This Minnesota Waterfall Loop Will Take You to 8 Scenic Waterfalls

When most Minnesotans think of a Minnesota waterfall loop, our minds immediately go to the North Shore. And it's true, many of the state's most beautiful waterfalls are along this gorgeous section of Minnesota. But there are plenty of other waterfalls to discover in other regions of the state. In fact, almost every region has at least one waterfall. Today, we want to introduce a waterfall loop that will take you on a Minnesota waterfall tour of some of the prettiest falls in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. If you live in the southern part of the state, you'll be delighted to learn about these incredible falls. From familiar favorites to hidden beauties, the waterfalls on this scenic, 340-mile Minnesota waterfalls road trip are sure to impress—and I think it would make an excellent weekend getaway.

Why This Is One of the Best Waterfall Road Trips in Minnesota

Compared to places like the North Shore, southern Minnesota is often overlooked as a destination for waterfall chasers. This Minnesota waterfall loop, however, will change your perspective. A drive along this route offers the chance to take in urban landmarks, beautiful state parks, and some of our state's lesser-known gems along the way. Make a weekend road trip out of it, and enjoy rushing spring runoff, a cool summer getaway, or the fabulous fall foliage in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

1. Minnehaha Falls - Minneapolis

Our route starts with a favorite of many Minnesotans: Minnehaha Falls. This 53-foot urban waterfall's a popular spot for those in the Twin Cities metro looking to spend a little time outdoors. I think the best seasons to visit are spring for the thundering runoff or winter when it freezes into a stunning wall of ice. Parking can fill up fast on nice weekends, so it's smart to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds. There are many trails that offer views from both the top and the base of the waterfall, and they're well worth exploring for their excellent views of peaceful Minnehaha Creek. When you've worked up an appetite, pop in to Sea Salt Eatery—it's right in the park—for some local flavor. It's no wonder Minnehaha Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Minnesota.

2. Vermillion Falls - Hastings

After kickstarting your waterfall tour in Minneapolis, head southeast to Hastings. Here, you'll find the lesser-known Vermillion Falls. This 35-foot waterfall in a park along the Vermillion River is a popular pitstop with an accessible overlook offering scenic river views. Hastings' historic vibe also makes the town a fun place to explore, as well. While you're there, be sure to check out the fascinating Minnesota ruins near the falls. The park offers places where you can enjoy a picnic or simply sit and take in the views. Afterward, explore all that charming Hastings has to offer, like the pedestrian bridge lined with love locks.

3. Hidden Falls - Nerstrand-Big Woods State Park

Next, you'll head southwest toward Nerstrand-Big Woods State Park, near Northfield. Although the park's named for its remnant Big Woods biome, there's another must-see attraction in this 2,800-acre preserve: Hidden Falls. It's a relatively small, 20-foot waterfall on Prairie Creek, but it's definitely got some charm. The Hidden Falls trail is a short, easy hike through the understory of the remnant hardwood forest. I think it's perfect for seasonal photography opportunities, especially when spring wildflowers are popping, or fall colors are at their brightest.

4. Caron Falls - Cannon City

Near Cannon City, you'll find another little-known waterfall that's well worth visiting. Like Hidden Falls, Caron Falls is just a few feet high. But what it lacks in height, it makes up for in peace and quiet. As one of the lesser-known waterfall hikes in Minnesota, it's unlikely that you'll run into many other visitors while you're here, which is why it's a true hidden gem.

5. Minnemishinona Falls - Belgrade Township

Next up is a secret waterfall that not many people know about. Minnemishinona Falls is a 42-foot waterfall just outside of Mankato. There's a scenic overlook that leads to a walking bridge high above the falls. Here, you'll have great views of the deep gorge that the waterfall flows into. It's one of my favorite secret spots in southern Minnesota, and it's absolutely beautiful.

6. Minneopa Falls - Minneopa State Park

Not far from Minnemishinona Falls, you'll find the much more popular Minneopa Falls at Minneopa State Park in Mankato. This waterfall actually has two drops—one's just a few feet tall, and the other plunges 40 feet into a rocky gorge. To see the falls up close, take the easy trail that leads down into the gorge. I think some of the best views, however, are found above the creek, near the scenic bridge over the waterfall. While you're visiting, make sure to check out the park's famous bison herd. More details are available on the official Minneopa State Park website.

7. Red Rock Falls - Sanborn

Here's another little-known waterfall where you're likely to find few other visitors. Though this part of Minnesota is known more for its fields and prairies, it's home to a hidden secret: a small waterfall that flows into a deep, rock-lined gorge at Red Rock County Park in tiny Sanborn, Minnesota. The waterfall's small, but it's beautiful. You'll definitely want to add this one to your list.

8. Ramsey Falls - Redwood Falls

Last on our waterfall loop is Ramsey Falls at the Alexander Ramsey Municipal Park in Redwood Falls. This park is often referred to as the "Little Yellowstone of Minnesota" due to its ruggedly beautiful terrain. There's a lot to discover here, from trails and picnic areas to a zoo. But the main attraction for many people is the stunning Ramsey Falls. This surprisingly tall waterfall has a magnificent drop into a rocky gorge below. You're definitely in for a treat when you visit this breathtaking southern Minnesota waterfall.

Tips for Planning This Minnesota Waterfall Road Trip

Many of the stops on this trip are easy-access waterfalls in Minnesota, meaning you won't need to pack for a long hike in order to see them. Just make sure to have a vehicle permit to visit the falls in state parks, keep some comfortable walking shoes or boots handy, bring water, and always dress for the weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the best time of year to see waterfalls in Minnesota? Spring is generally the best time to see the falls at their fullest because of the winter snowmelt. In the fall, however, you'll get beautiful backdrops from the autumn foliage. In winter, if they freeze, many of Minnesota's waterfalls become dramatic ice sculptures.
• Are these waterfalls easy to access? Yes, most of the stops on this route have overlooks or require a short, level hike from a nearby parking area.
• Can this waterfall loop be done in one weekend? It sure can. Since the total drive is around 340 miles, you can easily split it between Saturday and Sunday without feeling rushed.

This Minnesota waterfall loop goes to show that not all of Minnesota's beauty is "up north"—we've got plenty of it down here in the southern part of the state, as well. Happy exploring!