There are many incredible trails in every region of Minnesota. They lead you to waterfalls, through thick woods, and alongside rugged cliffs. But, more often than not, they’re full of people who can detract from the serenity of your hike and leave you feeling not quite satisfied. Luckily, there are a lot of little-known trails in Minnesota, too. These 11 scenic trails in Minnesota will lead you to some of the most beautiful spots in Minnesota. So lace up those hiking boots, and let’s get exploring!

1. Hidden Falls Trail
Hidden Falls Drive, Hidden Falls Dr, St Paul, MN 55116, USA
Tony Webster/Flickr
With all the attention Gooseberry and Minnehaha Falls get, it's no wonder some of Minnesota's smaller waterfalls have fallen by the wayside. The Hidden Falls at Nerstrand/Big Woods State Park are seriously underrated. Luckily, the trail to see it is short and easy. A 1/3-mile hike on a maintained trail will bring you to this beautiful, secluded waterfall. Learn more about hiking the gorgeous Hidden Falls Trail in Minnesota.
2. Caribou Falls Trail
Caribou Falls, Lake No. 1, MN 55614, USA
Phil/Flickr
If you don't typically stop at waysides, you could easily miss the Caribou Falls Trail. The 3/4-mile trail is located at the Caribou Falls State Wayside along Highway 61. The trail leads to a gorgeous view of the 35-feet-high Caribou Falls. If you're a waterfall chaser who doesn't mind a short walk, you'll love it.
3. Cannon Valley Trail
Cannon Valley Trail, Cannon Falls, MN, USA
Cannon Valley Trail/Facebook
The Cannon Valley Trail is a gorgeous multi-use trail through southeastern Minnesota. Its 19-mile length offers plenty of room to share the trail while still maintaining solitude. The trail offers amazing views of cliffs, wetlands, and forests. Learn more about planning your Cannon Valley Trail adventure.
4. North Country Trail
North Country Trail, N Country Trail, Duluth, MN 55808, USA
North Country Trail Association
The North Country Trail is huge. It spans over 4,000 miles across the United States, including many miles in northern Minnesota. But its length is what makes it such a great trail. Because there are few people who hike it, you're not likely to run into anyone no matter what part of the trail you start on. All you'll have to focus on is the natural beauty of northern Minnesota, including incredible views of Lake Superior. Learn more information about hiking the iconic North Country Trail in Minnesota.
5. Border Route Trail
Border Route Trail, Border Rte Trail, East Cook, MN 55606, USA
Tim Schleicher/Flickr
The 65-mile-long Border Route Trail is a winding path through the Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness Area. For experienced hikers, it's a great way to explore the Boundary Waters without having to paddle. The entire trail is beautiful, but one of the most popular views is the Rose Lake overlook. There are also many campsites along the trail for those who are up for a multi-day hike. When it comes to scenic hikes in Minnesota, the Border Route Trail definitely qualifies.

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6. Snowbank Trail
Snowbank Lake Road, Snowbank Lake Rd, Fall Lake Township, MN 55731, USA
Aaron Fulkerson/Flickr
The Snowbank Trail is another little-known route through the Boundary Waters. At about 21 miles long, it's a bit long for inexperienced hikers. But if you're up for it, the trail offers lovely overlooks of lakes and forests.
7. Hyland Lake Trail
Hyland Lake, Bloomington, MN 55438, USA
Jeremy Noble/Flickr
Located at the Hyland Lake Park Reserve, the 2-mile Hyland Lake Trail is a short loop through wetlands and marshes. For being such a short and easily accessible hike, it is breathtakingly beautiful.
8. Kekekabic Trail
Kekekabic Trail, West Cook, MN 55604, USA
kwpapke/Flickr
The Kekekabic Trail is another long hike - 42 miles - that would take an experienced hiker several days to complete. But taking a shorter jaunt along it would still take you on a beautiful tour within the thick forest it cuts through. Originally used as a firefighter's trail, it goes through old-growth pines and offers a view of Kekekabic Lake.
9. Mazomani Trail
Mazomani Trail, Louisville Township, MN 55352, USA
NatureNerd/Flickr
In Jordan, Minnesota, the Mazomani Trail is a 5-mile loop through the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. Hikers will get a firsthand view of huge, impressive rock formations, a lovely river, and plenty of lush fields. Learn more about hiking the beautiful Mazomani Trail.
10. Goldenrod Trail
Tamarack Nature Center, 5287 Otter Lake Rd, White Bear Township, MN 55110, USA
cudinski/Flickr
The Goldenrod Trail at Tamarack Nature Center is the perfect trail for a family hike. The nature center itself offers plenty of fun, and the 2.8-mile trail loops through lush grasslands. Find out more about planning your visit to the Tamarack Nature Center in Minnesota.
11. Angleworm Lake Trail
Superior National Forest, Stony River Township, MN 55731, USA
briandjan607/Flickr
This moderately difficult trail is about 12 miles long near Ely, Minnesota. It crosses through thick woods to the scenic Angleworm Lake. And because few use the trail, you're sure to find plenty of peace and quiet. Here's more on what makes the Angleworm Lake Trail so special.

What are some of your favorite scenic trails in Minnesota? Let us know in the comments — we’d love to hear from you! If you’re looking for even more great hikes, check out this list of 16 amazing hikes in Minnesota.

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More to Explore

Scenic Trails In Minnesota

Beth C. | May 12, 2021

What are some more of the best hikes in Minnesota?

As you've learned from the article above detailing the most scenic trails in Minnesota, the Land Of 10,000 Lakes has no shortage of breathtaking hikes. Of course, these are only some of the options that you'll discover in our great state. Another fantastic option is Eagle Mountain. In fact, it might just be the most stunning hike in Minnesota. This trek measures 7 miles in length, but it will take you to the highest point in the state. Standing at 2,301 feet above sea level, it's possible to see all the way to Lake Superior! Some more of the best hikes in Minnesota include Kettle River in Banning State Park, Barn Bluff Trail, Kawishiwi Falls, and the Superior Hiking Trail. Learn more about these must-take hiking trails in Minnesota.

What are the most scenic places in Minnesota?

Whether you're a resident of Minnesota or simply passing through on a vacation, you'll quickly discover the innate beauty of this state. And if you're someone who appreciates natural beauty, you'll find that Minnesota delivers. Some of the most scenic places in Minnesota include Minnehaha Falls, Glensheen Mansion, Gooseberry Falls, Devil's Kettle, Itasca State Park, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, Jeffers Petroglyphs, Canal Park, Voyageurs National Park, St. Croix River Dalles, Elois Butler Wildflower Garden, and the Oberg Mountain Loop. Learn more about these destinations when you check out our Ultimate Minnesota Bucket List.

 

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Featured Addresses
2493 Ely-Buyck Rd, Ely, MN 55731, USA
White Bear Lake, MN, USA
Shakopee, MN, USA
Hyland Lake Park Reserve - Recreation Area, 10145 E Bush Lake Rd, Bloomington, MN 55438, USA
Kekekabic Trail West, Ely, MN 55731, USA
N 47° 28.080, W 91° 01.863
9700 170th St E, Nerstrand, MN 55053, USA
Cannon Valley Trail, Cannon Falls, MN, USA
Superior Hiking Trail, Minnesota, USA
Border Route Trail, Border Rte Trail, East Cook, MN 55606, USA
Kekekabic Trail, West Cook, MN 55604, USA