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Minnesota Now with Nina Moini
Cathy Wurzer and Ellen Finn

Lesser-known spots to explore this summer in Minnesota

High falls are seen
High Falls at Grand Portage State Park near Grand Portage, Minn.
Derek Montgomery for MPR News | 2022

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By this time, most students in Minnesota are done with school for the year — that means summer vacation! Families have the chance to take advantage of the warm weather on adventures all over the state.

Though the North Shore is a favorite, there are so many more beautiful places in Minnesota to relax and explore.

Stephanie Pearson knows — she grew up around northern Minnesota and has spent her career writing about outdoor adventure around the world for Outside Magazine and National Geographic.

But she just can’t stop coming back to Minnesota to hike, swim and bike. She joined MPR News Host Cathy Wurzer with some tips on getting outside this summer, especially to those lesser-known gems.

Here’s where she says you need to go next:

  • Canoeing or kayaking at the St. Louis River Estuary National Water Trail Duluth

  • Biking at Duluth Traverse, Tioga Recreation Center in Grand Rapids, Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, Bluff Traverse Trail in Winona and Mesabi Trail to Ely

  • Hiking Grand Portage State Park or with the bison at Blue Mound State Park

Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.

Subscribe to the Minnesota Now podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

We attempt to make transcripts for Minnesota Now available the next business day after a broadcast. When ready they will appear here.