Minnesota may be known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, but that doesn’t mean you should overlook our other bodies of water. In fact, the state is home to many rushing rivers that are well worth visiting. From the Mighty Mississippi to the stunning St. Croix, there are plenty of gorgeous rivers to see – and plenty of hikes to go along with them. One of the best river hikes is along northern Minnesota’s Vermilion River. This magical river walk is so beautiful that you’ll feel you’ve been transported to another world. Take a look:

Vermilion Gorge Trail is a trail in northern Minnesota. You’ll find it near a tiny community called Crane Lake, 27 miles northeast of Orr, Minnesota.

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Follow signs for the Voyageurs National Park office. The parking lot is past the office and to the left. It’s very close to the gorgeous waters of Crane Lake.

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When you step onto the trail, you’ll be surrounded by the tall trees of Superior National Forest.

Tony Webster/Flickr

You’ll see everything from birch to red pine along your journey - not to mention the other beautiful foliage you’ll see along the way.

Tony Webster/Flickr

The trail to the gorge is 1.5 miles, so it will be a 3-mile round trip. Much of the trail is gravel, with boardwalks to cross especially wet areas.

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As you near the gorge, you’ll catch glimpses of the Vermilion River as it flows.

Sara B./AllTrails

When you finally reach the gorge, you’ll be awestruck by its beauty. Sheer granite cliffs line the rushing river.

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The rugged landscape is unique in a state full of rolling hills and clear blue lakes. But that makes it even more spectacular.

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A hike along the Vermilion Gorge Trail is like a trip to another world.

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This magical river walk is one of the best in Minnsesota! Do you have any other favorite trails?

HelenaGuerra/TripAdvisor

Tony Webster/Flickr

Chuck G/TripAdvisor

Sara B./AllTrails

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