A Minnesota Hidden Gem, Glendalough State Park's Lakes, Prairies, And Beach Will Completely Enchant You
By Betsy Rathburn|Published August 25, 2021
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Betsy Rathburn
Author
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.
Being that Minnesota has more than 60 state parks, there’s bound to be a hidden gem or two. In the past, we’ve introduced overlooked parks such as Bear Head Lake State Park near Ely or Buffalo River State Park in the northwest. But there are still many other lesser-known state parks that are well worth visiting. It may not be as popular as Gooseberry Falls or Fort Snelling, but Glendalough State Park’s lakes, prairies, and beach will impress you all the same. Read on below to learn more about this beautiful park:
Glendalough State Park is a beautiful park in west-central Minnesota. It's about 115 miles northwest of St. Cloud, covering around 1,900 acres of beautiful prairie landscape.
There's plenty to do at the park and you'll have no problem filling your time if you stay for a weekend. Guests can set up tents or stay in one of the comfortable camper cabins! Either way, you'll have a fire ring, a picnic table, and beautiful views.
After you get set up, it's time to explore! There's plenty to do at Glendalough State Park. There are about 700 acres of prairie in the park. When you visit in the warmer months, you may spot native wildflowers. It's a quietly beautiful place, full of big skies and open spaces, and you'll feel perfectly at peace.
The park's wooded lands also hold plenty of interesting sights. If you're lucky, you may spot wildlife roaming through the park's hardwood forests. Birds and deer are commonly spotted here!
There's no better way to explore the prairies and woods than by hiking. Glendalough has 9 miles of hiking trails. If you like to travel on wheels, you'll also find 5 miles of paved trails. Either way, you'll find many gorgeous sights!
Other than the prairie and the forest, Glendalough is also home to some truly spectacular lakes! Annie Battle Lake is a no-motors-allowed fishery lake. It's the center point of the park, and it's a must-see while you're there.
Other lakes are great for fishing and boating. Docks make it easy to cast a line or launch a kayak. Molly Stark Lake has a fishing pier and a swimming beach.
All in all, Glendalough State Park is a Minnesota hidden gem. Not only does it have prairie and forest, but it is also home to some gorgeous lakes. What better way to enjoy Minnesota's natural beauty than by visiting a state park lake?
Have you been to Glendalough State Park? Let us know what you thought in the comments! And if you think there’s another underappreciated state park we should feature, be sure to let us know using our nomination form.
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