Where do you go when you want some peace and quiet? If you’re a Minnesota nature lover, you likely head outdoors. There are dozens of state parks, trails, and recreation areas for people in every region to enjoy. Some of the most well-known spots, like Gooseberry Falls or Fort Snelling, are wonderful ways to get outside. But there are many more parks that are off the beaten track. In southeastern Minnesota, the little-known Beaver Creek Valley State Park is one example. Here, you’ll find some of the best hiking trails near me, beautiful views, and a whole lot of nature. Read on to learn what you need to know about visiting this gorgeous state park, which offers some of the best hikes in Minnesota.

Exploring our state is always an adventure, but there’s so much to see beyond its borders! Sign up for our Bucket List Newsletter to see must-visit destinations throughout the nation and inspire your travels, both near and far.

Beaver Creek Valley State Park is a lesser-known state park in the southeastern Minnesota town of Caledonia. It's about 80 miles southeast of Rochester.
Dave Glas/Google
The park covers almost 1,200 acres in the Minnesota section of the Driftless Area. Here, rolling hills rise over the landscape for miles around.
Justin Zicarelli/Google
These hills provide some truly beautiful hiking. At Beaver Creek Valley, there are eight miles of hiking trails. They span from the park's lowest areas to the top of a tall bluff.
Adam Niosi/Google
You'll cross through beautiful mixed forests that are filled with wildlife including birds, deer, and rodents. The park is even home to the timber rattlesnake, though of course, you'll want to stay clear of it.
Chang Vue/Google
Beaver Creek Valley State Park gets its name from Beaver Creek. As you hike, you'll cross the gently trickling creek over picturesque bridges.
Stephen Blum/Google
The sides of the creek are often steep and rocky, a departure from most rivers in Minnesota. You'll feel like you're on vacation miles away.
Marilynn Miller/Google
The streams in the park are home to native, naturally-occurring trout. That makes Beaver Creek Valley a popular spot for fishing.
Cathy/Google
All in all, you'll love this little-known park if you enjoy peace and quiet, hiking, fishing, or all of the above.
Justin Zicarelli/Google

Have you ever been to Beaver Creek Valley State Park? What do you think are the best hikes in Minnesota? Please share your experience and thoughts with us in the comments.

If you enjoy exploring Minnesota state parks that are lesser-known, be sure to check out our list of 11 underrated state parks in Minnesota.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

More to Explore

best hikes in minnesota

Jennifer Young | May 02, 2022

What are three easy hikes in Minnesota that are great for the entire family?

Minnesota is filled with many trails of all lengths and difficulties. While some of the trails might be long and difficult, many others are short and easy. Listed below are three trails with an easy level of difficulty. They're also some of the most scenic hikes in Minnesota.

1. Silver Creek Trail

Located in Jay Cooke State Park is Minnesota's Silver Creek Trail. In addition to hiking, this 3.5-mile loop trail is also a popular area for camping and road biking. The Silver Creek Trail is a wonderful trail to visit all year long.

2. Pike Island Loop

Minnesota's Pike Island Loop is located in Fort Snelling State Park. It's a 3.7-mile loop trail that's a well-known spot for birding and cross-country skiing, in addition to hiking. This scenic trail is also a great one to explore no matter the time of year.

3. High Falls Trail

Grand Portage State Park is home to High Falls Trail. This Minnesota trail is a 1.1-mile out-and-back trail that's great for the entire family. The best time of year for exploring Minnesota's High Falls Trail is from May to October.

What is one of the best kid-friendly trails in Minnesota?

If you have kids and have been wanting to bring them hiking with you, you probably already know how difficult it can sometimes be to find trails appropriate for them. If you've been searching high and low for some of the best kid-friendly hikes around Minnesota, look no further than the Fifth Falls and Superior Hiking Trail Loop. Located in Gooseberry Falls State Park, this 3-mile loop trail has an easy level of difficulty and is a well-known area for hiking, birding, and road biking. The best time of year to explore this kid-friendly trail is from March to October.

Related Articles

Explore Minnesota

Featured Addresses
Beaver Creek Valley State Park, County Road 1, Caledonia, MN, USA