Wildflower Trail At Carley State Park In Minnesota Is Unexpectedly Magical

Have you ever heard of Carley State Park? If you’re like most Minnesotans, you probably haven’t. This little-known state park is tucked away in the state’s southeastern corner, about halfway between Rochester and Winona. But what the park lacks in fame, it makes up for in beauty. there’s a gorgeous trail there where you’ll find a combination of river crossings and wildflowers that is, simply put, magical. Read on below to learn more about this unique trail:

Carley State Park is a little-known state park in Plainview, Minnesota, in the state’s southeastern corner. It’s about 100 miles southeast of Minneapolis or 25 miles outside of both Rochester and Winona.

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The park’s small size - it covers around 200 acres - contributes to its status as a less-visited Minnesota State Park. But there is a lot to see here, including some spectacular hiking trails. Some offer steep climbs to views high above the ground…

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…but the one we want to introduce today is a bit flatter. The Wildflower Trail is a 1.9-mile loop trail that follows along the Whitewater River.

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This river is a tributary of the Mississippi and is a popular place for trout fishing. It’s also a beautiful place to hike.

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As you walk along the trail, you’ll pass beneath the branches of white pines and other trees, which play host to a wide variety of songbirds.

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Some areas have concrete stepping stones that cross the river. These lovely river crossings add a magical element to the hike, like something from a storybook. Look closely at the water as you cross, and you might spot a trout swimming by!

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Being the Wildflower Trail, this hike is also famous for its namesake. Bluebells bloom along the path each spring. They are exceptionally prominent in May when the flowers often carpet the ground.

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This beautiful hike is a lovely way to spend some time in a lesser-known Minnesota park. Enjoy the quiet river and take in the beauty of Minnesota wildflowers along this unexpectedly magical hike!

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Have you hiked in Carley State Park? Let us know in the comments! Also, check out our past list of lesser-known state parks in Minnesota that you’ll love.