13 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In Minnesota Should Take
There are so many beautiful places to explore in Minnesota, and while we enjoy plenty of types of recreation, hiking is always the easiest, cheapest option. The best part about MN parks is that they provide plenty of short options for inexperienced hikers, or those who simply prefer to take it easy. These 13 routes are just a small sampling of the short hikes you can find around the state. They all have wonderful views and are under 5 miles. They’re a perfect way to spend an hour or two after work or school in the spring, summer, and fall.
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This scenic hike at Banning State Park gives you awesome views of the Kettle River. It's pretty short, but you can take your time and enjoy the river.
Off the Superior Hiking Trail, this loop has unforgettable views of Lake Superior, Oberg Lake and Moose Mountain. It's only 2 and a quarter miles, and even with the elevation gain it's doable for most families.
Cascade River State Park is packed with amazing falls and this easy half-mile loop is great for the whole family! You can also get up to Lookout Maintain and back in under 3.5 miles, or hike 1 and a half miles along the shore of Superior in this park.
This quick hike in Pipestone National Monument passes quarries, amazing quartzite rock formations and Winnewissa Falls. It's paved and less than a mile, so it's doable for any group.
The best trail on Barn Bluff this offers ridge views for the entire hike. All the loops on Barn Bluff are under 3 miles, but be prepared to gain some elevation!
The 2.25 mile round-trip trail to the Devil’s Kettle at Judge C R Magney State Park isn't too long, and you get to marvel at this natural phenomenon. But be prepared, like many North Shore scenic views, you'll have to climb some stairs for this one!
This amazing trail at Gooseberry Falls State Park is a lesser walked path with stunning views and even more of the falls we love. It's not too long, and will take you above and then around the other side of the main falls.
The prairie loop at Afton State Park is short and sweet and filled with green views. It's perfect for a quick walk or jog and many locals use it daily.
This hike along the St. Louis River at Jay Cooke State Park is unlike any other.
The views are unbeatable and you can cut it as short as you need, as long as you make it over the swinging bridge, which is only a few yards from the parking lot! You can also take the West Ridge Trail or East Ridge Trail for short loops above the river.
For unbeatable views, take this short trail through Blue Mounds State Park. You can start by the Visitor Center, and extend the hike to 4 or 5 miles if you'd like by making a loop with the Mound Trail or Lower Cliffline Trail.
It's less than a mile to the Aiton Fire Tower, and once you get up all those stairs you'll find awesome 360 views of the rest of Itasca State Park and the surrounding area.
A quick walk around the lighthouse and visitor center is much shorter than a mile, but we definitely recommend adding on a few miles by looping the Little Two Harbors and Day Hill Trails for even more views.
Even the long trail at Jeffers Petroglyphs is less than a mile, and a way to experience fascinating history and gorgeous prairies in a short amount of time.
What are your favorite places to go hiking in Minnesota? What is your favorite short route?
