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In 1988, Congress created the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area to preserve about 54,000 acres straddling a 72-mile corridor of the upper Mississippi River.
This protected stretch of the Mississippi flows through the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Within this region are a variety of cultural, historical and industrial sites that tell the story of human development.
The character of the Mississippi River changes more dramatically here than anywhere else on its nearly 2,350-mile journey.
Emerging from the forests of the north, the river passes through one of America’s largest urban areas and the heart of the Upper Midwest’s cultural and commercial center before entering the open agricultural lands to the south.
Wild and shallow at the upper end, the river narrows as it creates a deep gorge beginning near downtown Minneapolis and St. Anthony Falls, the only true waterfall on the entire length of the Mississippi.
The gorge extends several miles downstream to a point near downtown St. Paul. By the time the Mississippi reaches its confluence with the St. Croix River, the river has widened to become a vast and powerful part of the largest inland navigation system on earth.
Parks and trails for biking, walking, inline skating, and cross-country skiing straddle the Mississippi River within this region.
The Great River Road follows the river and provides many opportunities for motorists to stop at points of interests and overlooks.
Canoeing, kayaking, fishing and boating are popular at sites throughout the river corridor.
Visitors may explore and visit interpretive centers and educational facilities operated by the partner parks and other organizations within the river corridor. Guided and self-guided tours and riverboat tours are available in several areas.
The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area does not charge fees, but some state and local parks, programs and facilities along the river may charge fees.
The National Park Service operates a visitor center in the Science Museum of Minnesota. The Mississippi River Visitor Center is free and open daily.
Food, lodging, and restrooms are readily available throughout the corridor and the metropolitan area.
Outdoor Activities |
