5 must visit state parks in Minnesota

We have been calling Minnesota our home for past 5 years cumulatively. Minnesota has been me realize the seasons of nature are not to be taken for granted. I have learned so much traversing this land of 10,000 lakes (Though, I think the real number is around 14,444).

Minnesota has more than 60 state parks. Although I have not been fortunate to visit all of them, here is my list of some of the favorites in this area. Let me know in comments if you have your favorites that I haven't mentioned or if you agree with some of mine.

The order of these state parks is ranked on my likelihood of recommending them to anyone who loves hiking.

Jay Cooke State Park

This park is special to me as it is one of the parks that I enjoyed in winter time! It was -17C and still I was adamant to hike that day. We drove for 3 hours and reached this park and did half of the Carlton and Thomas Trail loop. The trail winds through the Saint Louis river which was partially frozen for most of the winter. This trail will give you ample of opportunities for photo sessions.

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Banning State Park

This state park is so underrated and overlooked as folks drive towards Duluth for their weekend fun. I am a fan of this park as the trail winds the Kettle river. The Quarry loop is my personal favorite. There is also a water fall at the end if you continue to the Wolf Creeks fall trail. I have been here early summer as well as in cold winter. I still cant decide which one I liked more. If you are driving here, do not miss the Apple fritter at Rush City bakery to get some calorie redemption.

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Afton State park

This is a well known park close to the Woodbury area along the St Croix river. Both the north and the south loop of this park are fantastic. I have visited this park in all seasons. I loved it the most in fall and at the advent of winter. It has good ups and downs unlike other parks which have pretty single terrain. Worth a visit if you are in the area.

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Whitewater state park

We enjoyed whitewater state park more than we had expected. It was a breath of fresh air in pandemic times. We did 3.3 mile Coyota point trail to Dakota trail. The moment I see some elevation in Minnesota, my feel like I have achieved something. This trail gave me some satisfaction of elevation in Minnesota. Also the park is closer to Rochester so this could be a good day trip from the Twin Cities.

Tettogouche State park

This has been to go park when I have friends and family visiting us. Its the perfect spot to showcase the mighty Superior in all its glory. Plus its a great day trip from Twin cities. The Shovel point and Black beach are my favorite. I have been here 4 times now and every time I love it. For a classic lunch, do try Betty's Pies.