Explore Minnesota’s state parks and state recreation areas with this all-in-one guide. When you consider a visit to Minnesota’s state parks, you might imagine hiking, bicycling, camping, fishing, swimming, bird-watching, or simply relaxing beside a babbling river. Of course, you’re right. The beautiful parks are perfect escapes for your favorite outdoor activities—but there’s so much more to do. Minnesota’s state parks offer a multitude of unique experiences and new adventures! Discover them all in Minnesota State Parks by Anne Arthur and debut author Signy Sherman. Wade across the headwaters of the Mississippi River at Itasca State Park. Explore an open mine pit at Hill Annex Mine State Park or an underground mine at Lake Vermillion-Sudan Underground Mine State Park. Immerse yourself in history at Fort Snelling State Park or Fort Ridgely State Park. See the bison herd at Blue Mounds State Park. Tour the cave at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park. You’ll also have opportunities to try everything from archery to snowshoeing, stay in a cabin or yurt, or even go scuba-diving (if you have the training and equipment). This comprehensive guide spotlights all 75 state parks and state recreation areas in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Each entry includes full-color photography, a map, and the details you want to know—including a park overview and descriptions of the trails, campgrounds, and interpretive programs. Plus, the authors’ tips help to ensure that you maximize the fun. Inside you’ll find Guide to all 75 state parks and state recreation areas Maps that show hiking and biking trails at a glance Expert tips from the authors Nearby attractions that help you make the most of your vacation, road trip, or weekend getaway Get outside and connect with nature. It’s as easy as finding a nearby state park. Use Minnesota State Parks to choose the destinations that are right for you, or begin your journey to visit them all!

A handy reference for Minnesota residents and visitors showing each park's locations and general size; tips on what wo do once you get there; what facilities are offered; where the hiking and biking trails are located; other attractions in the area; and more.

Whether you're looking for a trail for a leisurely stroll, a bike ride with the family, or something a bit more challenging, you'll find it in this comprehensive trail guide highlighting the best, most highly rated trails in Minnesota. Many of the trails were converted from unused railroad corridors to become some of the best multiuse rail-trails in the state. In this guidebook, experts from Rail-to-Trails Conservancy present their final list of 48 of the best trails and rail-trails in Minnesota. Experience first-hand how Minnesota earned the nickname "Land of 10,000 Lakes" by taking one of several paths through the various lake districts, including the 121-mile Paul Bunyan State Trail, one of the longest rail-trails in the United States. In addition to details about each trail, Rail-Trails Minnesota also provides information about trail amenities, including restrooms, parking facilities, and water fountains.

Imagine a place where five waterfalls spill over billion-year-old rock, all within a mile of one another, where both incredible vistas of the world's largest freshwater lake and paths past an array of sweet-scented wildflowers await, where you can traipse through historic handcrafted stone buildings or alongside a creek meandering about an evergreen forest. The place is real: It's called Gooseberry Falls State Park, which many consider the crown jewel of Minnesota's multitude of natural gems. With this book, you can: Plan a day of fun family-friendly activities Learn the best places to see the park's waterfalls Discover the Lake Superior shoreline Find directions, picnic areas, parking lots and more! With the "Hittin' the Trail" series, you'll never need another hiking guide to any of your favorite destinations. We'll see you on the trail!"

In 1891 Minnesota established its first state park at Lake Itasca, the headwaters of the Mississippi River. In the century that followed, Minnesotans and tourists from other states have enjoyed hiking, picnicking, fishing, camping, canoeing, and skiing at Itasca and Minnesota's 64 other state parks. This helpful guide to the past in the parks will be welcomed by people who regularly visit a favorite Minnesota park, people who have set out to visit every park, and people who are newly discovering the parks' wonders.

The committee was formed to examine and offer recommendations for the long-term funding, use, expansion, and administration of Minnesota's system of state parks, recreation areas, trails, and state forest day-use areas.