The Majestic Beginning: Start of the Mississippi River
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of the Start of the Mississippi River at Lake Itasca, Minnesota, a must-visit natural attraction.
Discover the breathtaking Start of the Mississippi River, where nature's beauty meets historical significance. This serene location in Lake Itasca, Minnesota, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the origins of one of America's most iconic rivers. Surrounded by lush forests and tranquil waters, it is an ideal spot for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Start of the Mississippi River
- 5QM7+6V, Lake Itasca, Minnesota, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy peaceful solitude and stunning sunrise views over the river.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique scenery and local wildlife, especially around the lake.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking, as there are many trails to explore within the state park.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river, taking advantage of the beautiful natural setting.
- Check for park events or ranger-led programs that offer deeper insights into the area's ecology and history.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start by heading to the nearest major highway. From Minneapolis, take I-94 West towards St. Cloud. After approximately 90 miles, take Exit 199 for MN-71 North towards Park Rapids. Continue for about 28 miles, then take a right onto MN-34 East. After about 10 miles, you will enter the town of Lake Itasca. Follow the signs to Lake Itasca State Park, where the Start of the Mississippi River is located. Parking is available at the park entrance, which may incur a fee of $7 for a daily vehicle permit.
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Public Transportation
For those relying on public transportation, take a Greyhound bus or Amtrak train to the nearest city, which is Park Rapids. From Park Rapids, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to Lake Itasca State Park, as there are no direct public buses to the park. The distance from Park Rapids to Lake Itasca is about 20 miles, and taxi fares may range from $30 to $50 depending on the service.
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Bicycle
If you are an adventurous cyclist, you can bike from nearby towns such as Park Rapids or Bemidji. There are scenic routes available, especially along MN-71. Ensure you have a map, as the roads can be rural and less trafficked. Make sure to wear a helmet and bring plenty of water, as there may not be many stops along the way. The ride from Park Rapids to Lake Itasca is approximately 20 miles.
Discover more about Start of the Mississippi River
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center
6.6 km
Explore the headwaters of the Mississippi River at Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center, a serene recreation center in Minnesota offering adventure and education.
Mississippi River Headwaters
6.6 km
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Levorsen Sawmill historic site
15.6 km
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Rapid River Logging Camp
26.9 km
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Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
40.4 km
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Historic Holmes Theatre
61.8 km
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Detroit Lakes City Park
62.3 km
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History Museum of East Otter Tail County
70.1 km
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Seven Clans Casino, Red Lake
70.7 km
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Rabideau CCC Camp N.H.S.
72.5 km
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Fair Hills Resort
77.5 km
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Thumper Pond Resort
87.6 km
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Otter Tail Lake
92.3 km
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Zorbaz Otter Tail
99.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Mississippi Springs
1.3 km
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Itasca Wilderness Sanctuary Scientific and Natural Area (SNA)
3.8 km
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Lake Itasca Tours
4.9 km
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Preacher's Grove
5.1 km
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Itasca State Park
5.4 km
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Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center
5.5 km
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Itasca State Park, East Entrance
6.8 km
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Itasca State Park, South Entrance
7.2 km
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Lake Itasca Region Pioneer Farmers (LIRPF)
7.9 km
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Itasca State Park, North Entrance
8.0 km
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Two Inlets State Forest
16.5 km
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Evergreen Fun Park
17.4 km
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Paul Bunyan State Forest
27.6 km
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Mississippi Headwaters State Forest
29.8 km
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Forestedge Winery
33.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Douglas Lodge Restaurant
5.0 km
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SPIKE'S
9.5 km
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Necces Italiano Restaurante
32.2 km
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The WoodShed
36.3 km
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The Boulders
47.9 km
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North Shore Grille
49.7 km
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Lakeview Resort & Restaurant
86.0 km
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Fish Tales Bar & Grill
96.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Itasca Sports, Inc.
6.3 km
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ROCK CREEK GENERAL STORE
7.9 km
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Junquemonger Sales Outlet
14.8 km
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Moose-R-Us
15.6 km
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Itasca Moccasin & Gifts
18.3 km
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Camp 71
20.5 km
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Alida Country Store
22.3 km
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Smokey Hills Outdoor Store
30.0 km
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The Tin Ceiling Gallery
32.0 km
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Kathryn's Boutique on Main
32.0 km
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Glik's
32.0 km
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Rust 2 Roses Vintage Market
32.0 km
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Final Frontier Toys
32.0 km
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Trading Post Inc
32.1 km
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Rustic Cabin Decor
32.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bert's Cabins
6.3 km
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The Headwaters Inn
6.4 km
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RENTAL CABINS at Lobos
7.8 km
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Lobo's bar&grill
7.8 km
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Big Timbers
8.1 km
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Knob & Kettle Restaurant And Lounge
9.9 km
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Hoot Owl Resort Restaurant
17.6 km
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Vacationaire Resort & Clancy's on Island Lake
18.7 km
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Foxy's Bar & Grill
19.0 km
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Emmaville Inn
23.2 km
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Ice Cracking Lodge
29.0 km
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Royal Bar
32.0 km
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Wine Not?
32.3 km
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Keg N' Cork
41.7 km
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Jammers Blue Note Ballroom
54.6 km
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