When winter arrives in Minnesota, you don’t have to huddle inside for the next few months. There are plenty of reasons to do just the opposite. If you're a nature lover who wants to experience Minnesota's beauty in a different way, you may want to check out some of our many waterfalls while they're frozen solid. These 10 gorgeous frozen waterfalls in Minnesota will get you outside exploring this winter.
1. Illgen Falls
Illgen Falls is upstream from the High Falls at Tettegouche State Park. A quick walk down a short path brings you to the impressive frozen falls. If you can stand the cold, it's definitely worth the trip.
It’s one of the prettiest frozen waterfalls in Minnesota.
2. Minnehaha Falls
Who doesn't love a summertime visit to this 53-foot Minneapolis landmark? In winter, it's just as impressive. You can view the falls from above or take a magical walk behind the solid sheet of ice. Either way, you'll be glad you did.
If you’re in Minneapolis and looking for frozen waterfalls near me, check out this gorgeous 53-footer!
3. Gooseberry Falls
Minnesota's favorite state park gets even cooler in winter. When the famous Gooseberry Falls freezes over, the jagged ice meets with the rock cliffs to create a stunning, otherworldly effect.
Gooseberry Falls is one of the coolest waterfalls in Minnesota.
4. Winnewissa Falls
At Pipestone National Monument, Winnewissa Falls serves as a centerpoint. In winter, the sight is made more spectacular when the usually rushing water slows to a trickle - and then freezes completely.
Seeing Winnewissa Falls is one of our favorite things to do in Minnesota during the winter.
5. High Falls of the Pigeon River
The High Falls of the Pigeon River happens to be the highest waterfall in Minnesota. And in winter, the 120-foot-tall waterfall may also be the tallest frozen thing in the entire state. If you find yourself close to the Canadian border, check it out at Grand Portage State Park.
This tall waterfall is one of the most impressive frozen waterfalls in Minnesota.
6. Temperance River Falls
In summer, you can usually hear the waterfalls at Temperance River State Park. But when the falls are frozen over in winter, it makes for an unusual silence. And if you visit under a fresh blanket of snow, you're in for one of the most peaceful visits you will ever have.
These frozen waterfalls in Minnesota are absolutely breathtaking.
7. Devil's Kettle Falls
The Devil's Kettle is one of those things that keeps people coming back. When the waterfall that flows into the hole freezes, the mystery still lives on. Visit Judge C.R. Magney State Park in Grand Marais to draw your own conclusions about this enduring mystery.
We love checking out The Devil’s Kettle Falls; it’s one of our favorite things to do in Minnesota during the winter.
8. Como Falls
Have you ever heard of Hokah, Minnesota? We wouldn't be surprised if you haven't. But this small town lays claim to Como Park, which boasts a modest waterfall. Visit in winter for a chance to see the icy water up close.
9. Hidden Falls
There are a few Hidden Falls in Minnesota, but those at Nerstrand Big Wood State Park are especially cool - even when they're frozen. Why? Because the falls are just not as well known as some on larger rivers. But stretched solid across Prairie Creek, the frozen Hidden Falls makes for an impressive sight.
Hidden Falls is one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in Minnesota.
10. Minneopa Falls
Minneopa Falls are a favorite of many who live near Mankato. In fact, it's considered by some to be the most scenic waterfall in southern Minnesota. That rings true even in the winter. The trickles of Minneopa Creek freeze solid on their 40-foot plunge into the pool below, making them quite the sight to see. Check it out for yourself at Minneopa State Park
We love these frozen waterfalls in Minnesota!
Have you been to any of these frozen waterfalls in Minnesota? Let us know your favorite outdoor activity to do in the winter! And if you need to bundle up, we love the gear at North Face.
Looking for more winter activities? We love these eight places to visit in Minnesota in the winter!
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