The Natural Wonder in Minnesota That Is the Definition of a Hidden Gem

Following the sun's arc across the Land of 10,000 Lakes, most folks will notice pretty quickly that the soaring river bluffs and deep, wooded valleys in the east gradually give way to gently rolling prairies and shimmering glacial lakes in the west. This means that any place with a little elevation above the landscape in this part of Minnesota will have quite a bit of prominence. One such spot is Inspiration Peak, which you can access from its namesake wayside. It's not nearly as well known as other viewpoints in the state, and in my opinion, that's what makes it such a hidden gem natural wonder in Minnesota.

You'll find Inspiration Peak just west of Urbank, in Otter Tail County. It's part of a unique area called the Leaf Hills that was formed by a glacial moraine. Though it hasn't been accorded full park status, it is a designated state wayside - so that's something, anyway. Nobel Prize-winning author and Minnesota native Sinclair Lewis famously waxed lyrical about the hill, which was called Leaf Mountain by early pioneers. After folks got word of Lewis' love for the spot, it was renamed Inspiration Peak and more folks started visiting.

The peak rises about 200 feet above the surrounding terrain affording views of dozens of lakes over miles of plains and forest. The hike to the top is a moderate, half-mile loop. You'll feel it a bit on the way up, but the view is definitely worth the effort.

Inspiration Peak is a natural wonder that just doesn't get the same love as so many of the other incredible natural places in Minnesota, which is why I think it's a hidden gem that's worthy of being singled out. What's more, with its location in Otter Tail County, it's a natural wonder within a natural wonder - Otter Tail County is home to more lakes than any other county in the entire country - 1,048 - and that's pretty wondrous! Inspiration Peak is the best place to go to see a few of those lakes from a single viewpoint.

So, you may go to visit Inspiration Peak State Wayside, but you'll want to take some time to explore the whole county, which is home to two state parks - Maplewood and Glendalough - and adjacent to two more: Buffalo River and Lake Carlos. The charming community of Battle Lake and this enchanting lakefront cabin would make a perfect base camp for your adventures.