Six Aggressive Ways to Explore Minnesota – 10,000 Lake Lands

Minnesota was a beacon for those who loved living on the water. The state's name comes from the Native American Dakota word for “sky-colored water.” It is commonly known as “10,000 lake land”, but in reality there are a total of 11,842 lakes, making it ideal for water sports. In fact, the nation is said to be the birthplace of water skiing. So it is not surprising that the nation is also considered the birthplace of waterskiing. On land, Minnesota has more cycling trails than other US states, and the area is home to wildlife-filled national parks and its green spaces in Minneapolis and St. Paul. There are many opportunities to go to. . From canoes and fat bikes to stargazing and snowmobiles, these are the ultimate ways to discover Minnesota's vast wilderness.

1. I'll do a hike

This is why the central locations in Minnesota's three ecosystems (Northwood, Prairie and Eastern Forest) offer the best hikes in the Midwest. One of the most robust and dramatic long distance routes is the 64-mile border route trail, which snakes along the Canadian border. The path also connects to the Kekekavik Trail and the excellent hiking trail. Another great place for the hike is Glacier Lake State Park, a 2.5-hour drive from Minneapolis, with tracks that weaving prairieland and glacial hills.

2. Grab the paddle

A 650-mile stretch of the Mississippi River runs through Minnesota, perfect for canoeing and kayaking. Take a guided tour with local operators such as paddle hoppers, or rent a kayak from Paddle Share on the Mississippi River and cruise at your own pace. The wilderness in the boundary waters canoe area north of Minneapolis stretches over more than a million acres, with thousands of glacial lakes and streams surrounded by lush woodlands. You can hire canoes and choose from a scenic 1,200-mile route.

3. Please ride a bike

With over 4,000 miles of paved trails and fantastic backcountry terrain, cyclists are often served in Minnesota. Many of the trails remain open all year round and are suitable for fat bikes (mountain bikes with ultra-width tires). As a result, the state has one of the nation's largest networks of fat bike trails. Some of the best routes can be found in the Kuyuna Country State Recreation Area. There, you can spend the night in a cozy yurt after a day of exploration. The smooth Jichgami State Trail, which weaves 86 miles along Lake Superior's North Shore, is perfect for a spectacular backdrop.

4. I stare at the stars

Do you know your Andromeda from your Aquila? Minnesota is the ideal place for you to earn a new appreciation in the night sky, and you don't have to venture far from the star gaze from the twin cities of the state. Afton State Park, just a 30-minute drive from the state's capital, St. Paul, is a great location for Stargazes, close to the city, and the campsite offers an overnight stay. The further north boundary is the wilderness of the canoe area, Minnesota's first dark sky sanctuary, a wonderful place to admire the Milky Way. The aurora also offers regular glimpses from this location.

5. Hire a houseboat

For memorable accommodation options, check out one of the houseboat rental companies on many coasts of the state's largest lake. At Voyageurs National Park, choose from small wallet-friendly boats to large houseboats for a week-long exploration of the area. It is equipped with a small kitchen, dining area, bathroom, bedroom and outdoor deck. Many also come with cool extras such as water slides and kayaks. Houseboats pilot surprisingly easily, but rental agents give you a short lesson before you lose you on the lake.

6. Ride a snowmobile

Minnesota has almost 22,000 miles of connected snowmobile trails, making it a great place for winter fun. It's difficult to beat the Brainerd Lakes area, just over two hours' drive north of Minneapolis. This is abundantly lined with snowmobile rentals and hundreds of miles of marked trails. Further north, you'll be twisting a network of excellent national forest trucks through snowy forests and beautiful lodges of the past (open all year round). And if Minnesota meets the Canadian border, the routes in the Nautical National Park are very well maintained, which is great for night snowmobile sessions.