Did you know Preston, Minnesota, is home to a stunning turquoise lake unlike anything you’ll find in any other part of the state? Though this spot has many visitors throughout the year, it still remains hidden from many Minnesotans. Why? Because the beautiful lake is in a cave, at the end of a subterranean trail through southern Minnesota. If you’re looking for a beautiful – and cooling – hike to do in Minnesota as the weather warms up, check out this unforgettable hike.

For most Minnesotans, the journey to the turquoise lake will be a long one. It’s located at Forestville Mystery Cave State Park in Preston, Minnesota. That’s about 120 miles southeast of the Twin Cities.

Tony Webster/Flickr

But your trip will be well worth it. After you park and check in at the visitor center, you’ll take a short trek through the beautiful mixed forest that surrounds the park. The Scenic Tour costs $15 for adults and $12 for youth aged 12 and under and can be reserved online for easier planning.

Jessica Hayssen/Flickr

The path will take you over a walking bridge that spans the Root River. This gorgeous river alone is worth a day trip for its slow, cool waters. It’s perfect for tubing!

Jessica Hayssen/Flickr

As you approach the entrance to the cave, you’ll encounter gently sloping pathways that are suitable for both wheelchairs and strollers. These continue throughout the cave.

Justin1015/TripAdvisor

The Scenic Tour is about 3/4 miles long, so it’s perfect for those exploring with youngsters.

PurpleMN/TripAdvisor

But the dark stretches of the cave’s passageways are sure to enchant visitors of all ages. At one point, the tour guide will turn out all the lights so you can experience total darkness!

Denise B/TripAdvisor

When the lights are on, you’ll get to see beautiful rock formations up close. In addition to flowstone, there are shallow pools that are fascinating to look at.

MN Photos/Flickr

But the end of the tour is where the main attraction lies. Usually shrouded in darkness, the tour guide will turn on the lights…

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…and you’ll be greeted by the bluest water you’ve ever seen. Its still pools look too beautiful to be true.

MN Photos/Flickr

You’ll have several minutes to admire the beautiful turquoise lake. There is no place like it in Minnesota!

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources/Facebook

This beautiful trail is certainly underrated! But visit once, and you’ll be telling everyone you know about the hidden turquoise lake at the end of the path. Have you ever visited the lake at Mystery Cave State Park?

Tony Webster/Flickr

Jessica Hayssen/Flickr

Justin1015/TripAdvisor

PurpleMN/TripAdvisor

Denise B/TripAdvisor

MN Photos/Flickr

KetanDeshpande/TripAdvisor

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources/Facebook

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