Minnesota, known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” is a breathtaking destination year-round, but it truly shines in the fall. With its vibrant foliage, crisp air, and myriad outdoor activities, autumn is the perfect time to explore the state’s natural beauty. From scenic drives to hidden gems, here are the 15+ best places to visit in Minnesota this fall.
1. North Shore Scenic Drive
The North Shore Scenic Drive is a must-visit destination during the fall season. Stretching from Duluth to the Canadian border, this 154-mile route along Lake Superior offers some of the most stunning fall foliage in the state. The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the trees against the backdrop of the deep blue lake create a picturesque scene.
Key Stops Along the Way:
- Gooseberry Falls State Park: Enjoy a hike through this park to see the waterfalls surrounded by fall colors.
- Split Rock Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse is a great spot to capture panoramic views of Lake Superior and the colorful landscape.
- Tettegouche State Park: Known for its rugged cliffs and waterfalls, this park is perfect for a fall hike.
The North Shore is also dotted with charming small towns like Grand Marais, where you can enjoy local art galleries, cozy cafes, and stunning lake views.
2. Itasca State Park
Itasca State Park, home to the headwaters of the Mississippi River, is another top destination for fall travelers. The park’s 32,000 acres are filled with old-growth forests, crystal-clear lakes, and vibrant fall foliage. The highlight of any visit is walking across the Mississippi River at its source, where it’s just a small stream.
Things to Do:
- Wilderness Drive: This 10-mile scenic drive offers numerous viewpoints to soak in the fall colors.
- Hiking Trails: With over 49 miles of hiking trails, Itasca State Park is a hiker’s paradise in the fall.
- Camping: Extend your stay by camping at one of the park’s many campgrounds, surrounded by the beauty of autumn.
Don’t forget to stop by the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center to learn about the park’s history and ecology.
3. Voyageurs National Park
For those seeking a more remote fall experience, Voyageurs National Park is the perfect destination. Located near the Canadian border, this park is a water-based wonderland, with lakes making up more than a third of its area. Fall is an ideal time to explore the park, as the summer crowds have dwindled, leaving you with peaceful waters and vibrant foliage.
Activities to Enjoy:
- Boating and Canoeing: Navigate the park’s interconnected waterways while surrounded by fall colors.
- Houseboating: Spend a few days on a houseboat, exploring the remote beauty of the park.
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for wildlife, including bald eagles, moose, and black bears.
Voyageurs National Park is one of the best places to experience the raw beauty of Minnesota’s wilderness.
4. Minneapolis-St. Paul
The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul offer a unique blend of urban and natural attractions, making them a great destination for a fall getaway. The cities come alive with fall festivals, farmers’ markets, and cultural events.
Highlights:
- Minnehaha Regional Park: Visit this urban oasis to see the stunning Minnehaha Falls surrounded by autumn colors.
- Mississippi Riverfront: Take a
walk along the Mississippi Riverfront in both cities to enjoy the blend of city skyline and fall foliage.
- Como Park Zoo and Conservatory: This family-friendly spot in St. Paul is perfect for a leisurely fall afternoon, with beautiful gardens, a zoo, and a conservatory filled with exotic plants.
The Twin Cities also offer a rich cultural scene with museums, theaters, and dining experiences that are enhanced by the cozy atmosphere of fall.
5. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) should be at the top of your fall travel list. Located in northeastern Minnesota, this vast wilderness area is a paradise for paddlers and hikers. Fall brings cooler temperatures, fewer bugs, and a spectacular display of fall colors.
What to Do:
- Canoeing and Kayaking: The Boundary Waters are famous for their interconnected lakes and waterways, offering endless opportunities for paddling.
- Hiking: The wilderness is also home to numerous hiking trails that provide stunning views of the fall foliage.
- Camping: Spend a few nights under the stars at one of the many remote campsites, surrounded by the beauty of untouched nature.
The BWCAW offers a serene escape into nature, where you can fully immerse yourself in the tranquility of the fall season.
6. Duluth
Duluth, a port city on Lake Superior, is a fantastic destination for fall travelers. The city’s location along the North Shore provides easy access to stunning landscapes, while the city itself offers a variety of activities and attractions.
Top Attractions:
- Enger Tower: Climb this historic tower for panoramic views of Duluth, Lake Superior, and the surrounding fall foliage.
- Lakewalk: Stroll along the Lakewalk, a scenic pathway that runs along the shoreline of Lake Superior, offering breathtaking views.
- Great Lakes Aquarium: Learn about the diverse ecosystems of the Great Lakes region at this family-friendly attraction.
Duluth also hosts several fall festivals, including the popular Duluth Oktoberfest, where you can enjoy local food, music, and craft beer.
7. Gooseberry Falls State Park
Located along the North Shore, Gooseberry Falls State Park is one of Minnesota’s most popular state parks, and it’s easy to see why. The park is home to a series of stunning waterfalls that are even more beautiful in the fall, surrounded by colorful trees.
Things to See and Do:
- Waterfalls: The park’s main attraction is its three waterfalls, which are easily accessible via well-maintained trails.
- Hiking: Explore the park’s network of trails that wind through forests and along the rocky shoreline of Lake Superior.
- Picnicking: Enjoy a picnic near the falls, with the sound of rushing water and the vibrant colors of fall all around you.
Gooseberry Falls State Park is a photographer’s dream in the fall, with countless opportunities to capture the beauty of Minnesota’s autumn.
8. Taylors Falls and Interstate State Park
Located along the St. Croix River, Taylors Falls is a charming small town that offers access to some of the best fall scenery in Minnesota. The town is adjacent to Interstate State Park, which is known for its unique geological formations and scenic river views.
Activities:
- Riverboat Cruises: Take a scenic cruise on the St. Croix River to see the fall colors from a different perspective.
- Hiking: The park offers several trails that take you through forests and along cliffs, providing stunning views of the river and fall foliage.
- Rock Climbing: Interstate State Park is also a popular spot for rock climbing, with numerous routes for climbers of all skill levels.
Taylors Falls and Interstate State Park are perfect for a fall day trip filled with outdoor adventure and natural beauty.
9. Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
Split Rock Lighthouse is one of Minnesota’s most iconic landmarks, and visiting it in the fall is an experience you won’t forget. Perched on a cliff overlooking Lake Superior, the lighthouse is surrounded by trees that turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall.
What to Do:
- Lighthouse Tour: Take a guided tour of the historic lighthouse and learn about its fascinating history.
- Hiking: The park offers several trails that provide stunning views of the lighthouse, Lake Superior, and the surrounding fall foliage.
- Photography: Split Rock Lighthouse is one of the most photographed locations in Minnesota, especially in the fall when the colors are at their peak.
A visit to Split Rock Lighthouse State Park offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.
10. Mille Lacs Lake
Mille Lacs Lake is one of the largest lakes in Minnesota and a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other water activities. In the fall, the area around the lake comes alive with vibrant colors, making it a great place to enjoy the season.
Activities:
- Fishing: Mille Lacs Lake is known for its excellent walleye fishing, and fall is a great time to cast a line.
- Scenic Drives: Take a drive around the lake to enjoy the fall foliage and explore the small towns that dot the shoreline.
- Hiking and Biking: The area around Mille Lacs Lake offers several trails that are perfect for a fall hike or bike ride.
Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or enjoy some outdoor activities, Mille Lacs Lake is a fantastic fall destination.
11. Stillwater
Stillwater, often referred to as the “Birthplace of Minnesota,” is a charming river town located on the banks of the St. Croix River. In the fall, the town’s historic buildings and tree-lined streets are surrounded by vibrant colors, making it a picturesque place to visit.
Things to Do:
- Historic Downtown: Explore Stillwater’s historic downtown, filled with antique shops, boutiques, and cozy cafes.
- Scenic River Cruises: Take a leisurely cruise on the St. Croix River to enjoy the fall colors from the water.
- Teddy Bear Park: If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to visit this adorable park, which is especially beautiful in the fall.
Stillwater also hosts several fall events, including the Stillwater Harvest Fest, where you can enjoy live music, food, and a giant pumpkin weigh-off.
12. Whitewater State Park
Located in southeastern Minnesota, Whitewater State Park is a hidden gem that’s particularly beautiful in the fall. The park is known for its dramatic limestone bluffs, clear blue waters, and vibrant fall colors.
Highlights:
- Hiking: The park offers several scenic hiking trails, including the popular Chimney Rock Trail, which provides stunning views of the fall foliage.
- Fishing: The Whitewater River is known for its excellent trout fishing, and fall is a great time to cast a line.
- Wildlife Watching: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, bald eagles, and wild turkeys, which are more active in the cooler fall months.
Whitewater State Park is a peaceful retreat where you can fully appreciate the beauty of Minnesota’s fall season.
13. Grand Portage State Park
Located on the Canadian border, Grand Portage State Park is home to Minnesota’s highest waterfall, the 120-foot High Falls. In the fall, the surrounding forests burst into color, creating a stunning backdrop for this natural wonder.
Things to Do:
- Waterfall Viewing: The park’s main attraction is the High Falls, which can be viewed from several overlooks along a short, accessible trail.
- Hiking: Explore the park’s other trails to enjoy the fall colors and the peaceful sound of the Pigeon River.
- Cultural Experience: Visit the nearby Grand Portage National Monument to learn about the area’s rich Ojibwe and fur trading history.
A visit to Grand Portage State Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history.
14. Lake Itasca
Lake Itasca, located within Itasca State Park, is the official source of the Mississippi River. Visiting this historic site in the fall is a special experience, as the surrounding forests are ablaze with color.
Things to Do:
- Mississippi Headwaters: Walk across the Mississippi River at its source and explore the surrounding trails.
- Scenic Drives: The park offers several scenic drives that provide excellent views of the fall foliage.
- Birdwatching: Fall is a great time to spot migrating birds, and the park is home to a variety of species.
Lake Itasca is a symbolic and scenic destination that should be on every fall traveler’s list.
15. Pipestone National Monument
Located in southwestern Minnesota, Pipestone National Monument is a unique and sacred site where Native Americans have quarried pipestone for centuries. In the fall, the tallgrass prairie and surrounding trees turn golden, creating a beautiful contrast with the red pipestone cliffs.
What to See:
- Quarry Sites: Visit the historic quarry sites where pipestone is still mined today.
- Winnewissa Falls: Take a short hike to this hidden waterfall, which is especially beautiful when framed by fall colors.
- Cultural Center: Learn about the significance of pipestone to Native American cultures at the park’s visitor center.
Pipestone National Monument offers a deeply spiritual and visually stunning experience.
16. Glendalough State Park
Glendalough State Park, located in west-central Minnesota, is a peaceful retreat that’s perfect for a fall visit. The park is known for its clear lakes, oak savannas, and diverse wildlife, all of which are enhanced by the colors of autumn.