Recreational Activities

Photography by John Finnegan, Jr., SPH Dean

Minnesota is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts.  The state is full of picturesque parks and stunning lakes--playgrounds for those who enjoy recreational activities outside. 

Minnesota hosts:

• Voyageurs National Park, the only water-based national park in the U.S
• Two national forests (Superior and Chippewa)
• 72 state parks
• 58 state forests

All of the open space provides unparalleled natural beauty and excellent opportunity for:

Water Recreation - More than 12,000 lakes and hundreds of miles of rivers and streams are a paradise for boaters, water skiers, wind surfers, paddlers, swimmers, and whitewater rafters.

Biking - If you prefer two wheels to four, Minnesota is the place to tread.  The state has developed over 250 miles of bike trail along former railroad beds with more miles of paved rail-to-rail bikeways than any other state.

Skiing & Snowboarding - Skiers, boarders and tubers have plenty of places to play.  There are dozens of ski areas and slopes in the state--prime places to enhance your physical conditioning and improve your carving skills.

Fishing - Minnesota has some of the finest fishing in nation. Anglers here reel in walleye, bass, northern pike and more.

Golfing - If you are a golfer or want to learn, Minnesota may the perfect place to improve your game.  The state boasts more than 450 golf courses. The natural beauty and diversity of terrain here has provided perfect land for many of the top designers to build spectacular golf courses throughout the entire state.

Hiking - In Minnesota, you're never far from a great place to hike or backpack. There are hundreds of miles of trails surrounded by pristine wilderness and diverse wildlife. 

Camping - Hike in the woods, spot wildlife, roast marshmallows over an open fire and stay up late and see shooting stars. 

Rock Climbing - Grab your chalk and get ready to belay!  The state boasts a vibrant climbing scene. It has a varied rock and ice climbing environment--providing a smorgasbord of vertical endeavors.