Some of Minnesota’s best places to see fall colors are high above the trees! That’s certainly the case for the gorgeous gondola that takes you to the top of Moose Mountain. It also rings true for the Kerfoot Canopy Tour, where you can whisk through the trees high above the ground! Today, we want to introduce yet another aerial view of Minnesota’s changing leaves. This one takes the form of a 100-foot-tall fire tower at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park. Muster the courage to reach the top, and you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view. Read on to learn all you need to know about seeing fall colors at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park.
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park is a beautiful stretch of east-central Minnesota. It’s located on the southwestern shores of Lake Mille Lacs.
Tony Webster/Flickr
The park covers more than 10,000 acres. It’s made up of lovely dense forests, open clearings, and sparkling lake views.
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Mille Lacs Kathio’s forests are mostly made up of northern hardwoods. You’ll find aspen, birch, maple, and oak within its borders. Come fall, the trees blaze with color.
Robin Sorenson/Google
About 35 miles of hiking trails criss-cross the park. For example, the 1-mile Landmark Trail will take you to ancient Native American villages as you trek through the colorful forest.
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park/Google
If you only have time for one activity, though, make a visit to the historic fire tower. It rises 100 feet above the ground, offering spectacular views of the tops of the trees - especially in the fall.
Nora Smith/Google
A series of long, steep staircases will take you to the top. It’s a strenuous climb for many, and those with a fear of heights may not make it to the top.
Mike Courtney/Google
But if you do manage to reach the observation deck, you’ll be able to see for miles! In the fall, the changing leaves provide a new view every day.
jinjjy/TripAdvisor
Trust us, the view will make the climb well worth it. You’ll not only have a view of the fall leaves. Lake Mille Lacs is also visible in the distance!
Alexander Veraguth/Google
According to the DNR Fall Color Finder, the leaves at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park usually peak within the first two weeks of October. Plan a trip to see one of the most beautiful sights in the state!
jinjjy/TripAdvisor
Do you have any other favorite places to see the fall colors in Minnesota? Let us know about it in the comments below!
Tony Webster/Flickr
aknuts/TripAdvisor
Robin Sorenson/Google
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park/Google
Nora Smith/Google
Mike Courtney/Google
jinjjy/TripAdvisor
Alexander Veraguth/Google
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Address: 15066 Kathio State Park Rd, Onamia, MN 56359, USA
