It’s a personal challenge which I’m proud to have accomplished. In 2017 I set a goal to hike in all the hikable Minnesota State Parks. I finished visiting the parks in June 2021.
There are 67 of the 76 total Minnesota State Park and Recreation Areas which are able to be hiked. Doing this has given me new perspectives on the state, challenged me physically and mentally and given me inspiration to try new trails as often as I can. Minnesota is home to a rich variety of spaces which have been set aside because of their unique historic, geographic or natural habitats.
As I completed the hikes, I collected park patches and trail maps as a reminder of all the wonderful parks I’ve visited. I hope this list provides you some inspiration. Check out the links to see more about what makes each park unique and worth a visit.
Want to take on the adventure? Someone created this map, which I used to plan several road trips, allowing me to hike a series of parks in one trip.
Minnesota Parks Fun Fact: Nearly every park is within an hour or less drive from another park.
this map shows how to string the parks together into an epic road trip.
Copyright Ruth Wikoff-Jones, ruthsbluemarble.com | No Use Permitted Without Prior Permission