Maplewood State Park Is One Of Minnesota S Best Spots To See Fall Color

Every year, Minnesotans flock to the North Shore to take in the breathtaking fall colors. No doubt, this is one of the most beautiful regions in the state – especially when the leaves start to change. But we’re here to warn you not to sleep on other regions of Minnesota. In fact, western Minnesota holds one of the prettiest parks in the state – especially come autumn. Maplewood State Park is not as well-known as Tettegouche or Gooseberry Falls or Jay Cooke. But if you climb atop one of its tall hills, you’ll have a spectacular view for miles around. Check it out:

Maplewood State Park is a more than 9,000-acre park near Pelican Rapids, Minnesota. It’s in west-central Minnesota, about 200 miles northwest of Minneapolis, or 60 miles southeast of Fargo, North Dakota.

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The park is known for its vast maple forest. In the fall, the trees turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. It’s one of the prettiest places in the state.

Kamal Neupane/Google

The forests cover rolling hills. The tallest stands 1,600 feet above the surrounding landscape! Nestled between the hills are several large lakes and many small ponds. With the fall colors reflected in their waters, these serene bodies of water become even more beautiful.

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One of the most popular ways to explore the park’s forests and lakes is by hiking. There are 25 miles of hiking trails in Maplewood State Park. Some of the most popular trails lead to high hilltops that offer spectacular views.

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For example, the Hallaway Hill Trail is a half-mile trek that leads to incredible views of tree-lined South Lida Lake. It’s beautiful year-round, but it becomes especially scenic when the leaves start to change.

Lane Zachow/Google

Other trails offer even more hilltop views. The blanket of colorful leaves before you will leave you in awe.

Trent Wiskow/Google

Next time you’re looking for a fall excursion that isn’t quite as busy as the North Shore, head over to Maplewood State Park. With its tree-covered hills and scenic lakes, it’s one of the prettiest places to visit in Minnesota in the fall!

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Have you been to Maplewood State Park? Let us know what you thought in the comments! And if you’re interested in other great places to check out in fall in Minnesota, check out our past list of beautiful Minnesota state parks to visit in the fall.