9 Incredible Natural Wonders In Minnesota That You Can Witness For Free

Here in Minnesota, you don’t have to pay big money to see natural beauty. There are gorgeous places all around us, many of which cost nothing to visit. Next time you’re looking for an affordable outdoor adventure, check out one of these incredible natural wonders. They’re totally free to visit, and they’re well worth checking out for those who love Mother Nature. Take a look:

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It’s not every day that you encounter an urban waterfall. But Minnehaha Falls is a beautiful example of one! The rushing waters of Minnehaha Creek tumble 53 feet over a rocky gorge. Trails lead down to the base of the waterfall for amazing up-close views, or you can view it from the top. Either way, this is a beautiful spot that is well worth visiting - especially because it’s completely free to see!

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On its own, Lake Superior is already a natural wonder. But its many beaches kick the lake’s immense beauty up a notch. One favorite beach on Minnesota’s North Shore is Black Beach. Though the beach’s black color is human-made - it’s the result of taconite mining - the surrounding rocks, cliffs, and lake are all-natural. Next time you’re looking for a unique stop as you travel the North Shore, this place is a great option.

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Minnesota is home to a few remaining prairie landscapes, and Touch the Sky Prairie is one of the most gorgeous. Tucked away in the southwestern corner of Minnesota, it’s a tall grass prairie full of such quiet beauty that you’ll instantly be inspired when you step up. And if you hike among the grasses, you might even come across a small but beautiful prairie waterfall. Free to visit and full of sweeping grasses and big skies, this Minnesota prairie is a must-see.

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Here’s another Lake Superior beach that all Minnesotans should visit at least once. Like Black Beach, it’s known for its distinct color. But where Black Beach is black, Iona’s Beach is a soft pink color. The pink stones have been washed by the waves for thousands of years, resulting in a uniform roundness that adds to their beauty. But the most interesting part of Iona’s Beach is the sound! When the waves lap the shore, the rocks chime together in a tinkling sound that gave Iona’s Beach its Singing Beach nickname.

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Grand Marais is a go-to spot for Minnesotans looking for a charming town surrounded by the North Shore’s immense beauty. There are plenty of places in and around the town to see, but Artist’s Point is probably the most popular. This little stretch of rocky, wooded land is surrounded by the choppy waters of Lake Superior. It’s a great - and free! - place to set up an easel to paint, take photos, or simply enjoy nature’s beauty.

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Here’s one of Minnesota’s strangest natural wonders. Deep in the Superior National Forest, a 60-foot-tall rock draws visitors down an easy 3-mile path. The monolith is known for its strong magnetism, which causes compass needles to spin. It’s an interesting wonder in the middle of the forest, and it’s worth a visit if you’re interested in unique attractions.

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In Redwood Falls, Minnesota, Ramsey Park is a municipal park that, thanks to its 256-acre size, has earned the nickname of the Little Yellowstone of Minnesota. It’s Minnesota’s biggest municipal park, it’s full of natural beauty! The biggest attraction is Ramsey Falls, a beautiful waterfall that tumbles over a rocky cliff. There are plenty of ways to witness this picturesque waterfall within the park, all completely free.

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Rising 2,301 feet above sea level, Eagle Mountain is Minnesota’s highest point! It rises 1,322 feet above the surrounding landscape, offering spectacular views of tree-covered hills for those who hike to the top. While the hike isn’t short - around 7 miles round-trip - it is mostly flat, with a few steep areas near the top. But if you take the time to do this hike, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view from the top of Minnesota. Day trips require a permit, which you can get for free in the trail parking area. Overnight trips may require additional fees.

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Hawk Ridge is a Duluth spot that is popular with bird-watchers. But the ridge offers plenty of other amazing sights as well. When you arrive, you’ll instantly be enamored with the spectacular view of Lake Superior. Far below, you’ll be able to see the lake’s sparkling waters stretched to the horizon. Short paths along the hill let you take in the view, which also includes the sight of Duluth far below. This beautiful natural wonder is well worth a visit next time you’re in Duluth!

Have you ever been to any of these places? Which was your favorite? Let us know in the comments! And if you’re looking for more affordable places to visit, check out our list off amazing little-known state parks in Minnesota.