You're invited: no experience needed!



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"June 2025"

A family smiles while taking a selfie during a hike. [ [link removed] ]

??: The 2.7-mile Bluffside Trail at Frontenac State Park offers views of both the In Yan Teopa rock and bluffs along the river.

Beginner's Guide to State Parks and Trails

You’re invited to explore Minnesota’s state parks and trails [ [link removed] ]—no experience needed! Whether you’re curious about hiking, eager to camp for the first time, or just looking for a peaceful place to unwind, we’ve got beginner-friendly tips, tools, and inspiration to help you get started with confidence.

Already a seasoned explorer? Consider forwarding this newsletter to a friend or family member who’s just getting started. You might be the reason they fall in love with Minnesota’s great outdoors. Let’s help more people feel welcome in wild places—because every journey starts with a first step.

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5 Beginner-Friendly Adventures to Try ✅

*1. Plan a Day Trip with a Picnic*

Sometimes the best way to start is to keep it simple. Pack a lunch, grab your water bottle, and head to a nearby state park [ [link removed] ] for a low-key day of relaxing and exploring. Most parks have picnic areas with tables, flush restrooms, and nearby hiking trails that lead to scenic overlooks or lakeside views. No reservation needed!

A family laughs together at a picnic table at a state park. [ [link removed] ]

*2. Bike, Roll, or Stroll a Paved State Trail*

Minnesota’s state trail system [ [link removed] ] includes hundreds of miles of paved, mostly flat trails—perfect for bikes, rollerblades, strollers, wheelchairs, or walkers. Options like the *Gateway [ [link removed] ]*, *Paul Bunyan* [ [link removed] ], and *Root River* [ [link removed] ] state trails offer rest stops, towns, and shaded stretches ideal for your first outing. Grab a friend or the family for a state trail stroll. Go your own pace for as far as you'd like while enjoying the scenery!

A person rides an adaptive bike down a paved state trail. [ [link removed] ]

*3. Join an I Can! Program*

If you’re curious about camping, fishing, paddling, archery, or mountain biking, the I Can! programs [ [link removed] ] are the perfect place to start. Hosted in Minnesota state parks, these hands-on, beginner-friendly classes provide the gear and the guidance—you just show up ready to learn and have fun! They’re especially great for families.

A family stands behind kayaks while holding paddles. [ [link removed] ]

*4. Attend a Naturalist Program*

Let a knowledgeable guide lead the way! Many parks offer free naturalist-led programs [ [link removed] ] like wildflower walks, birding hikes, or animal tracking adventures. These are especially great for curious minds and anyone who wants to learn more about Minnesota’s natural wonders. Prefer to explore on your own? Stop by the park office for a Junior Ranger [ [link removed] ] booklet to learn and explore independently.

A naturalist shows a group of attendees a piece of bark. [ [link removed] ]

*5. Pick an Iconic Minnesota Water Feature to Explore*

If you're not sure where to go or what would be exciting to see, start with what Minnesota is known for—water! Minnesota state parks are home to some of the most incredible water features in the country. Stop by *Itasca State Park* [ [link removed] ] and dip your toes in the very beginning of the Mississippi River at the headwaters. Pack a swimsuit and towel to enjoy the swimming beach [ [link removed] ] at *Father Hennepin [ [link removed] ]* or *Lake Carlos* [ [link removed] ] state parks. You can also view the spectacular "underground "Turquoise Lake at *Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park* [ [link removed] ] on a cave tour—yes, it really is turquoise! Last but not least, Minnesota has no shortage of waterfalls to explore, from *Minneopa* [ [link removed] ] to *Grand Portage,* [ [link removed] ] the curtains of rushing water are sure to inspire.

A small waterfall flows into a calm stream. [ [link removed] ]

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Try a Tour! ??‍➡️

Expert-led experiences are perfect for first-time visitors.
Three photos side by side show groups taking the prairie and bison tour, pothole tour, and cave tour. [ [link removed] ]

If you're just getting started with Minnesota state parks, guided tours are one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to explore. Led by expert naturalists, these tours take the guesswork out of your visit and introduce you to the landscapes, wildlife, and natural history that make each park unique. Check out the events calendar [ [link removed] ] and tours [ [link removed] ] webpage to find detailed date information and how to make reservations. 

??️ *Potholes Guided Tour* 

Explore glacial potholes and unique geology! Join a naturalist-led tour at *Interstate State Park* [ [link removed] ] to explore the park’s famous glacial potholes—some of the deepest in the world. Uncover stories hidden within scenic river views. Discover how massive lava flows, glacial rivers, and human interest in the area shaped the landscape. Expect rocky terrain and short stairs on this 1/4-mile walk. Tours are free. 

??️ *Mystery Cave Tours* 

Venture into the hidden underground world of Minnesota’s longest cave. Mystery Cave at *Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park* [ [link removed] ] covers over 13 miles of underground passages created as water dissolves the rock. Each tour walks you through different cave paths with a knowledgeable guide and will showcase natural wonders like stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, fossils, and beautiful underground pools. Walking tour options range from one hour to six hours. Prices vary by age and tour.

?? *Prairie and Bison Tour* 

Experience the beauty of native Minnesota prairie as you travel into the bison range on an educational 90-minute tour. *Blue Mounds State Park* [ [link removed] ] is home to part of the Minnesota Bison Conservation Herd, which is managed to protect wild bison. The open-sided prairie tour vehicle holds 12 passengers. Tour dates and reservation information can be found on the park’s website. Tickets are $15 for ages 13+ and $10 for ages 4-12. 

⛏️ Soudan Surface Tours

After an extreme flooding event in 2024, the underground tours at *Lake Vermilion/Soudan Underground Mine State Park* [ [link removed] ] were suspended. Park staff are working hard to repair the damage and ensure the safety of the route. In the meantime, visitors are invited to tour the mine's buildings and features on the surface. Every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. you can join a naturalist for a tour of the crusher house, headframe, rescue room, and so much more! Tours are free and start at the top of the hour. Meet at the Dry House/Visitor Center to get started. 

Learn More [ [link removed] ]

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Tips and Tricks
What's a Vehicle Permit & How Do I Get One? ??

2025 State Park Vehicle Permit featuring the waterfalls at George H. Crosby State Park. [ [link removed] ]

If you’re driving into a Minnesota state park or recreation area, you’ll need a vehicle permit [ [link removed] ]. You can choose a one-day permit for $7, or a year-round permit for $35.

Year-round permits are valid for one year from the "month" of purchase. For example, if you buy a permit today (June 5, 2025), your new permit will be valid through June 30, 2026. 

Permits can be purchased online or in person at park offices. If you buy your permit online, display your order confirmation number on your vehicle's dash when you are in a park until your sticker arrives.

A variety of discount permits are available, such as for people with disabilities, active military member households, or second vehicle permits. Review all discounts on our website [ [link removed] ].



Learn More [ [link removed] ]

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What If I Get Lost? ??️

GeoPDFs show where you are—even without cell service.
A person hikes in the background while a hand in the foreground holds up a phone showing their location on a map. [ [link removed] ]

Do you worry about getting lost when you're out in the woods or on the water? Discover geoPDF maps [ [link removed] ] and never lose your way! When you use geoPDF maps on your mobile device, a blue dot will show your location on the map as you move—even when your phone has NO service! This feature is available for every Minnesota state park, state trail, and state water trail.

The first step is downloading the free Avenza app to your mobile device. Next, you will download the park or trail map that you are visiting. In Avenza, search "MNDNR" plus the state park or trail name you are looking for. All state park and trail maps are free. 

Learn More [ [link removed] ]

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Claim Your Campsite ??️

"Explore availability, set notifications, and reserve your stay online."
A campsite at night with a graphic overlay showing the 'Notify Me' button on the reservation site. [ [link removed] ]

You can reserve Minnesota state park campsites [ [link removed] ] up to *120 days in advance* on the reservation website. Use the online map to explore parks, check availability, and compare site types (tent, RV, camper cabins, electric, and more). You can also purchase your state park vehicle permit from the same website, so you’re ready to go when you arrive.

If the campsite you want is already booked, don’t give up! Try the “Notify Me” feature on the reservation site. Just click “Notify Me” for your desired dates and site, and you’ll receive an email if that site becomes available—perfect for last-minute openings or cancellations.

Once you make a reservation, remember that check-in is required by 11 a.m. the morning after your reservation starts. For example, if your reservation begins on Friday, you must check in or be set up by 11 a.m. Saturday morning. If you can’t arrive by then, be sure to call or email the park office to let them know. If park staff don’t hear from you, your reservation will be canceled without refund.

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Adventure for All! ♿

"Variety of accessibility options available to state park visitors. "

Minnesota state parks should be accessible for everyone to enjoy. Studies continue to show the health benefits of time spent in nature. Last year, the DNR announced plans for accessibility improvements across state parks, including trails, naturalist programming, and facility modernizations. These improvements further expand Minnesotans' recreation opportunities!

A person smiles while sitting in an all terrain track chair in a state park. [ [link removed] ]

*Adaptive Outdoor Equipment* 

New adaptive equipment will be added to multiple state parks in the coming year. There are now 24 state parks with all-terrain track chairs [ [link removed] ]. These electric-powered chairs help visitors explore more rugged areas of the parks. Some parks will receive floating beach chairs, accessible beach mats, accessible kayak launch ramps, non-motorized all-terrain chairs, color vision glasses, and adaptive listening devices. Reserving equipment is free and available to anyone who has a need. 

*Language Access* 

Did you know state park visitors can request language access services [ [link removed] ]? By contacting park staff or a program coordinator, the DNR will make a reasonable effort to ensure visitors have access to the accommodation they need, such as an interpreter. The DNR’s Language Access Plan was implemented in 2022 to help visitors request language interpretation for classes, guided hikes, and informational documents. 

*Camping* 

Visitors can reserve accessible campsites and camper cabins [ [link removed] ] on the state parks reservation page. When making a reservation, visitors can look for the ADA icon (♿) to reserve a camping spot designed to accommodate those with physical disabilities. For Minnesota residents with physical disabilities, half-priced camping is available Sunday through Thursday nights. It does not apply to any cabins or group sites. 

*Exhibits and Signage* 

Educational exhibits and park signage are becoming more accessible and interactive. Simple design features like large text, high-contrast colors, and accessible heights improve ADA compliance. Multisensory exhibit elements incorporate tactile objects, audio elements, braille translations, and even scents! Audio description tour devices are also available at select visitor centers, preloaded with exhibit information. And, to better help neurodiverse visitors, state parks now offer sensory kits that include fidgets, earmuffs, and calming tools. Check a park’s webpage [ [link removed] ] under the amenities tab or contact the park to see what accommodations they have.



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Where Will You Explore? ??

"ParkFinder guides visitors to hidden gems and amazing overlooks."
Map of Minnesota with dots marking all the state parks. [ [link removed] ]

Need help picking what state park or trail to explore? We’ve got you covered!

ParkFinder [ [link removed] ] is an interactive map that allows you to zoom into the area of the state you're looking to visit. You can also filter by different options like paved trails, waterfalls, rentals, fire towers, and more. 

Learn More [ [link removed] ]



We Are the Champions*??*

"*Devil's Kettle Trail voted number 1 in the nation!*"
A stairway leads down through a forest in fall. A waterfall splits in two as it falls into the river below. [ [link removed] ]

You will find many geological wonders along Lake Superior's North Shore, but only one waterfall surrounded by decades of mystery, where half the river seemingly disappears into a bottomless hole. The Devil's Kettle Trail at *Judge C.R. Magney State Park [ [link removed] ]* has officially been named Best Hiking Trail in the U.S. by USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards! Voters nationwide chose Devil’s Kettle Trail as the best among 19 best hiking trail nominees. 

“Our visitors have always been captivated by the Devil’s Kettle Trail, and this recognition confirms what we’ve known all along — it’s one of the most unique and rewarding hikes in the country,” said Erin Turner-Garza, park supervisor at Judge C.R. Magney State Park. 

The scenic two-mile trail leads hikers along the Brule River and up a wooden staircase to the iconic Devil's Kettle, where the river splits at the top of the falls. One side plunges 50 feet into a pool, while the other vanishes into a massive rock pothole. For years, visitors and geologists alike were stumped. Where did the water go?  

In 2017, DNR hydrologists came to a scientific conclusion, confirming that the 'lost' water doesn't travel far. It re-emerges within 500 feet downstream. 




Start Planning Fall Trips Now ??

State park reservations [ [link removed] ] can be made up to 120 days in advance. That window now stretches into the first week of October! Plan your fall colors trip today—sites book fast. And don't forget to sign up for the Fall Colors newsletter [ [link removed] ]. Each week you'll get the latest Minnesota Fall Color Finder Map sent straight to your inbox—the perfect tool for planning a weekend of leaf peeping. 

Find Fall Colors [ [link removed] ]


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*Minnesota Department of Natural Resources  |  mndnr.gov [ [link removed] ] *

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