When most Minnesotans think of a Minnesota waterfalls 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 waterfalls tour of some of the prettiest falls in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. If you’ve ever researched “waterfalls near me in Minnesota,” and 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 Minnesota waterfalls road trip are sure to impress.

This Minnesota waterfall tour covers a wide swath of southern Minnesota, starting in Minneapolis and quickly heading west. The route on this Minnesota waterfalls map is about 340 miles. It would make a great weekend trip.
Google Maps
Tap or click on the map for to open the full route, including driving directions, in Google Maps.

1. Minnehaha Falls

Minnehaha Falls, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USA
Anita Gould/Flickr
The route starts with a favorite of many Minnesotans: Minnehaha Falls. This 53-foot urban waterfall is a popular spot for those in the Twin Cities metro looking to spend a little time outdoors. There are many trails that offer views from both the top and the base of the waterfall. They are well worth exploring, as they also offer excellent views of peaceful Minnehaha Creek. It's no wonder that Minnehaha Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Minnesota.

2. Vermillion Falls

Vermilion Falls Road, Vermilion Falls Rd, Crane Lake Township, MN, USA
Tim ODonnell/Google
After kickstarting your waterfall tour in Minneapolis, head east into Hastings. Here, you'll find the lesser known Vermillion Falls. This 35-foot waterfall along the Vermillion River is a common pitstop. While you're there, be sure to explore these fascinating Minnesota ruins. There are places near the falls to have a picnic or simply sit and take in the view. Afterward, explore all that beautiful Hastings has to offer.

3. Hidden Falls

Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, 170th Street East, Nerstrand, MN, USA
Phil/Flickr
Next, you'll head south, to Nerstrand-Big Woods State Park. Although this park is named for the Big Woods biome its 2,800 acres preserve, there's another must-see attraction: Hidden Falls. Hidden Falls is a small, 20-foot waterfall on Prairie Creek. Surrounded by the thick woods, it's a perfectly peaceful stop on your waterfall loop. Learn more about visiting this breathtaking destination in Minnesota.

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4. Caron Falls

Caron Park, Northfield, MN 55057, USA
Galen Murray/Google
Near Northfield, Minnesota, there is another little-known waterfall that is 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. Being a little-known waterfall, it's unlikely that you'll run into many other visitors while you're there. Take your time to soak in the gently flowing waters of this tree-lined creek waterfall. Learn more about planning your adventure to Caron Falls.

5. Minnemishinona Falls

Minnemishinona Falls, Belgrade Township, MN 56003, USA
Ryan Gohlinghorst/Google
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 the tallest falls in southern Minnesota, and it's absolutely beautiful.

6. Minneopa Falls

Minneopa Falls, South Bend Township, MN 56001, USA
Dale Bohlke/Flickr
Near Minnemishinona Falls is the much more popular Minneopa Falls found at Minneopa State Park. This waterfall actually has two drops. One is just a few feet tall, and the other drops 40 feet into a rocky gorge. If you'd like to see the falls up close, there is a lovely trail that leads down into the gorge. But some of the best views are found above, along the scenic stone bridge that crosses the waterfall. Learn more about visiting this stunning double waterfall in Minnesota.

7. Red Rock Falls

Red Rock Falls County Park, 48771 250th St, Sanborn, MN 56083, USA
Gina Stillwell/Google
Here's another little-known waterfall where you're likely to find few other visitors. Though this part of Minnesota is known for its fields and prairies, it is home to a hidden secret. Red Rock County Park in tiny Sandborn, Minnesota, has a small waterfall that flows into a deep, rock-lined gorge. The waterfall is small, but it is by no means not beautiful. Learn more about Red Rock Falls and why you'll want to visit.

8. Ramsey Falls

Ramsey Falls, Redwood Falls, MN 56283, USA
Sir king man/TripAdvisor
Last on our waterfall loop is Ramsey Falls at the enormous Alexander Ramsey Park. There's a lot to discover this park, from trails to picnic areas to a zoo. But the main attraction for many people is the ruggedly beautiful Ramsey Falls. This tall waterfall has a magnificent drop into a rocky gorge below. The beautiful sight is easy to see from a distance, though many choose to hike to the top of the waterfall as well. Either way, you're in for a treat when you visit this breathtaking southern Minnesota waterfall.

What do you think? Did we miss anything on this southern Minnesota waterfalls road trip? Let us know in the comments! And when you hop out of the car to hit hike to these waterfalls, you’ll want to have an app like AllTrails Plus with you to help with navigation. We hope we’ve provided some inspiration for the next time you’re wondering, What are some waterfalls near me in Minnesota? Happy exploring!

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More to Explore

Waterfalls Near Me In Minnesota

Beth C. | September 15, 2021

What are Minnesota's most incredible waterfalls?

It stands to reason that a state nicknamed The Land Of 10,000 Lakes would also boast some pretty spectacular waterfalls. And it does! Now that you've learned about some beautiful waterfalls in southern Minnesota, it's time to learn about some of the state's other waterfalls. At the top of the list is Gooseberry Falls, located in the namesake Gooseberry Falls State Park. What makes this waterfall so spectacular is that there are three levels of falls and they're simply beautiful in any season. Plus, this natural wonder is located just steps from the parking lot, making it a fairly easy-to-access destination. Other waterfalls you'll want to check out include Highfalls, Illgen Falls, the falls at George H. Crosby Manitou State Park, Temperance River Falls, Cascades, the Devil's Kettle & Upper Falls, and the High Falls. Have you been to any of these iconic waterfalls in Minnesota?

Does Minnesota have any natural wonders?

Absolutely! If you're a fan of natural wonders, Minnesota will not disappoint. Some of our top recommendations would be Gooseberry Falls, Niagara Cave, Artist's Point, Devil's Kettle, St. Croix River Dalles, BWCA, Pigeon River High Falls, Blue Mounds State Park, Palisade Head, and Eagle Mountain. Eagle Mountain is particularly impressive because it's the single highest point in the state. Measuring 2,301 feet, this landmark offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

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