| Name | Headwaters of The Mississippi River |
| Address | 36750 Main Park DrPark Rapids , MN 56470 |
| Brief Description | Step across the humble beginning of fourth longest river in the world. The Mississippi River begins its 2552 mile journey from Lake Itasca in Itasca State Park to the Gulf of Mexico. |
| Type | Attraction |
| Category | Scenic |
| Description | Legend has it that those who step across the Mississippi River at its source will live a long and fruitful life. Experience the pristine beauty of the Mississippi River as it winds from its source at Itasca State Park to Bemidji, the First City on the Mississippi. The Great River Road National Scenic Byway also begins in Itasca State Park, along with the Mississippi River Trail Bikeway and Mississippi River State Water Trail. So whether your mode of travel is by car, bicycle or canoe, the opportunities to enjoy abundant wildlife and the pristine, peacefulness of the headwaters area of the Mississippi are at your fingertips.
Leisurely canoe, bike or drive the first section of the Great River Road National Scenic Byway offering abundant wildlife viewing along peaceful country roads.
The source of the Mississippi River is in Itasca State Park. Established in 1891, Itasca is Minnesota's oldest state park. Today, the park totals more than 32,000 acres and includes more than 100 lakes. Walk across the mighty Mississippi as it starts its winding journey 2,552 miles to the Gulf of Mexico. Stand under towering pines at Preacher's Grove. Visit the Itasca Indian Cemetery or Wegmann's Cabin, landmarks of centuries gone by. Camp under the stars, or stay the night at the historic Douglas Lodge or cabins. Explore Wilderness Drive past the 2,000-acre Wilderness Sanctuary, one of Minnesota's seven National Natural Landmarks.
Itasca's amenties include two seasonal restaurants, Itasca Sports Rental offering bicycle and water related equipment, suites and rooms, 223 campsites and interpretive educational programing. Swimming beach, fishing, picnic areas and 16 miles of paved bike trails in summer season, cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails in winter along with ice fishing. Four seasons of fun and pristine beauty await at Itasca State Park. |
| Phone 1 | (218) 699-7251 |
| Handicapped Accessible | Yes |
| Website | www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/itasca/index.html |
| Last Updated | 4/2/2012 |
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