Spring is in the air! Yeah, we are expecting snow, BUT it's spring and that means hiking season! The flowers will start to bloom, the air gets warmer, and Minnesota will be gorgeous. I found some of the best places to hike in our area. What's missing from the list? 

Here in Rochester, we're lucky to have more than 85 miles of walking trails throughout the city. But if you venture out of town, where's the best place to go for a stroll? I love Chester Woods, but let's go even further. Would you agree that these are the best places to go hiking in southeastern Minnesota?

The list is in no particular order!

  • Frontenac State Park

    "The adventurous will enjoy the Bluff Side Trail as it traverses the steep bluff with a series of wooden stairs and switchbacks. The trail starts from either the picnic area or campground, descends to near water level, and then climbs back up to the bluff top at 430 feet above Lake Pepin," according to the Minnesota DNR website.

    It's also said to be one of the best spots in the country to view birds migrating this time of year. My cousin got married here, and it made for a gorgeous picture perfect wedding.

    Minnesota DNR
    Minnesota DNR
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  • Afton State Park

    Afton State park is located in Hastings and overlooks the St. Croix River.

    "The trails are perfect for hikers, horseback riders and cross-country skiers. The park offers visitors a swimming beach, backpack campsites and a visitor center with interpretive displays," the Minnesota DNR website says.

    Minnesota DNR
    Minnesota DNR
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  • Barn Bluff

    Speaking of a challenge, if you're into hiking trails then you've got to try Barn Bluff. With several different trails to choose from they promise "the hike is worth the effort needed to reach the top of the 340-foot bluff. The cliff showcases a spectacular view of the Mississippi River on one side and Red Wing on the other." (City of Red Wing)

    City of Red Wing
    City of Red Wing
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  • Whitewater State Park

    Whitewater was one of my favorite field trip destinations as a kid. With 2,700 acres of land for camping, fishing, swimming, and hiking just miles down the road in Altura, it's a great day trip!

    Minnesota DNR
    Minnesota DNR
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  • Carley State Park

    Just down the road from Plainview, Carley State Park is a place to take in a peaceful area and enjoy nature.

    According to the Minnesota DNR, you can "enjoy scenic views of the North Branch of the Whitewater River as it flows through the forested valley. Places to enjoy a picnic, camp or try a bit of fishing abound."

     

    Minnesota DNR
    Minnesota DNR
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