. But for lesser-known waterfalls, be sure to check out Hidden Falls Trail and Caribou Falls Trail. You can find more information about those hikes and some other hidden gems in this great article. For a scenic lake trail, be sure to visit Itasca State Park. It has a lovely 2 mile loop trail that is perfect for nice afternoon. Learn more about some scenic Minnesota hikes here. What are the best parks in Minnesota? Minnesota has over 75 parks and recreations areas, so it is hard to choose which ones are truly the best. Each one of them offers visitors a unique and beautiful experience. But some parks close to Minneapolis that really stand out, be sure to visit Fort Snelling State Park in St. Paul, which blends nature and history beautifully. Or, visit La Maria State Park in Silver Creek Township for some great “big woods” and lovely water scenery. Check out this article for some more great parks.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
Minnesota overflows with amazing hiking trails. Whether you love cliff walks, waterfalls, or forested paths, there is a hiking trail for you. For waterfall lovers, Gooseberry and Minnehaha Falls are popular hiking destinations. But for lesser-known waterfalls, be sure to check out Hidden Falls Trail and Caribou Falls Trail. You can find more information about those hikes and some other hidden gems in this great article. For a scenic lake trail, be sure to visit Itasca State Park. It has a lovely 2 mile loop trail that is perfect for nice afternoon. Learn more about some scenic Minnesota hikes here.
What are the best parks in Minnesota?
Minnesota has over 75 parks and recreations areas, so it is hard to choose which ones are truly the best. Each one of them offers visitors a unique and beautiful experience. But some parks close to Minneapolis that really stand out, be sure to visit Fort Snelling State Park in St. Paul, which blends nature and history beautifully. Or, visit La Maria State Park in Silver Creek Township for some great “big woods” and lovely water scenery. Check out this article for some more great parks.
