Minnesota State Park Guide

🌳 Family Fun at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park (Minnesota)

A Magical Nature Escape Just an Hour from the Twin Cities!

📍 Location: Nerstrand, MN
🚗 Distance from Minneapolis: About 1 hour
👟 Best For: Families with young kids, nature lovers, picnic fans, and beginner hikers

🥾 What to Do:

1. Hidden Falls Trail (0.5 mi one-way)
✔️ Stroller-friendly gravel path (mostly flat)
✔️ Ends at a charming waterfall—great photo spot!
✔️ Kids love splashing in the creek (bring water shoes!)

2. Woodland Wildflower Trail
🌼 Best in spring and early summer for wildflower spotting
🦋 Watch for butterflies, mushrooms, and fairy-ring fungi

3. Scavenger Hunt Challenge (DIY)
Print or bring your own! Look for:

• A tree taller than your house

• A squirrel carrying food

• A leaf bigger than your hand

• A mossy rock

• A mushroom fairy village

🧺 Pack These:

• Water bottles & snacks

• Sunscreen + bug spray

• Change of socks/shoes (creek fun = soggy feet)

• Binoculars for bird spotting

• A small towel for waterfall splashes

🏕️ Bonus Tips:

• Picnic tables & grills near parking—great for lunch breaks

• Bathrooms available near the trailhead

• Dogs allowed on leash! 🐶

• Spring + Fall are STUNNING here—plan a return trip!