Posted in Minnesota Nature March 02, 2021 by

Most People Don’t Realize An Underground River Flows Right Through Minnesota

Minnesota has many beautiful – and often mysterious – attractions. From the strange story of the Kensington Runestone to the newly solved mystery of the Devil’s Kettle, this state is full of unique places to see. One of Minnesota’s most beautiful hidden treasures is actually underground.

In southern Minnesota, the Root River ambles its way east from Chatfield, to meet the Mississippi River. But along the way, it dips below ground to become a subterranean river with otherworldly beauty. Luckily for Minnesotans, we can visit the underground river in Minnesota at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park. Take a look:

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
The Root River flows through a beautiful part of southeastern Minnesota.
Navin Rajagopalan/Flickr
From Chatfield, it flows east for 80 miles until it meets the Mississippi River.
It passes alongside the jagged bluffs of the Driftless Area, offering visitors who travel along the Root River Trail a breathtaking view.
Jonathunder/Wikimedia
The river's flow is gentle with moderate drops along its length.
MPCA Photos/Flickr
This makes it a popular spot for canoeing.
The river's South Branch is equally beautiful.
MPCA Photos/Flickr
It flows south, eventually going underground in Preston. The area now contains Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park.
Mystery Cave is Minnesota's longest cave.
The Greater Southwestern Exploration Company/Flickr
Several different tours take visitors alongside the interesting underground formations, including stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors may even run into bats.
During your tour, it's possible to hear the water of the South Branch of the Root River flowing into the cave.
Sharon Somero/Flickr
It's a fascinating experience that shows just how complex this cave system is.
Of course, the main attraction of the tour is the beautiful, still pool known as Turquoise Lake.
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
It's not part of the river, but it shows just how much water flows through the Mystery Cave.
When the South Branch of the Root River finally resurfaces above ground, its temperature is around 48 degrees Fahrenheit.
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
Having been cooled by the conditions underground, it is now a perfect spot for trout fishing.

Have you ever visited the state park that contains this underground river? Let us know what you thought! If you love exploring Minnesota’s off-the-beaten-track spots, also check out this list of 7 mysterious, unusual spots in Minnesota that you never knew existed.

Address: 21071 County Road 118, Preston, Minnesota, 55965

Address: 21071 County Rd 118, Preston, MN 55965, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

Underground River in Minnesota

March 07, 2021
Tori Jane

What are some Minnesota rivers to visit?

Minnesota is a state filled with incredibly beautiful rivers, ponds, and streams. There are hundreds to choose from. Some of our favorites include the Rainy River, an 85-mile-long stretch of beautiful, clear, flowing water, the Saint Croix River, which is an amazing 165 miles long, and, of course, we are home to our very own portion of the 2,318-mile-long Mississippi River. The rivers we listed are just some of the more popular ones; you can take your pick from literally hundreds of smaller, lesser-appreciated rivers as well. Check out this article for our picks for some other amazing Minnesota rivers.

What are some fun facts about Minnesota?

Minnesota has lots of interesting and amusing tidbits of history. It’s the 32nd state of the US, and it’s the 12th largest state in the US as well. Despite that size advantage, though, we rank as the 21st most populated state. There are 11,842 lakes all over the state! If you were to add up the lengths of every river and stream in Minnesota, you’d end up with 69,200 miles of running water. We could go on forever – there’s so much about this state to adore and admire.

What hidden treasures can I find in Minnesota?

One of the best things about Minnesota is the amazingly dynamic nature of all the things there is to do here. What’s even better, we can choose from all kinds of less-appreciated things – hidden gems, if you will – throughout the state to ensure that we’re not overwhelmed by the public. Some of our favorite Minnesota hidden gems are Niagara Cave, in Harmony, which is a beautiful slot canyon that leads to a winding and deep cave system. When it’s in town, the Little Box Sauna (usually in Minneapolis) is a genuine Finnish hot-rock sauna that can’t be beat in terms of relaxation. Check out this article for more ideas about great hidden gems.

Address: 21071 County Rd 118, Preston, MN 55965, USA