The Best Fall Hikes in Minnesota- GGH Edition

There is something about hiking in Minnesota in the fall that just feels different.

Maybe it's the crunch of leaves underneath your boots. Maybe it's the way the trees slowly trade their summer green for bright shades of yellow, orange and red. Or maybe it's that first deep breath when you realize the air has changed.

Summer is officially on its way out, and suddenly the air smells cool, crisp, earthy and just a little bit like fall. I remember hiking in North Carolina and my friend was driving us to the trailhead and I had my window all the way down and I couldn't get enough of that fall air!

For me, fall hiking isn't just about seeing the leaves. It's about feeling the season. Minnesota has no shortage of incredible places to experience it, from North Shore cliffs and lakes to big hardwood forests and Mississippi River bluffs. So if you're looking for somewhere to get your fall hiking fix, here are a few trails I'd put on your list.

Bean & Bear Lakes

I hiked Bean & Bear last fall, and I absolutely loved it. Located along the Superior Hiking Trail near Silver Bay, the roughly 6.5-mile loop takes you through the forest before climbing toward some seriously incredible views of Bean and Bear Lakes.

The colorful hardwoods surrounded the blue lakes, and when I reached the peak, it was so peaceful. I could hear people talking down by the lake below, and somehow, we ended up having a conversation with them from the top. It was one of those unexpected little moments that makes a hike memorable, not just because of the view, but because of the people you meet along the way.

Bean & Bear captures so much of what I love about Minnesota hiking: forest, elevation, water, rocks and big views, all in one hike. I did hike past peak fall colors but it was still beautiful and it was a warm fall day!

It's one of those trails I'll happily hike again.

Oberg Mountain

If you want a North Shore fall hike with a big payoff, Oberg Mountain is on my list! I haven't hiked this one yet, but it's one I'm hoping to check off this fall. The loop winds through the forest one with views of Lake Superior, Oberg Lake and the surrounding landscape.

And based on the photos I've seen, fall looks like it could be pretty spectacular here. The hills turn into a patchwork of red, orange and gold, with the changing forest stretching out in every direction.

I'm especially excited about the idea of getting above the trees and looking out over fall instead of just hiking through it. So, Oberg Mountain, you're officially on my list. Now I just need to pick a weekend and go!

Gooseberry Falls

Fall hiking doesn't have to mean choosing between colorful trees and water. At Gooseberry Falls, you get both. Follow the trails around the Gooseberry River and you'll find waterfalls, rocky sections, forest and plenty of fall color.

And there's something about hearing a waterfall while leaves are crunching under your feet that just feels like fall. Plus, the North Shore in autumn? Come on. It's hard to beat.

Nerstrand Big Woods

Sometimes you don't need a huge overlook. Sometimes you just want to walk through the woods. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park is perfect for that. Plus it's part of the MN Hiking Club.

The forest creates that classic Minnesota fall feeling, the canopy overhead, leaves covering the trail and that earthy smell that seems to get stronger with every step. And then there's Hidden Falls. The waterfall gives you a destination within the hike, but honestly, the forest itself is the star of the show. This is the kind of hike I'd choose when I want to slow down.

Afton State Park

Afton is one of my favorite options when I want a beautiful fall hike without making the drive all the way to the North Shore. The landscape here is different from Bean & Bear or Gooseberry Falls. Instead of towering North Shore cliffs, you'll find a mix of wooded valleys, prairie, rolling hills and views toward the St. Croix River.

Afton gives you all of that.

Maplewood State Park

If you're looking for fall color, Maplewood State Park deserves a spot on your list. The park has rolling hills, lakes and miles of trails winding through forests filled with maple, oak, basswood and other trees that put on quite the autumn show.
This is the kind of place where you could spend an entire day wandering around and still feel like you haven't seen enough.

And honestly? That's how fall hiking should be.

Interstate State Park

There's something pretty magical about hiking along the St. Croix River when the leaves are changing. Interstate State Park gives you colorful forests, rocky terrain and views into the river gorge. Instead of looking at fall from one perspective, you're constantly getting different layer, trees, cliffs, water and sky.

And if hiking isn't your only outdoor love, bring your kayak or canoe! Interstate State Park is also a beautiful place to get out on the St. Croix and see the fall colors from the water. There's something pretty special about paddling through the gorge with colorful trees surrounding you.

It's a great reminder that some of the best fall adventures aren't necessarily the longest. Sometimes a shorter hike with a really good view is exactly what you need. And sometimes you just need to grab a paddle and see fall from a completely different perspective.

But First… Get Your Fall Hike Uniform Ready

Let's be honest. You can't just go fall hiking. There is a process.

First, grab your favorite fall drink, maybe a pumpkin spice latte or Hot Apple Blast. Then put on your favorite flannel because it also flannel season.

Is it technically necessary? No. Does it make the hike more festive? Absolutely. And if your flannel matches the leaves? Chef's kiss.😂

But here's the actually-important part: layers!

Fall weather in Minnesota can be all over the place. You might start your hike on a chilly morning bundled up and wondering why you didn't bring a heavier jacket. A couple miles later, the sun is out, you're climbing a hill and suddenly that jacket is tied around your waist. Then the sun starts going down and you're very happy you brought it along.

Cool mornings. Warmer afternoons. Cool evenings.

That's fall in Minnesota.

Think layers: a moisture-wicking base layer, a fleece or lightweight jacket, and something wind- or rain-resistant if the forecast calls for it. It's much easier to take a layer off than wish you had one you left in the car.
So, What Actually Makes a Hike Great in the Fall?

For me, it's not simply "How many colorful trees does this trail have?" It's the entire experience. It's the sound of leaves crunching with every step. It's the way the trail looks completely different from the last time you hiked it. It's the cool air hitting your face after a warm summer. It's the smell of leaves, dirt and trees.

The leaves won't stay forever. The colors change quickly, and before you know it, the trees are bare and we're pulling out the winter gear. So, grab your boots. Grab your flannel. Grab your PSL. Find a trail. Let the leaves crunch underneath you. And don't be afraid to stop and take it all in.

Minnesota fall doesn't last long. But, it is worth chasing. Fall hiking season is officially here. Let's go find some leaves. According to the DNR, peak fall colors will be October 4-15 with the norther part of the state peaking earlier than the central and south part of Minnesota.