10,000 REASONS TO VISIT MINNESOTA
When you look at a map of Minnesota you'll understand why this scenic state in the midst of America's magnificent Great Lakes region is known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes”. And here are just a few of the reasons to put it at the top of your holiday Wish List.
LAKE SUPERIOR – THE WORLD'S LARGEST FRESHWATER LAKE
One stunning waterfall after another will await you in the state parks along the rocky, forested north shore of Lake Superior, the world's largest freshwater lake. The 154-mile North Shore All-American Scenic Drive from Duluth to the Canadian border also passes through charming small towns where you can eat, shop and enjoy fantastic views over the water.
VOYAGEURS NATIONAL PARK – HOUSEBOATS AND DARK SKIES
Rent a luxurious houseboat and spend a day or more exploring Voyageurs National Park's four large and 26 smaller lakes. And then, at night, discover that this International Dark Sky Park is a fabulous place to stargaze and, when conditions are right, even see the Northern Lights. Other park activities include boat tours with park rangers, hiking on more than 27 miles of scenic trails and fishing for such beauties as walleye and northern pike.
THE MIGHTY MISSISSIPPI RIVER – VISIT ITS HEADWATERS AND 'TWIN CITIES'
The second-longest river in the USA and the fourth longest in the world, the Mississippi starts at Lake Itasca in northwest Minnesota and flows through nine other states on its way to the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy wading across its headwaters at Itasca State Park, Minnesota's oldest state park, and while there hike, bike, camp, stay in a historic lodge or rent a cabin. Then explore the various attractions throughout the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, a 72-milelong river park that passes through attractionrich Minneapolis (“City of Lakes”) and its nearby 'Twin City', St Paul, the state capital of Minnesota.