Road Trip: Brainerd to South Saint Paul, MN
Looking for a scenic road trip in Minnesota that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and history? A journey from Brainerd to South Saint Paul is just the ticket!
Did you know that Minnesota has 72 state parks covering 22,000 acres of land, and has the largest freshwater shoreline in the United States?
The halfway point of this trip is Princeton, a small town located around 60 miles from Minneapolis. While here, make sure to enjoy the local food and hospitality offered by various small restaurants nearby.
The trip from Brainerd to South Saint Paul lasts approximately 2.5 hours (depending on traffic and weather), covering over 130 miles. Without further ado, let's get started with the top five places to visit on this incredible road trip.
- Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area - This park in Ironton offers visitors the opportunity to experience Minnesota's mining past, with an extensive 26-mile network of trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing, as well as five different lakes for boating and fishing. Additionally, you can spend a night under the stars at one of the many campsites available.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit the world-famous Minnesota Iron Range, which was a major player in the global steel industry for over a century.
- Mille Lacs Kathio State Park - A visit here will allow you to enjoy one of Minnesota's most unusual natural features – the mysterious Knife Lake, thought to be a sacred site for the Dakota people. You can gain a deeper insight into the area's rich history through one of the many hikes and interpretive exhibits provided by the park.
Don't forget to pack your fishing rod, as the area is home to a variety of species, including muskellunge, smallmouth bass, and northern pike.
Franconia Sculpture Park - You don't have to be an art lover to appreciate this park, which offers a staggering collection of over 120 massive sculptures created by artists from around the world. The park also features a nature trail, interactive exhibits, and a picnic area with grills. An alternative and exciting way to experience art, Franconia Sculpture Park should be on any art lover's itinerary.
Minnesota History Center - Want to dive into the history of Minnesota? The Minnesota History Center is the perfect place to satisfy your curiosity, with exhibits that cover more than 10,000 years of history. The center also offers various programs, events, and interactive opportunities to engage visitors of all ages.
Don't forget to visit the building itself, designed by the world-renowned architect Michael Graves.
- Fort Snelling State Park - Located near the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers, this park is home to one of Minnesota's most important cultural and historical sites. Established in response to the war of 1812, the fort played a critical part in Minnesota's early history, including the infamous Dakota War of 1862. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and bird-watching, as well as an opportunity to tour the historic fort.
A short drive from the park is Minnehaha Falls, named for the Dakota translation "waterfall" and spilling more than 50 feet into a stunning ravine.
In conclusion, a journey from Brainerd to South Saint Paul offers a unique blend of nature and history, displaying Minnesota's beauty. This road trip is perfect for anyone looking to experience the state's diverse culture and geography. So, pack your bags, fill-up your gas tank, and embark on an epic adventure!