Summertime in Minnesota is absolutely gorgeous: sparkling lakes, blue skies, warm weather, and plenty of sunshine. It’s a time of busyness, with many activities and attractions that draw attention outdoors. But this doesn’t mean that Minnesota’s other seasons aren’t also wonderful. Many places in the Land of 10,000 Lakes hold an entirely different beauty under the cover of ice and snow. For example, Minnesota’s waterfalls are especially beautiful when their rushing waters still during the winter months. One of the best places to see a frozen waterfall is at Banning State Park. Here, a lesser-known waterfall awaits those willing to brave the cold to see it. Here’s what you need to know:

Banning State Park is a beautiful 6,200-acre park in east-central Minnesota, in the small town of Sandstone. It's an easy day trip from the Twin Cities or Duluth.
Dan Bibe/AllTrails
This park has plenty to offer year-round. In the winter, it is usually covered with a blanket of snow. The quiet stillness of the park under these conditions will be music to your ears.
Tony Webster/Flickr
The many acres of forest in the park are home to all kinds of trees. This means that there's a nice variety of wildlife, including 184 bird species, 34 types of mammals, and even 17 different reptile and amphibian species.
Tricia G/AllTrails

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You can explore the wildlife for yourself when you hike on Banning's 18 miles of trails. There are some truly unique trails here, including one that takes you to the abandoned remains of a historic quarry. You can read more about that trail here.
Shawn Waller/Google
Though the forests, animals, and historic ruins are fascinating, Banning State Park is most known for its choppy waters. The Kettle River's Class IV rapids are popular among kayakers. And Wolf Creek is known for its gorgeous waterfall.
Stacey F/AllTrails
Follow the Wolf Creek Falls Trail to see the waterfall for yourself. You'll pass through 1.5 miles of quiet, snowy woods...
Stacey F/AllTrails
...that eventually open up to a gorgeous waterfall. Wolf Creek Falls is a small but picturesque waterfall that becomes even more breathtaking covered in ice and snow. It is a must-see spot during a winter in Minnesota!
Stacey F/AllTrails

Have you ever hiked to Wolf Creek Falls in the winter? What did you think? For other frozen waterfalls to visit this winter, check out our past list of the most beautiful frozen waterfalls in Minnesota.

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Banning State Park, 61101 Banning Park Rd, Sandstone, MN 55072, USA