State parks and waterfalls

Visiting the state parks and hiking around is an absolute must, especially if you enjoy nature. Bring your camera! Gooseberry Falls State Park is the most visited state park in Minnesota. It has five waterfalls and a number of trails along with an interpretive center and gift shop. It is also handicapped accessible. Split Rock Lighthouse is also something to put on the top of your list. I believe the admission charge is around $6 but well worth the money. The lighthouse sits atop a 130 foot cliff. You can see exhibits, watch a film about the history and building of the lighthouse, and take a tour. Go to the top of the lighthouse and see how it works! Then take the trail down to the shore (many steps) and take pictures. There are many waterfalls that cross underneath Hwy. 61, with wayside parking. Stop the car and take a look! One of the neatest that crosses under the road is in Temperance River State Park, with potholes, cauldrons, cascades, and sheer rocky cliffs. Also check out the Cross River from both sides of the bridge on the Hwy. You can park and walk down the steps to get a closer look. In some of the parks the trails would be long and difficult for older people or very young children and potentially dangerous, so pick and choose carefully where to go. Gooseberry Falls State Park and the parks where the Falls are close to the road or parking lot are the best bet. Grand Portage State Park has a somewhat long walk to get to the high falls, but it is handicapped accessible and easy.
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