Minnehaha Falls

Minnehaha Falls is a stunning 53-foot plunge waterfall in the heart of Minneapolis, where Minnehaha Creek drops over a limestone ledge into a gorge on its way to the Mississippi River. The falls were immortalized by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in "The Song of Hiawatha" and have been drawing visitors since the 19th century. The broad curtain of water, framed by layered limestone and draped with wild grapevines and ferns, creates a scene of surprising natural beauty just minutes from downtown Minneapolis.

Minnehaha Regional Park surrounds the falls with 193 acres of urban green space, connected by paved paths that are fully accessible. The main overlook is steps from the parking area, and a stone staircase descends to the base of the falls where visitors can get close to the mist and the pool below. The park extends downstream through a wooded gorge to the Mississippi River, with trails that add several miles of walking. The surrounding park includes gardens, picnic areas, a bandshell, and the historic Longfellow House interpretive center.

Spring snowmelt produces the most dramatic flow, while summer brings festivals and concerts in the park. Fall foliage frames the limestone walls in color. In winter, the falls partially freeze into spectacular ice formations that draw photographers and ice climbers. The park is accessible by light rail, bike paths, and city bus routes, making it one of the most transit-accessible major waterfalls in the country.