Hiking Parks Near Minneapolis

Discover 8 parks for hiking within driving distance of Minneapolis

Fort Snelling State Park

St. Paul, Minnesota
9 miles away

"Minneapolis residents often visit for easy access to hiking, birding, and paddling without leaving the metro. It is one of the closest state parks for a half-day outdoor trip."

A riverfront state park at the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers, known for history, wildlife, and urban recreation.

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Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area

Bloomington, Minnesota
11 miles away

"Minneapolis visitors can reach the recreation area quickly for a close-to-home escape into river-bottom forests and wildlife habitat. It is a convenient option for birding, paddling, and a short nature outing."

A scenic river-valley recreation area with wetlands, forests, paddling, and wildlife viewing near the Twin Cities.

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Afton State Park

Hastings, Minnesota
28 miles away

"Minneapolis visitors come for a quick escape to bluff-country scenery and quieter trails. It is an easy day trip for hiking, birding, and winter recreation."

A scenic St. Croix River bluff park known for prairie hills, woodlands, and year-round outdoor recreation.

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William O'Brien State Park

Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota
35 miles away

"Minneapolis residents visit for camping, canoeing, and a break from the city in a river setting. The park is close enough for spontaneous day trips and overnight stays."

A scenic St. Croix River park known for camping, paddling, wildlife, and bluff-top views.

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Lake Maria State Park

Monticello, Minnesota
43 miles away

"Minneapolis visitors come for a nearby escape into forests and wetlands. The park is popular with city residents who want a less crowded state park experience."

A quiet central Minnesota park known for forests, wetlands, wildflowers, and wildlife.

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Interstate State Park

Taylor Falls, Minnesota
45 miles away

"Visitors from Minneapolis often come for a quick scenic escape, geology, and a day on the St. Croix River. The park is close enough for an easy day trip."

A scenic river park known for glacial potholes, basalt cliffs, and St. Croix River views.

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Wild River State Park

Center City, Minnesota
48 miles away

"Minneapolis visitors often come for a quick nature escape with paddling, camping, and quiet river scenery. It is a popular day-trip destination from the metro area."

A scenic St. Croix River park known for paddling, hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

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Kinnickinnic State Park

River Falls, Wisconsin
54 miles away

"Minneapolis visitors can reach the park within a reasonable drive for a nature-focused day trip. Its quiet river valley and open spaces provide a welcome break from the metro area."

A scenic river-valley park known for trout fishing, bluff views, and peaceful hiking.

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