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Best river hikes in Minnesota
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Best river hikes in Minnesota

Go with the flow on these riverside adventures! From gentle streams to powerful rapids, these hikes offer constant companionship with the sound of rushing water.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Minnesota.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Cascade River - Superior Hiking Trail

Cook County, Minnesota · star 4.4 (41) · 1.8 km · Est. 29 min

2

Easy

Lake Wobegon Regional Trail from Rivers Edge Park

Stearns County, Minnesota · star 4.6 (39) · 11.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 23 min

3

Easy

Hidden Falls, Hope, Fawn and White Oak Loop Trail

Rice County, Minnesota · star 4.4 (41) · 13.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 54 min

4

Easy

Cottonwood trail, Oxbow Trail and Woodland Trail Loop

Brown County, Minnesota · star 4.4 (42) · 4.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 4 min

5

Easy

Coldwater Spring Loop

Hennepin County, Minnesota · star 4.4 (31) · 1.6 km · Est. 21 min

6

Easy

Brown's Creek State Trail

Washington County, Minnesota · star 4.6 (45) · 10.1 km · Est. 2 hrs 13 min

7

Easy

Mississippi River East side Loop

Wright County, Minnesota · star 4.7 (17) · 3.2 km · Est. 40 min

8

Medium

Superior Hiking Trail

Cook County, Minnesota · star 4.4 (18) · 478.5 km · Est. 18 days

9

Easy

C C C Trail, Forbay Trail and Carlton Loop Trail

Carlton County, Minnesota · star 4.5 (54) · 9.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 3 min

10

Easy

Upper Iowa River Loop

Mower County, Minnesota · star 4.5 (45) · 1.9 km · Est. 24 min

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Reviews for river hikes in Minnesota

Kasey Watsica avatar

Cascade River - Superior Hiking Trail

RoverChaser88 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Chang Howell CPA avatar

Lake Wobegon Regional Trail from Rivers Edge Park

AspenRunner60 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Heidi Weissnat Jr. avatar

Hidden Falls, Hope, Fawn and White Oak Loop Trail

SeekerTrailguardian85 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Palmer Satterfield avatar

Cottonwood trail, Oxbow Trail and Woodland Trail Loop

HarborTrailstar92 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Samual Nienow VM avatar

Coldwater Spring Loop

GorgeSpruceseeker51 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Minnesota

What is the climate like for hiking in Minnesota?

Minnesota's humid continental climate offers diverse hiking experiences throughout the year. Summers, from June to August, are warm and can be humid, making lakeside trails especially appealing. However, winters can be very cold with heavy snow, turning trails into cross-country ski paths.
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) bring milder temperatures and less humidity, creating comfortable conditions for hiking. Additionally, spring unveils the state's blooming flora, while fall displays vibrant foliage.
In summary, spring and fall are the best times to hike in Minnesota, providing pleasant weather and stunning landscapes. Hikers should always check local forecasts and trail updates before setting out, possibly via the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website (https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/).

Do I need a permit to hike in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, general hiking doesn't usually require permits. However, specific activities like camping in state parks might. To ascertain the need for any permits, it's recommended to check with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/), the managing body for most public lands.

Is wild camping allowed in Minnesota?

Wild camping is allowed in Minnesota's national forests and certain state forests, subject to specific rules. Campers should follow Leave No Trace principles and regulations detailed by the U.S. Forest Service (https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/dispersed-camping) and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/).

Are there mountain rescue services in Minnesota?

In an emergency while hiking in Minnesota, call 911 for immediate assistance. Search and rescue operations are typically coordinated by local law enforcement or fire departments. For additional safety information and resources, consider visiting the Minnesota Search and Rescue Association website https://camsearchandrescue.com/minnesota-sar-team/

Are there dangerous plants in Minnesota?

Minnesota's trails encompass diverse ecosystems with flora like pine, birch, and maple trees, alongside numerous wildflowers. Be aware of poison ivy, especially in forested areas. For more information on the state's plant life, refer to the Minnesota Wildflowers website (https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Minnesota?

Minnesota's wildlife includes deer, squirrels, and numerous bird species. Watch for mosquitoes and ticks during warmer months; using repellents is advised. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website (https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/) offers an extensive guide to the state's wildlife and associated safety precautions.

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