11 Best Small Towns in Minnesota for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes. A state with some of the most beautiful pieces of nature found in the Midwest. From the headwaters of the Mississippi River to the breathtaking state parks, this state has something for all outdoor enthusiasts, no matter what time of the year. Take a weekend to explore some of the best towns for nature lovers in this incredible state.
Stillwater
Welcome to one of the oldest yet most stunning towns in Minnesota. Founded in 1854, Stillwater is a must-go destination any time of the year. Located on the border between Minnesota and Wisconsin, this small town has access to some of the best views in the State. Starting off, take a bike ride on the 5.9-mile Brown's Creek Trail. Following a former railroad grade, this trail is easy enough for beginners yet charming enough for enthusiasts to enjoy as well. At the same time, there is a picnic at Brown's Creek Park to help recover from that ride. Appreciate the beauty of the St. Croix River at the Arcola Bluffs Trail, where you will have one of the best views in town.
Red Wing
Just south of the Twin Cities, you will find yourself in one of the most stunning places in Minnesota, Red Wing. While this town is known for its rich history, its access to the outdoors also puts this small town on the map. Check out Frontenac State Park, where more than 260 different species of birds, such as loons and eagles, have been observed! While there, hit the hiking trails for some of the best views of the Mississippi River. If you want to watch the sunset, go to Levee Park and watch the river. Then, go to Barn Bluff, where you can climb to the top to see the river, the valley, and Lake Pepin.
Taylors Falls
Situated in the mid-eastern part of the state, hidden by bluffs and cliffs, Taylors Falls is waiting for visitors. With a population under 1,000, it is quiet most of the year, but summers can get crowded. Sitting on the border with Wisconsin, Taylor Falls is also home to the Interstate State Park. Its location along the St. Croix River allows visitors to explore the cliffs, canoe, kayak, and be one with nature. There are also boat tours for those not wanting to battle the river. Come in the winter and experience Wild Mountain. Here, you can ski to your heart's content. Finally, if you need to spend the night without camping, go to Wannigan Point Cabins, where you will be surrounded by nature and only a few miles out of the way.
Grand Marais
Located along Lake Superior, one of the best hiking destinations in Minnesota is waiting, Grand Marais. One of the most popular hikes in the area is Lookout Mountain Loop, where people are out hiking or running year-round. Eagle Mountain Trail is calling if you want to go on a longer hike. It is not for the faint of heart, however, if you are willing to walk 7 miles, you will find it hard to discover a more alluring location. On Lake Superior, it would be criminal not to check out the shoreline. Check out the flat rock peninsula of Artist's Point to see some of the most unique shorelines on the lake.
Ely
With a population of around 4,000, Ely is a town for all who love nature. You will find something to do year-round, from hiking to camping to fishing to dog sledding. There are a number of popular hiking trails in the area, some of the most popular being Bass Lake Trail and Angleworm Trail. For beginners, Bass Lake Trail is what locals recommend as it is shorter (5.6 miles) and can be done quickly in a day. While there, look for local wildlife such as moose, bear, and deer. Angleworm is a longer trail (14 miles) but is excellent for camping and looking at different plants. Do not forget to visit in winter and do a bit of cross-country skiing at one of the many trails, such as North Arm Ski Trail or North Junction Ski Trail and keep an eye out for deer, foxes, and rabbits.
Bemidji
At the headwaters of the Mississippi, the peaceful town of Bemidji is here to welcome you. This small town is home to giant Paul and Babe statues and has much to offer nature lovers at Lake Bemidji State Park, where you will find 11 miles of trails to walk or cycle. While there, you may see some local wildlife like deer, porcupines, or even beavers. For backpackers, Chippewa National Forest is where you can backpack through some of the almost 300 miles that cover the trail. While here, it is hard to ignore the delightful Lake Bemidji. Take a day to rent canoes or kayaks, and go to the headwaters of the Mississippi. Also, cycle or walk around the Paul Bunyan trail around the entire lake before appreciating a meal downtown.
Lanesboro
In the southeastern corner of Minnesota, you will find yourself in the quiet town of Lanesboro. With under 800 residents, this town has an authentic tiny town feet. Discover Minnesota's longest cave at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park, where you can go on a number of tours with different degrees of difficulty. There is also Niagara Cave, which is one of the largest limestone caverns in the Midwest. Take a ride to Root River Bike Trail, where you can enjoy the 60 miles of trails, incredible views of different rivers, and gorgeous countryside.
Park Rapids
Making your way to northern Minnesota, you will find Park Rapids, one of the cutest small towns in the state. Visiting here for the weekend may end with you returning again and again. Besides the magnificent lakes, you can find yourself at several amazing parks. Go to Itasca State Park and be blown away by its beauty. While you do have to pay to check it out, it is well worth the low $7 day pass. See how many native plant species you can find in the over 32,000-acre park. The Chippewa National Forest is another must-see. Spanning over 600,000 acres, you can participate in several water activities and hiking. Rent a bike to experience the almost 50-mile Heartland State Trail and be amazed by the scenery.
Pipestone
Going towards the border between Minnesota and South Dakota is the town of Pipestone. While this may not be a common destination for many, it should become one due to its rich history and beauty. A must-do is the Pipestone National Monument. This is home to the historic Pipestone quarries. American Indians visited the quarries to acquire pipestone used in ceremonial pipes. While here, take a short walk along Pipestone Creek and watch birds. Then, take some time and take in Winnewissa Falls, especially in the fall, to observe the local birds such as pheasant or horned lar. While in the area, take a hike at Blue Mounds State Park. You can climb the 100-foot tall Sioux quartzite cliff here along a 3-mile loop. While hiking, do not be surprised to see a herd of bison in the morning or late in the day.
Biwabik
Biwabik is a small town hidden in the north that makes you think you flew to Europe and ended up in Germany. Welcome to the Bavarian (Southern Germany) inspired city of Biwabik. While it is well known for Giants Ridge, which provides golfing and skiing, there is still plenty of nature to see here. You may also want to go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hiking, or snow biking here. Leaving Giants Ridge, take a stroll around the Mesabi Trail. This trail spans more than 135 miles and will take you through some of the most stunning forests, lakes, and historic towns. If you come in winter, you may have to watch out for snowmobilers experiencing the beauty for themselves. Head to Vermilion Gorge and Vermilion River, where you can spend a day kayaking, fishing, and watching wildlife.
Fergus Falls
Following I-94 northwest of Minneapolis, you will find the picturesque town of Fergus Falls. During your visit here, it is almost guaranteed that you will not be bored. Starting with a birdwatcher's dream, stroll along the Pine and Prairie birding trail. While this is a 300-mile trail, take a day, cover as much ground as you feel comfortable, and see how many species you can spot. Hike along one of the many North Country National Scenic Trails. Or in town, find Red Sox Park. If hiking and camping interests you, then Maplewood State Park is calling your name.
Minnesota is a state that provides some of the most amazing sights in the US, with breathtaking trails to wander, many different animal species to observe, and incredible experiences to enjoy year-round. Minnesota is home to several towns that any outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves returning to year round. Travel and relish all that this land of 10,000 lakes offers!
