Lesser-Known State Park the Best Place to See Fall Colors in Minnesota
There are many state parks across Minnesota but there is one that is a little lesser-known that has been declared to be the best state park to see fall colors in Minnesota. That is Maplewood State Park in Pelican Rapids, MN.
It's a little bit of a hike but if you have time for a day trip this is totally worth it! Maplewood State Park has tons of trees surrounding the 9,000 acres of the park, according to Only in Your State. These trees (maple, oak, and basswood) turn beautiful shades of orange, red, and yellow in the fall.
Since it is a decent drive away from us you want plenty to do once you get there, and Maplewood State Park has just that. There are 25 miles of hiking trails, if you have horses there are 20 miles of horse trails, picnic tables, and 8 lakes. See, plenty to do!
You could start your day with a hike, stop at one of the picnic tables to have a picnic lunch, then hit the water on a canoe or kayak! I think being on the water would be the best place to take in all of the colors but that's just my opinion. The hiking trails also lead you to some high places where you can look over all of the trees, which is also beautiful.