14 Hidden Gems You Have To See In Minnesota Before You Die
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Jo Magliocco
Author
Minnesota is full of stunning scenery, and the best places to enjoy it are the secluded, off the beaten path parks, peaceful places, hiking spots where you aren’t surrounded by other visitors. These 14 hidden gems in Minnesota are absolutely beautiful, and you won’t find yourself in a crowd when you’re exploring.
1. George Crosby Manitou State Park
George Crosby Manitou State Park, 7616 Co Hwy 7, Finland, MN 55603, USA
This secluded wilderness park offers hiking and camping without the crowds of other North Shore parks. There is no developed campground, and the majority of the park is only accessible on foot. Enjoy the backpacking trails and peaceful waterfalls all throughout the park.
2. Normandale Japanese Garden
Normandale Japanese Garden, West Lot, 9700 France Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55431, USA
For a truly magical experience, try this amazing Japanese garden which offers walking paths and places to sit and enjoy nature.
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3. Lost 40 SNA
Lost 40 Scientific and Natural Area (SNA), Twp, Northome, MN 56661, USA
One of Minnesota's most amazing stands of forest, the Lost 40 was saved from logging by a surveying error - and luckily, we can still enjoy its beauty today.
In fact, you can enjoy a virtual hike in the Lost 40 Scientific and Natural Area right now if you take a look at this YouTube video from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources:
In fact, you can enjoy a virtual hike in the Lost 40 Scientific and Natural Area right now if you take a look at this YouTube video from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources:
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4. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, 9700 170th St E, Nerstrand, MN 55053, USA
Hidden Falls at this park is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet afternoon.
5. Franz Jevne State Park
Franz Jevne State Park, MN-11, Birchdale, MN 56629, USA
Another of the lesser visited state parks in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, enjoy gorgeous sunsets and plenty of recreation at this state park on the Canadian border.
6. Pike Island - Fort Snelling State Park
Pike Island, St Paul, MN, USA
Pike Island is the perfect Metro area escape. It offers secluded beach spots to enjoy the river and an easy hiking trail along the island's perimeter.
7. Minnesota River Valley State Recreation Area
Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area, Park Boulevard, Jordan, MN, USA
Another place near the Metro area where you can find seclusion, this massive recreation area is truly one-of-a-kind. This Minnesota hidden gem stretches along the banks of Minnesota River and butts up against the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge.
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8. Superior Hiking Trail overlooks near Tettegouche State Park
Bear Lake, Minnesota 55614, USA
The Superior Hiking Trail traverses several state parks along the North Shore. Among these is Tettegouche State Park, where you'll find the iconic Bean and Bear Lakes near the park's southern border. The back trails at Tettegouche make for the perfect hiking without the crowds.
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9. Garden Island State Recreation Area
Garden Island State Recreation Area, 3684 54th Ave NW, Williams, MN 56686, USA
This island park is way up north in the middle of Lake of the Woods - offering a getaway like no other. The only way to reach this state recreation area is by boat - or snowmobile in the winter. However, the beaches are considerably less pleasant when covered in snow.
10. Munsinger/Clemens Gardens
Munsinger Gardens, Riverside Drive Southeast, St. Cloud, MN, USA
These St. Cloud gardens are a great place to kick back and enjoy nature along with stunning flowers.
11. Noerenberg Memorial Gardens
Noerenberg Memorial Gardens, 2865 N Shore Dr, Wayzata, MN 55391, USA
Another amazing garden, this memorial park on Lake Minnetonka is one of the most peaceful places in the state to relax and enjoy a lovely natural setting.
12. Finland State Forest
Finland State Forest, Crystal Bay Township, MN 55603, USA
This 30,000-acre forest has room for everyone and offers plenty of camping and hiking. The forest is located just off the North Shore of Lake Superior, and it's adjacent to both Tettegouche State Park and the Superior National Forest.
13. Rabideau CCC Camp
Rabideau CCC Camp N.H.S., Scenic Hwy NE, Blackduck, MN 56630, USA
This camp in the Chippewa National Forest is full of history and provides an amazing place for education and exploration. It's also just off the Lady's Slipper Scenic Byway, so if you visit in early summer, keep a look out for the iconic state flower.
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14. Mountain Iron Mine
Mountain Iron Mine, Mountain Iron, MN 55768, USA
This historic mine is where Minnesota's first deposit of high-grade iron ore was discovered in 1887. This historic site offers a touch of history with stunning North Woods scenery.
These are some of our favorite hidden gems in Minnesota. You could certainly visit a few them in a single road trip if you plan it right. Have you visited any of these places, or do you have some hidden gems in Minnesota you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments!
If you love spending time at secret spots in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, check out this amazing hidden beach for another epic getaway!
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More to Explore
Hidden Gems In MN
We are always on the lookout for the best hidden gems in MN. More of our favorites include:
Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Skibo Overlook along the Superior National Forest Scenic Byway