Explore Minneopa State Park
Mankato, Minnesota
Details
Distance
0.5 miles
Route Type
Loop
Description
Added by Lisa Groene
Get great views of the park's two popular waterfalls of Minneopa Creek. Take the new Bison drive for sightings of the reintroduced bison herd and discover the historical Seppmann Mill.
Located just five miles west of Mankato, Minnesota, Minneopa State Park is mostly known for its beautiful Minneopa Falls. The word "Minneopa" is derived from the Dakota language meaning "water falling twice". To access the falls, begin at the state park's visitor center/picnic area. The Upper Falls can be viewed from the picnic area. Take the Waterfall loop trail, a quick half mile loop which encircles Lower Falls; the trail begins with a limestone stairway leading to a scenic gorge below. Enjoy views of Minneopa Creek while reaching the base of the falls.Within the northern sections of the park, you will find open prairie and trails that lead to the Minnesota River. Camp at one of the campsites in the Red Fox Campground; hike the Minnesota River Bluff trail (1.2 miles one way) and take in views of the river valley. Wildlife lovers can drive the Bison Drive and observe the newly reintroduced bison herd within the park. Continue on the Bison drive and visit the historical Seppmann Mill, an old wind-powered stone mill built and operated in the late 1800's.
Minneopa State Park is located off of US Highway 169 and State Highway 68. The park is split between two entrances; one to access the falls, and the second to access the campground/bison drive which is located just a short distance further up Highway 68.
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Reviews
Minneopa State Park is an awesome outdoor getaway close to Minneapolis. Well recommended! The falls are gorgeous and the Bison Drive is super cool!
5.0
Awesome day trip. Head down some steep stairs, and you’re able to hike along the water up close to the falls. Nice picnic areas in the area as well!
5.0
Great colors and nice falls. Very wet, some trails were impassable.
4.0
We visited when the falls were mostly frozen over. The top of the waterfall is a short walk from the parking lot. We walked on the frozen river back to the base of the falls but did not go all the way up to the waterfall for safety purposes. Beautiful little waterfall worth the stop if you're in the area.
4.0
Fun day trip from the Twin Cities. The park has a bison herd now which is pretty cool to check out.
3.0
I first stopped by Seppmann's Mill which I wasn't too impressed with but made for some unique pictures and interesting history, reading up on it on site. The waterfalls were also nice. I visited in late summer and pretty much had the park to myself, very well kept, and worth the visit if you're trying to escape.
4.0
Easy access. I visit this place multiple times per year. When it really rains the falls are thunderous. Worth the entry fee. Much to explore. Easy access by bike, camping very close. Must do if in the Mankato area
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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