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Minnesota

Looking for the best backpacking in Minnesota? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Minnesota. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Backpacking Spots in and near Minnesota

  • Taylors Falls, Minnesota

    River Trail Loop

    4.0
    4.32 mi / 285 ft gain
    Wild River State Park, located about 55 miles northeast of Minneapolis, is a fantastic getaway and caters to a wide-variety of visitors. If you have an afternoon and are looking for an easy hike through a variety of natural environments, take The River Trail north, then follow the Old Lodging Tra...
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  • Finland, Minnesota

    Hike to the Superior Hiking Trail's Section 13

    4.0
    2 mi / 450 ft gain
    Getting there:From Duluth, follow Highway 61 until you reach mile marker 65 -- shortly after this you will turn left on Lake County Road 6. Continue for just over 2 miles and the trailhead parking lot will be on your right. There is a sign with mileage to nearby backpacking campsites if you want ...
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  • Silver Bay, Minnesota

    Camp at George H. Manitou Crosby State Park

    5.0
    George H. Crosby Manitou State Park is a lesser known park along Minnesota's North Shore. There are only backcountry sites, and it's not conveniently along the scenic road, so you really have to plan on going here. This makes it quiet, peaceful, and absolutely perfect for someone looking for a li...
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  • Grand Marais, Minnesota

    Cliff Jump at Beth Lake in the BWCA

    Beth Lake is part of the "Lady Chain" of lakes in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. It's secluded, serene and worth the trip, especially if you're up for an afternoon of cliff jumping.You can reach Beth Lake in half of a day, assuming you set out in the morning and are efficient with your time. But...
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  • Grand Marais, Minnesota

    Paddle the Boundary Waters' Seagull to Saganaga Loop

    29 mi
    First, things first - plan your trip well! There are many details that need to go into planning even a short trip into the Boundary Waters. Various websites and companies exist to help you plan and check off all of the boxes prior to your departure date. The bwca.com website is one I found to be ...
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  • Ely, Minnesota

    Camp on BWCA's Lake 2

    A trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area requires some planning ahead. First, you'll need acquire a permit/reservation via recreation.gov . Specify how many people are in your group, the number of watercraft you plan to use and how many days you'll be in the BWCA. You'll also need to select a gro...
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  • Tower, Minnesota

    Canoe to Loon Lake from Entry #14

    The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is located in the northern portion of the Superior National Forest in northeastern Minnesota. What once used to be covered by glaciers is now home to approximately 1.1 million acres of land with 1,200 miles of canoe routes. Permits are required for access...
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