Itasca State Park

We finally had some time away from our full time jobs to take another trip in the Nomad! This time we headed Northwest with my parents to a park that we've visited before, but have never stayed at. One that holds a lot of fame, history and beauty! Itasca State Park—the oldest and biggest state park in MN. It was amazing and definitely top 3 trips of the season. We did a lot of the "typical" things to do there and then some. Here's a look at what we spent some of our time doing! It would be a great location to spend some time in the summer, fall or spring (and even winter if you're hearty enough!) Brower trail-this is an awesome hike about 5 miles round trip. Stunning lake and forest views and a wooded dirt path. Moderate hike—kid friendly 5 and up. There are dozens of short, moderate hikes within the park. Click HERE for more on the trails!

Visitor center-full of interesting displays, videos and artifacts to tell about the history of the park. This could easily take over an hour to go through and read about all the history! Click HERE for more on the visitor center! Headwaters-this is where the Mississippi starts and you can cross it with just a few steps with additional hiking trails branching off from it. Click HERE for more about the Headwaters! White pine-The tallest White Pine in MN recorded at 112 feet and over 300 years old. Click HERE for more about the tallest trees in MN (Check 5) Fire Tower-An old fire tower in the park (about a half mile hike in) 15 stories of stairs (100 feet up) to the top to overlook the park and fall foliage. Worth the leg burn! Click HERE for more about the Fire Tower! Good Life Cafe-Right on Main Street in Park Rapids, delicious menu and family friendly atmosphere Click HERE to check out their menu! Main Street Park Rapids (25 minutes out from Itasca)-shopping, antiques, dining and entertainment.