This Easy, One-Mile Trail Leads To Hidden Falls, One Of Minnesota’s Most Underrated Waterfalls
Minnesota is officially the Land of 10,000 Lakes, and it’s a well-deserved nickname. Each of the more than 11,000 lakes dotted across our state is full of beauty and recreation. Just about everyone has a favorite, and it’s fun to visit new ones. But Minnesota is home to another natural wonder that deserves some recognition: the waterfall. There’s one in every region of the state, each just as beautiful as our famous lakes. The tallest waterfalls are well-known, but there are many others that are well worth visiting. For example, Nerstrand Big Woods State Park is home to one of Minnesota’s most underrated waterfalls. Hidden Falls is easily accessed via the easy Hidden Falls trail. Here’s what you need to know about the trail:
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Nerstrand Big Woods State Park is a 2,800-acre state park in southeastern Minnesota. It's about 50 miles south of the Twin Cities, making it an excellent day trip destination for those in the metro area.
The park's most popular attraction is without a doubt Hidden Falls. To access the waterfall, visitors hike a mile-long path through the old, thick forest that gives the park its name.
As you walk the loop trail, you'll catch glimpses of native wildflowers, beautiful moss-covered rocks, animals, and more. The quiet and beauty of this forest make it an excellent place for hiking.
As you hike, you'll soon hear - and then see - the lovely rushing waters of Hidden Falls. Surrounded by forest, this waterfall feels like a secret that only visitors know about.
Continue walking for an up-close view of this gorgeous waterfall. It's just 20 feet tall, but it is doubly impressive thanks to its beautiful surroundings.
The waterfall is wider than it is tall, so you can get up close to its rushing waters as they tumble over the rock. It's so picturesque that you won't be able to resist taking photos.
What makes the waterfall even better is the fact that it is breathtakingly gorgeous no matter what time of the year. In the fall, it is surrounded by vibrant changing leaves...
...and in the winter, the frozen waters of Hidden Falls are almost otherworldly. This little-known waterfall is a must-see for Minnesota nature lovers!
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
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