DLM Distribution

Great River Bluffs State Park

Great River Bluffs State Park in southeastern Minnesota offers some of the most breathtaking views in the Upper Midwest. Perched atop towering limestone and sandstone bluffs, the park rises nearly 500 feet above the Mississippi River. Located just southeast of Winona, the park covers about 3,000 acres in the Driftless Region, an area untouched by the last glaciers. Its rugged landscape of deep valleys, sheer cliffs, and rolling ridges makes it a remarkable destination for hikers, campers, and nature lovers.

History and Conservation
The land that is now Great River Bluffs State Park was first considered for development in the early 1970s. Originally it was called O. L. Kipp State Park, but when the intended site could not be purchased, nearby land was transferred from the state’s forestry division. The park officially opened to the public in 1976 and was renamed in the late 1990s to better reflect its dramatic scenery and location on the Mississippi River.

Within the park are protected areas such as King’s and Queen’s Bluff Scientific and Natural Areas. These zones are home to fragile ecosystems including rare “goat prairies”—steep, sun-exposed slopes where prairie grasses thrive—and a unique stand of northern white cedar far south of its typical range. These ecosystems, preserved on erosion-resistant dolomite above layers of sandstone, make the park ecologically significant as well as visually stunning.

Geology and Landscape
The bluffs are the result of ancient geological forces. Dolomite and sandstone, carved by the Mississippi River and long-ago glacial meltwaters, create the sheer cliffs and narrow valleys that define the park. Because the Driftless Region was never smoothed over by glaciers, the terrain remains rugged and dramatic, giving visitors panoramic views unlike anywhere else in Minnesota.

Trails and Hiking
Great River Bluffs State Park is best known for its scenic overlooks and ridge-top trails. The King’s Bluff Trail is the signature hike, stretching about two and a half miles round-trip. This route winds through oak savanna and hardwood forests before reaching the overlook, which rewards hikers with sweeping views of the Mississippi River Valley, Queen’s Bluff, and Miller Valley.

The park also features shorter walks like the South Overlook Trail and East Overlook Trail. These paths provide easy access to river vistas and are especially beautiful in autumn when the surrounding hardwood forests glow with fall color. In total, the park maintains about six and a half miles of hiking trails, along with three miles of groomed cross-country ski trails in winter.

Camping and Facilities
Camping is a popular way to experience the park. The main campground includes drive-in sites with access to showers, flush toilets, and a sense of seclusion among the wooded bluffs. For those looking for a quieter stay, there are cart-in and bike-in sites that provide a more rustic feel. The park also offers picnic areas and small visitor facilities with interpretive information to help guests understand the unique history and ecology of the land.

Wildlife and Birdwatching
The Mississippi River Valley is a major corridor for migratory birds, making the park a haven for birdwatchers. Bald eagles, hawks, and countless waterfowl can be seen throughout the year, especially during spring and fall migrations. The diversity of plant life also supports a wide variety of mammals, reptiles, and insects. Visitors are advised to stay on marked trails to both protect sensitive habitats and avoid encounters with rare but present timber rattlesnakes.

Things to Do Nearby
Great River Bluffs State Park is only a short drive from Winona, a city rich with cultural attractions, dining, and riverfront beauty. Scenic drives like the Apple Blossom Scenic Byway wind through rolling farmland and orchards, offering beautiful views in every season. Nearby attractions include the Historic Pickwick Mill, Hoch Orchard Hard Cider & Winery, and Cedar Valley Golf Course. These nearby destinations complement a park visit and make the area ideal for a weekend getaway.

Why Visit Great River Bluffs State Park
Great River Bluffs State Park is a destination that combines dramatic scenery with ecological importance. From its panoramic overlooks to its rare goat prairies and cedar groves, the park offers something special for hikers, campers, and nature enthusiasts alike. The trails are accessible and family-friendly, yet the views rival those found in more remote or rugged locations. Whether you come for a day hike, a weekend of camping, or to watch migratory birds soar over the river valley, Great River Bluffs provides an unforgettable experience in southeastern Minnesota.

Minnesota State Parks

If your traveliung in Minnesota, more natural treasures are waiting. Find more great Minnesota State Park trip ideas here.