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Mississippi Headwaters State Forest
4.7 ★★★★★ 401 Google reviews · Running trail in Bemidji, Minnesota · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
We have not been able to confirm the surface, distance or shape of Mississippi Headwaters State Forest yet from its own listing, the park's website or runner reviews — so those cells stay blank rather than guess. What is below comes straight from the listing and from reviewers' own words. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
8,500 acres of public forestland & 95 lakes & ponds for hiking, boating & swimming.
What runners say about Mississippi Headwaters State Forest
“Definitely interesting, fun, and beautiful area whether you're there when it's a full crowd or empty!”
“Children of all ages were enjoying the pool & headwaters.”
Nice place to visit, but I guess they are still shut down for Covid19 or something. Not really sure. But we could still walk a short way back following the signs to the Headwaters. Not real exciting, but you can literally walk out into the middle of the Mississippi River.
For a $7 day pass per vehicle it's well worth it. The younger kids had a blast. Very short walk to the headwaters on a path that is walkable with a stroller. Very family friendly.
Nice little drive from Bemidji MN but worth it to see where the mighty Mississippi headwaters begin, especially for this Midwestern gal who sees massive bridges built over it further down river.
So much fun! A must-see location. The walk from the parking lot is very short. Great for all ages. They even have wheelchairs available.
Trail conditions & character
“Definitely interesting, fun, and beautiful area whether you're there when it's a full crowd or empty!”
“The walk from the parking lot is very short.”
“Very short walk to the headwaters on a path that is walkable with a stroller.”
Plan your run at Mississippi Headwaters State Forest
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitednr.state.mn.us
- Phone+1 651-296-6157
- Social Instagram · Facebook
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