Discover The Birthplace Of The Iconic Mississippi River In Minnesota's Oldest State Park

Minnesota is a Midwestern powerhouse. Apart from being one of the few places to view the northern lights in America, it's also home to one of the most bikeable cities in the country. Oh, and the mighty Mississippi River, that legendary body of water that winds 2,350 miles through 10 different states on its way to the Gulf of Mexico? Well, its headwaters are located in one of Minnesota's most storied and significant nature reserves: Itasca State Park.

Itasca was established in 1891, making it Minnesota's oldest state park. Covering over 32,000 acres of pristine wilderness that includes some of the Midwest's most stunning lakes and old-growth forests, Itasca is an iconic destination that is as much a journey through American natural history as it is an outdoor lover's dream.

Much of Itasca's charm lies in its blend of landscapes and the diverse ecosystems that call it home. Park preservation efforts have allowed rare pine forests and other unique flora to thrive there, making it a haven for natural history buffs. It's also a fantastic hiking destination that offers plenty in the way of outdoor fun. For anyone eager to experience the origins of the Mississippi or explore a truly priceless slice of Minnesota's rugged beauty, Itasca State Park is the perfect destination.

Itasca State Park is a fantastic spot for outdoor fun in a truly gorgeous setting. Hiking is one of the main attractions here, with the two-mile Dr. Roberts Trail being among the most accessible routes, taking hikers through a bog and up to a lookout over Lyendecker Lake. To enjoy sweeping views of the Lake Itasca watershed, climb the 100-foot-tall Aiton Heights fire tower via a short 0.5-mile trail. A longer, three-mile loop will take you through the Ozawindib and Deer Park trails that wind through basswood and maple forests. If you're touring the park by car, take the 10-mile Wilderness Drive through red and white pine forests that will lead you to several hiking trail options. In all, there are 45 miles of trails in the park.

Visitors looking to get out on the water can rent a canoe or kayak at the Itasca Sports rental concession. The park also offers a narrated wildlife and history boat tour that takes you out on the waters of Itasca Lake, an excellent opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to photograph the great blue herons, loons, bald eagles, osprey, and deer that call the park home.

The park also includes over 200 campsites if you're looking to spend the night in nature, as well as the Douglas Lodge, a historic hotel and restaurant built in 1905. The lodge's traditional cabin-style furnishings and the restaurant's focus on local ingredients offer guests a window into the past that is distinctly Minnesotan. Picnicking under the pines on the shores of Lake Itasca is another family-friendly way to spend the afternoon, as the park's picnic area features a beach and playground facilities.

The star of the show at Itasca is arguably the headwaters of the great Mississippi River. Before heading to the river's source, though, make a pit stop at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center to learn everything there is to know about the park and the Mississippi's origins. The visitor center is named after the park's founder, who settled the century-long dispute regarding which body of water in the area was truly the river's headwaters: Lake Itasca itself.

The lake and its rocky shallows are a visitor favorite. Nature lovers can wade in the waters where the Mississippi begins and take a photo next to a wooden post landmark officially designating the river's beginning. You can even cross a log bridge that spans the Mississippi, which is only 18 feet wide here. Some visitors opt to cross on the myriad rocks that stick out of the water, but they tend to be slippery, so exercise caution if you choose to do so.

Whether you're drawn to the park's history, geographic significance, or its serene setting, Itasca State Park promises a memorable visit full of rewarding experiences for everyone.