Minnesota
Brimming with so much nature and adventure, there are so many reasons why Minnesota should be on everyone’s list for their next trip. Minnesota’s wilderness is one of the finest the country can offer. Aptly named as the land of 10,000 lakes, you can just imagine how many things you can do in this gorgeous state. From kayaking, swimming, deep diving, and paddling, the possibilities are endless.
Geography
Minnesota is located in the upper midwest region of the United States. The state is fondly known for two things: being the land of 10,000 lakes and the star of the north. Where the word ‘Minnesota’ truly comes from is still debated upon. In Dakota, it can either mean ‘clear blue water’ or ‘cloudy water’ — which obviously, kind of counteracts each other. What is clear is that water is the keyword here and Minnesota truly has a lot of it.
The state has 11,842 lakes all over it that are more than 10 acres. There is, of course, the Lake Superior which is the largest at 3,896km2 large and the deepest at 1,290 ft.
Apart from its waters, Minnesota has some of the earth’s oldest rocks that are about 3.6 billion years old (80% as old as the planet). Minnesota’s geography is built and primarily formed by volcanic activity. Of course, today, Minnesota is now geographically quiet. Earthquakes are infrequent and mostly minor.
History
The Dakota people were already living and thriving in the regions of Minnesota before the Europeans first arrived. The first Europeans to arrive were voyageurs and fur trades in the 17th century. When the French started migrating and settling into Minnesota, there was naturally tension and resistance from the groups indigenous to the land.
Several wars and treaties later, Minnesota Territory was formed on March 3, 1849. It would take almost another 10 years later before Minnesota would officially become the 32nd state of the United States.
Weather
Minnesota’s continental climate allows it to experience hot summers and cold winters. In winter, temperature is normally around or below freezing degrees. By summer, it can go as high as 86 fahrenheit degrees or 30 celsius in some parts. Be sure to do your research on the dates you are going and keep an eye out on your trusted weather app.
Tourism
What draws most tourists into Minnesota is its waters, but the forested wilderness within this state is pretty spectacular as well. The state has done a great job protecting them, too. As far as our knowledge goes, there are 72 state parks and recreation areas all over Minnesota today. There are also 58 state forests that cover, at least, four million acres of the state’s total land area.
This makes Minnesota undeniably one of the best states to visit for camping. Now, if you are new to camping, best to check out our pieces on camping for beginners: the ultimate guide, 10 must-bring camping essentials, or 10 clever camping hacks that actually work.
Keep safe!
Key information about Minnesota
📍 Area: 225,163 km2
👥 Population: 5,639,632
🏛️ Capital: Saint Paul
🏢 Major cities: Minneapolis, Duluth, Minnesota City, St. Cloud
🔢 Number of counties: 87
📋 Postal Abbreviation: MN
📖 Primary language/s: English, Spanish, Hmong
📌 Nearby states/country: Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, Canada
Adventure Guides In Minnesota
