Discover the Tranquil Beauty of the Mississippi River Headwaters
Explore the stunning origins of the Mississippi River at the tranquil Headwaters in Minnesota, a perfect blend of nature and history.
Nestled in the serene landscapes of Minnesota, the Mississippi River Headwaters is a breathtaking scenic spot that offers a glimpse into the origins of America's majestic river. Tourists can immerse themselves in nature, explore historical landmarks, and enjoy a peaceful retreat amidst stunning woodlands and tranquil waters.
A brief summary to Mississippi River Headwaters
- Pinewood, Minnesota, 56676, US
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the water; there are many scenic spots ideal for relaxing.
- Don't forget your camera; the natural beauty and wildlife are photo opportunities waiting to happen.
- Dress in layers; weather can change quickly in this area, especially near the water.
- Explore the marked trails for a guided experience through the rich flora and fauna of the region.
Getting There
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Car
From Big Woods, get on MN-1 N from Main St. Head north on Main St toward County Rd 5, then turn left onto County Rd 5. After about 1.5 miles, merge onto MN-1 N. Continue on MN-1 N for approximately 30 miles. Take the exit toward MN-371 N/Bemidji. Merge onto MN-371 N and continue for about 15 miles. Take the exit for Pinewood, MN. Follow the signs to the Mississippi River Headwaters, which will be on your right. There is no parking fee, but check for any local fees at specific sites.
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Public Transportation
Start your journey by taking a local bus from Big Woods to Bemidji. Use the City of Bemidji's public transportation service (check their schedule online as routes and times may vary). Once in Bemidji, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) to reach the Mississippi River Headwaters in Pinewood, which is about 15 miles away. Be prepared for taxi fares that can range from $25 to $40 depending on the time of day and demand.
Discover more about Mississippi River Headwaters
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mississippi River Headwaters
0.0 km
Explore the stunning origins of the Mississippi River at the tranquil Headwaters in Minnesota, a perfect blend of nature and history.
Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center
0.3 km
Explore the headwaters of the Mississippi River at Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center, a serene recreation center in Minnesota offering adventure and education.
Levorsen Sawmill historic site
17.5 km
Explore the rich history of the Levorsen Sawmill, a vital part of Minnesota's lumber heritage, set in the beautiful landscapes of Naytahwaush.
Rapid River Logging Camp
31.7 km
Experience the rustic charm and delicious offerings of Rapid River Logging Camp, a unique dining destination in the heart of Minnesota's woodlands.
Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
46.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center in Minnesota, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Seven Clans Casino, Red Lake
64.1 km
Discover the excitement of gaming, dining, and entertainment at Seven Clans Casino in Red Lake, Minnesota - a must-visit destination for tourists.
Rabideau CCC Camp N.H.S.
66.7 km
Explore the historic Rabideau CCC Camp N.H.S. in Minnesota, where the beauty of nature meets fascinating American history.
Historic Holmes Theatre
67.6 km
Discover the Historic Holmes Theatre: A cultural hub in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, offering diverse performances in an enchanting setting.
Detroit Lakes City Park
68.1 km
Explore the natural beauty and historical charm of Detroit Lakes City Park, a perfect destination for relaxation and recreation in Minnesota.
History Museum of East Otter Tail County
76.8 km
Explore the vibrant history and heritage of East Otter Tail County at this enlightening museum in Perham, Minnesota, perfect for all history lovers.
Fair Hills Resort
83.3 km
Discover the charm of Fair Hills Resort, a family-friendly retreat in Minnesota with endless activities and stunning natural beauty.
Thumper Pond Resort
94.2 km
Discover the perfect retreat at Thumper Pond Resort, where scenic beauty meets outdoor adventure in Ottertail, Minnesota.
Otter Tail Lake
98.9 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Otter Tail Lake, Minnesota's picturesque destination for outdoor adventures, fishing, and family fun.
Unmissable attractions to see
Itasca State Park, North Entrance
1.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and historical significance of Itasca State Park, the birthplace of the Mississippi River, in Minnesota.
Itasca Wilderness Sanctuary Scientific and Natural Area (SNA)
3.2 km
Explore the stunning Itasca Wilderness Sanctuary in Minnesota, a nature preserve teeming with wildlife, scenic trails, and breathtaking landscapes.
Preacher's Grove
5.1 km
Explore the natural beauty and serene hiking trails of Preacher's Grove in Pinewood, Minnesota, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Lake Itasca Tours
5.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Itasca, where the Mississippi River begins its journey through lush forests and serene lakes.
Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center
6.0 km
Uncover the beauty of Minnesota's Itasca State Park at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center, your hub for adventure and exploration.
Itasca State Park
6.0 km
Explore Itasca State Park, Minnesota's natural gem, where the Mississippi River begins amidst stunning landscapes and rich outdoor adventures.
Start of the Mississippi River
6.6 km
Explore the serene Start of the Mississippi River in Lake Itasca State Park, a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
Itasca State Park, East Entrance
7.5 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Itasca State Park, Minnesota's iconic natural retreat with diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Mississippi Springs
8.0 km
Experience the enchanting landscapes and serene waters of Mississippi Springs in Lake Itasca, Minnesota, perfect for outdoor adventures and nature escapes.
Itasca State Park, South Entrance
10.5 km
Explore Itasca State Park, the birthplace of the Mississippi River, where lush forests and pristine lakes await your adventure in Minnesota's natural beauty.
Evergreen Fun Park
22.6 km
Discover endless fun and adventure at Evergreen Fun Park, Minnesota's top amusement center with thrilling rides, escape rooms, and family-friendly activities.
Two Inlets State Forest
23.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Two Inlets State Forest in Park Rapids, Minnesota, a true haven for nature lovers.
Mississippi Headwaters State Forest
23.1 km
Explore the stunning Mississippi Headwaters State Forest, where the mighty Mississippi River begins its journey amidst lush landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Paul Bunyan State Forest
26.6 km
Explore the vast beauty and tranquility of Paul Bunyan State Forest, a premier nature preserve in Minnesota, perfect for outdoor adventures and family outings.
Forestedge Winery
32.0 km
Discover the enchanting Forestedge Winery in Laporte, Minnesota, where award-winning wines and breathtaking nature come together for an unforgettable experience.
Essential places to dine
Douglas Lodge Restaurant
6.0 km
Discover delicious American cuisine at Douglas Lodge Restaurant nestled in Minnesota's beautiful state park—a perfect stop for nature lovers.
SPIKE'S
14.0 km
Experience flavorful grilled dishes and vibrant ambiance at SPIKE'S in Park Rapids – a culinary delight not to be missed!
The WoodShed
34.1 km
Experience the warmth of hospitality and taste local flavors at The WoodShed Restaurant & Bar in Laporte, Minnesota.
Necces Italiano Restaurante
37.3 km
Indulge in authentic Italian flavors at Necces Italiano Restaurante in Park Rapids - where every meal is a culinary journey.
North Shore Grille
43.4 km
Discover North Shore Grille: A Scenic Dining Experience with Delectable Grilled Dishes in Beautiful Bemidji.
The Boulders
47.3 km
Experience fine dining at The Boulders where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty in Walker, Minnesota.
Lakeview Resort & Restaurant
83.8 km
Experience delightful cuisine and breathtaking views at Lakeview Resort & Restaurant – where nature meets culinary excellence.
Fish Tales Bar & Grill
91.3 km
Discover delicious grill favorites at Fish Tales Bar & Grill in Squaw Lake – a must-visit dining destination for travelers seeking great food and atmosphere.
Thunder Lakes Deer Haven
99.9 km
Discover Thunder Lakes Deer Haven: A lakeside grill and bar offering delicious food and stunning views in Minnesota's natural beauty.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Itasca Sports, Inc.
1.0 km
Discover outdoor adventure at Itasca Sports, Inc., your go-to recreation center for rentals and supplies in the heart of Itasca State Park.
ROCK CREEK GENERAL STORE
1.4 km
Discover the charm of Rock Creek General Store, the perfect stop for outdoor adventurers and local goods, just minutes from Itasca State Park.
Alida Country Store
16.1 km
Discover the charm of rural Minnesota at Alida Country Store, where local goods and community spirit come together.
Itasca Moccasin & Gifts
16.7 km
Experience the artistry of handcrafted leather goods at Itasca Moccasin & Gifts in Lake George, MN - a treasure trove for tourists seeking unique souvenirs.
Moose-R-Us
21.0 km
Discover unique home goods and local crafts at Moose-R-Us in Park Rapids, Minnesota – a treasure trove for tourists seeking special souvenirs.
Junquemonger Sales Outlet
21.0 km
Uncover unique antiques and vintage treasures at Junquemonger Sales Outlet in Lake Itasca, Minnesota, where history and charm await every visitor.
Camp 71
25.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of style and functionality at Camp 71, Park Rapids' premier clothing store for all your outdoor adventures.
Gifts O' the Wild
28.9 km
Explore Gifts O' the Wild in Laporte, Minnesota, a unique gift shop filled with locally crafted treasures and souvenirs that capture the spirit of the North Woods.
Roth RV
33.9 km
Explore the great outdoors with Roth RV, your trusted partner for RV rentals, sales, and repairs in Bemidji, Minnesota.
Smokey Hills Outdoor Store
35.1 km
Discover your ultimate outdoor adventure at Smokey Hills Outdoor Store, where adventure meets quality gear in the heart of Minnesota.
218 Clothing+Gift
35.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at 218 Clothing + Gift in Bemidji, Minnesota, where every item tells a story.
The Tin Ceiling Gallery
37.1 km
Explore local artistry and unique gifts at The Tin Ceiling Gallery in Park Rapids, where every purchase supports Minnesota's vibrant art scene.
Kathryn's Boutique on Main
37.1 km
Discover unique clothing, jewelry, and gifts at Kathryn's Boutique on Main in Park Rapids, the perfect destination for your shopping needs.
Glik's
37.1 km
Explore Glik's in Park Rapids for a unique boutique shopping experience offering trendy clothing and accessories for men and women.
Rust 2 Roses Vintage Market
37.1 km
Discover unique vintage treasures at Rust 2 Roses Vintage Market, an antique store in Park Rapids showcasing history and charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Headwaters Inn
1.0 km
Experience the charm of The Headwaters Inn, where comfort meets the captivating beauty of Itasca State Park in Minnesota.
Big Timbers
1.7 km
Experience comfort and nature at Big Timbers Motel in Lake Itasca, the gateway to Minnesota's breathtaking outdoor adventures.
RENTAL CABINS at Lobos
1.9 km
Experience the tranquility of nature at Lobos Cabins, where cozy accommodations meet the beauty of Minnesota's wilderness.
Lobo's bar&grill
1.9 km
Experience the heart of northern Minnesota at Lobo's Bar & Grill, where delicious food and local charm meet in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bert's Cabins
2.0 km
Experience the tranquility of Bert's Cabins in Itasca State Park, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and pet owners seeking adventure.
Knob & Kettle Restaurant And Lounge
9.7 km
Discover the heart of Laporte at Knob & Kettle Restaurant And Lounge, where comfort food meets a cozy atmosphere.
Hoot Owl Resort Restaurant
21.5 km
Discover a culinary oasis at Hoot Owl Resort Restaurant, where local flavors meet stunning natural beauty in Minnesota.
Vacationaire Resort & Clancy's on Island Lake
23.5 km
Experience the tranquility of Island Lake while indulging in delicious local cuisine at Vacationaire Resort & Clancy's in Park Rapids, Minnesota.
Foxy's Bar & Grill
23.8 km
Discover the delicious flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Foxy's Bar & Grill in Park Rapids, the perfect spot for great food and local brews.
Emmaville Inn
25.8 km
Discover the charm of Emmaville Inn in Park Rapids, MN—a cozy cafe perfect for breakfast and coffee lovers alike.
Ice Cracking Lodge
34.8 km
Discover the cozy charm of Ice Cracking Lodge in Minnesota, where great food, refreshing drinks, and stunning views await you.
Keg N' Cork
35.6 km
Discover Keg N' Cork, Bemidji's premier Irish pub offering hearty food, local brews, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Royal Bar
37.1 km
Discover the Royal Bar, a cozy and affordable gem in Park Rapids, offering local drinks, live music, and a friendly atmosphere.
Wine Not?
37.4 km
Discover the charm of Wine Not? in Park Rapids, MN, where exquisite wines and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable moments.
Jammers Blue Note Ballroom
48.4 km
Discover the nightlife at Jammers Blue Note Ballroom, a premier live music venue in Bemidji, Minnesota, perfect for dancing and socializing.
