Itasca State Park is jewel of Minnesota

Minnesota’s oldest state park is 132 years old.

Itasca State Park was established on April 20, 1891 to preserve the old growth pine trees that were in danger of being logged.

More than half a million people visit Itasca State Park every year to see the giant pines and wade across the headwaters of the Mississippi River State Water Trail.

Park Rapids is the undisputed Gateway to Itasca State Park and the south entrance is a 22-mile drive from Park Rapids north on Hwy. 71. The east entrance is only a couple miles farther north of the south entrance, and then another mile or so west on Hwy. 200 – you’ll find it easily at the junction of Hwy. 71 and Hwy. 200.

On the drive north from Park Rapids on Hwy. 71 visitors can find several quaint shops and recreation areas to stop at along the way. Also, some fabulous restaurants are

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Itasca

From Page 23 located just off of Hwy. 71 that are sure to satisfy any appetite.

Itasca State Park encompasses Lake Itasca, the official source of the Mississippi River, and a scenic area of northern Minnesota that has remained relatively unchanged from its natural state.

Today, the park totals more than 32,000 acres and includes more than 100 lakes. Stand under towering pines at Preacher’s Grove. Visit the Itasca Indian Cemetery or Wegmann’s Cabin, landmarks of centuries gone by. Camp under the stars, or stay the night at the historic Douglas Lodge or cabins. Explore Wilderness Drive past the 2,000-acre Wilderness Sanctuary, one of Minnesota’s seven National Natural Landmarks.

But the main attraction will continue to be walking across the headwaters of the Mississippi River on stones at the mouth of Lake Itasca. But there are plenty of other activities to do at the park. Other outdoor activities include