Minnesota MN Land of 10000 Lakes and Counting

Minnesota is a gorgeous State located at the top-center of the United States. Bordered by Wisconsin, North and South Dakota, Iowa and Canada, Minnesota is truly among the best tourist attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. Land of 10,000 Lakes is what Minnesota is referred as. However at last count, there is actually approximately 15,000 lakes accounted for.

I have lived in Minnesota my entire life. I live on the Mississippi River. Each day I look out my window to see the mighty current rushing by. The Mississippi is amazing, but what is more amazing is the vast amount of lakes in Minnesota to explore.

Minnesotans joke that there is one season in Minnesota- Winter. It's true, winter months do fill about half the year but that does not mean the activities on the lake have to end. Ice fishing is a sport practiced by many during the cold and snow.The thought of -35 degrees and a foot of snow would scare away most people, but it is a welcomed forecast for the fisherman. Fish-a-plenty while you are snug in your ice house drinking beer and watching television. There is really nothing like it.

Ice skating with the kids, playing a game of ice hockey, snowmobiling across the lake are some other popular winter sports available on the lake.

Summer in Minnesota is a time to sail, swim, kayak and canoe. Not only are the activities enjoyable but so is the view!

Duluth, Minnesota

Duluth is my favorite summer vacation spot. Located on Lake Superior, the largest fresh water lake in the world, it is truly breath taking. The rocks of Lake Superior's North Shore are thought to be as old as the beginning of Earth. These rocks are visible and gorgeous at sight.

While visiting Lake Superior, make sure to take some down time by looking for agates! My daughters and I do this every summer and has become a family-made-tradition. Lake Superior agates are quite different than other agates as they are vibrant in red, yellow and orange colors. Not only are agates the official state gemstone, they make a wonderful souvenir.

Duluth has other sites to see on the lake. The Aerial Lift Bridge, formally known as a transporter bridge, is a landmark that people from far and wide travel to see. Also there are numerous lighthouses located along the shore.

Boundary Waters

Just west of Lake Superior joined with the Superior National Forest is Boundary Waters. If you are looking for canoeing, sight-seeing, hiking, fishing or camping on a lake, by all means this is the place. Not only is there a variety of different lakes, the variety of wildlife are endless. In the right season and on the right day, you may catch a glimpse of the mighty Bald Eagle or an owl silently gazing as you pass by. Moose, deer, and hawks are just a few of the wildlife among you.

Hungry? Pick a fresh blueberry or two, but do not pick the ever protected wildflowers. They are there for your viewing, not your cabin.

(BWCAW) Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is over a million acres and has over a thousand lakes. Plan at least a week, if not more, to engulf the beauty of this area.

Mille Lacs Lake

Mention Mille Lacs Lake to a fellow Minnesotan and you will hear stories of great fishing and fond family memories. Mille Lacs Lake is the second largest lake in Minnesota. and is located on the northern border of Mille Lacs County, MN adjacent to Mille Lacs Kathio State Park. Mille Lacs was named by the French, meaning a "thousand lakes."

Walleye is the most common "catch" for fisherman and it is no surprise to find yourself frightened from a grouse running out of the trees. Woodpeckers, red-winged blackbirds, deer, black bears and numerous song birds will keep you company on your visit to the lake. A definite family outing if in the area.

Chain of Lakes

Lake Harriet, Lake Calhoun, Lake of the Isles, and Cedar Lake connect along this chain of lakes located in the heart of Minnesota. Minneapolis, Minnesota is one of the two cities known as the Twin Cities in Minnesota and is home to this relaxing retreat from the hustle and bustle of the 'big city'.

Other than Mall of America that is located in Bloomington, the Chain of Lakes is the second most visited destination in Minnesota. And it is no wonder considering it's beauty and the activities offered.

During the Summer months:

• Bring a canoe or kayak and paddle yourself from lake to lake as they are connected by canals which ultimately makes the chain of the Chain of Lakes
• Skate, jog or walk the 3.2 mile trail that circles the lake
• Fish at one of the two docks provided for your deep water fishing
• Swim or sunbath on one of the three sand beaches at Lake Calhoun
• Windsurf or sail the day away on the lake, rentals are offered

Concerts are held at the Band Shell at Lake Harriet. This is very popular. Art shows, festivals, people watching (which is my all time favorite) and the Minnesota-nice make this a must visit on your next Minnesota vacation.

The lakes of Minnesota are an attraction that cannot be avoided if you are in the area. If you have no intention of making Minnesota a potential vacation spot, I urge you to reconsider. Minnesota is the Land of 10,000 Lakes and counting, I encourage you to explore with us.