Lauren Bixby
As we settle into Daylight Savings Time, Minnesotans welcome sunny days and thawing temperatures. March is our sign of spring: sunsets after 7:00, four consecutive days of 40-degree weather, and of course, the first official day of spring on March 20.
Our spring fever is contagious – soon, conversation begins revolving around spending time outdoors. In the sphere of Minnesota’s outdoor opportunities includes our vast variety of 66 state parks. Here are five of Minnesota’s highlighted state parks to enjoy this spring:
Jay Cooke State Park - photo credit Lauren Bixby
If you’re looking for a day trip outside of the Twin Cities, venture up to Jay Cooke State Park. It’s situated 50 miles before Duluth – a two-hour drive perfect for a full Saturday of hiking. After crossing its signature suspension bridge, explore the rushing St. Louis River and fresh hardwood forest at Jay Cooke State Park.
Itasca is Minnesota’s first state park as well as the home of the Mississippi River headwaters – truly Minnesota’s outdoor pride and joy. Itasca State Park has something to offer for everyone: extensive bike trails, perfect lakeside picnic spots, and historical landmarks. This spring, travel to Itasca State Park to enjoy a weekend of ideal biking weather before stopping by the headwaters to wade through the river.
Whitewater State Park: a peaceful, restorative escape in the bluffs. Nestled in southeastern Minnesota, this park features vibrant wildflowers, expansive green overlooks, and a winding river. Visit Whitewater State Park this spring to capture the season in its fresh vibrancy, full of budding trees and blooming wildflowers.
Bear Head State Park - photo credit Lauren Bixby
If you’re looking for a taste of the secluded beauty of the Boundary Waters, head up to Bear Head Lake State Park for the weekend. Quiet and preserved, visit Bear Head to explore its pristine lakes by canoe, fish for walleye, or swim at the beach. A personal favorite: an evening kayaking excursion to watch the sun set over the lake and listen to the echoing loon calls.
Cascade River State Park - photo credit Lauren Bixby
Would it be a list of Minnesota outdoor hot spots without including the North Shore? Cascade River State Park is located between Lutsen and Grand Marais along Lake Superior. Its impressive waterfalls rush within a gorge and open into Lake Superior. The spring season is an optimal time to explore Cascade River State Park because its rushing waters are exceptionally powerful and breathtaking.
Minnesota has a state park for everyone, whether it’s in the forest, surrounded by bluffs, or on one of Minnesota’s 10,000 lakes. As spring welcomes us back outside, take time to explore all of the outdoor adventures that Minnesota has to offer!
Lauren Bixby is a volunteer with the Sierra Club North Star Chapter and student at the University of St. Thomas.