The best thing about Taylors Falls MN? It’s under an hour from Minneapolis! And is one of the best state parks Minnesota has to offer.
You can go for a quick few hours OR go for a full day. There’s plenty to do! Here’s how we spent our time in Taylors Falls!
Hike the Riverwalk trail at Interstate State Park
Start your hike at Interstate State Park near Taylors Falls downtown. There is a fee for parking, but we parked elsewhere and walked in. Before starting your hike, take a quick look at the glacial pot holes – these are massive holes in the ground that were created by the glacial lake that was once here. It’s so crazy to see! Also hike up to some of the rocks right on the river for some great views. Then head to the River Trail for more amazing views of the St. Croix!
Take the stairs up to the sandstone bluffs
Once you reach the end of the River Trail you’ll see the other park office. Next, take the stairs up to the sandstone bluffs where you’re able to get up close and personal with the bluffs and explore the area. If you don’t like steps, it’s probably a good idea to skip this part of the trail!
Walk the Railroad trail back to Taylors Falls
The Sandstone Bluffs trail meets up with the Railroad Trail. Otherwise you can hop on the Railroad Trail right from the River Trail if you chose to skip that part. This is the easiest trail right in the woods and offers up great colors in the fall! But no views of the river.
Grab lunch at Juneberry Cafe
We weren’t feeling up for bar food, so we stopped into Juneberry Cafe for a lighter lunch and local, organic ingredients! We chose to sit down with hot pressed sandwiches and fresh tomato basil soup (OMG so good!), but Juneberry Cafe offers lots of healthy takeaway options as well! Perfect for treats while you hike or camp.
Get a root beer float at the Taylors Falls Drive In
It’s tough to find authentic drive ins, so head to the Taylors Falls Drive In to get the best experience out there! The drive in has been in business for over 60 years and feels like you’re taking a step (or drive) back in time. Make sure to order the root beer float – they make their own root beer daily!
Take a ride on a paddle boat
After our bellies were full, it was time to get back on the river. We took a ride from the Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tour to see the pretty fall colors from the water. The tour is 80 minutes and costs about $20 per person. If you’re looking for an easy way to see the state park, this is it! Snacks and drinks are available on board.
Looking for more fall fun in Minnesota? Check out our day trips to Montgomery MN (The cutest pizza spot and apple orchard!) and Winona MN (The best MN donuts and fall hiking!)
Taylors Falls Drive-In has the best food and drinks while on a trip to the cabin in WI. Don’t tell anyone, though. I want to keep it my secret.
Haha oops might be too late!
FYI-That was not a parking fee at Interstate State Park. It was the entrance fee which is waived if you have a MN State Park permit.