Mississippi National River & Recreation Area

Dakota people call the Mississippi River "Haha Wakpa" (river of the falls). The story of Minneapolis begins at Owamniyomni (turbulent waters, whirlpool, or eddy) or St. Anthony Falls, the only true waterfall on the 2,350-mile length of the Mississippi River. This ranger-led tour connects archaeological sites, nationally significant historic buildings and landmarks, while moving through an abundant natural environment.

Tours begin at the bandstand in Father Hennepin Bluff Park. Meet at the bandstand. You'll explore the historic riverfront of the area with a National Park Service ranger who will share stories about the area's past, present, and future.

The tour is suitable for all ages. We will walk up to 1.25 miles (approx. 2 km) on level, paved trails. Some sections offer little-to-no-protection from the weather elements. Wear weather-appropriate clothing and footwear.

Cancellation Policy: All events are rain/snow or shine. Participants must be prepared for expected weather and may be turned away if not for their safety. Up to date information is available by calling the Mississippi River Visitor Center at 651-293-0200 (business hours apply). Registered participants receive email notification of canceled events a minimum of two hours before the event start time from miss_info@nps.gov.

The possibilities for discovery are endless in winter at Mississippi National River and Recreation Area!

Join us at Crosby Farm Regional Park where nature's beauty reveals itself in its serene, frosty charm. This enchanting stroll will be led by a knowledgeable national park ranger who will guide you through the breathtaking floodplain forest, showcasing the unique ecology and wildlife that thrive in this winter landscape.

As we meander along the peaceful trails, you'll have the opportunity to explore the stunning views of the frozen riverbanks and the delicate intricacies of the winter ecosystem. Our ranger will share fascinating insights about the flora and fauna that call this area home as well as the significance of the floodplain. On your adventure, you may discover coyote tracks, owl pellets, or bald eagle nests.

This walk is suitable for all ages. When weather allows, we may travel over snow or a frozen lake. We'll go up 1.25 miles (approx. 2 km) depending on current trail conditions. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water to stay hydrated, and dress warmly as no heating facilities are available. We recommend participants be prepared to travel across snow and/or icy conditions (e.g., traction devices, trekking poles). Don't forget your sense of wonder as we immerse ourselves in the beauty of winter!

Cancellation Policy: Events are rain/snow or shine. Participants must be prepared for expected weather and may be turned away if not for their safety. Up to date information is available by calling the Mississippi River Visitor Center at 651-293-0200 (business hours apply).

The possibilities for discovery are endless in winter at Mississippi National River and Recreation Area!

Join us at Mni Owe Sni where nature's beauty reveals itself in its serene, frosty charm. This enchanting stroll will be led by a knowledgeable national park ranger who will guide you through the breathtaking Oak Savannah and prairie, showcasing the unique ecology and wildlife that thrive in this winter landscape.

As we meander along the peaceful trails, you'll have the opportunity to explore the changes that have affected this dramatic landscape over the past 200 years. Our ranger will share fascinating insights about the flora and fauna that call this area home as well as the significance of the restoration work in an urban area. On your adventure, you may discover coyote tracks, owl pellets, or bald eagle nests.

This walk is suitable for all ages. When weather allows, we may travel over snow. We'll go up 1.25 miles (approx. 2 km) depending on current trail conditions. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water to stay hydrated, and dress warmly as no heating facilities are available. We recommend participants be prepared to travel across snow and/or icy conditions (e.g., traction devices, trekking poles). Don't forget your sense of wonder as we immerse ourselves in the beauty of winter!

Cancellation Policy: Events are rain/snow or shine. Participants must be prepared for expected weather and may be turned away if not for their safety. Up to date information is available by calling the Mississippi River Visitor Center at 651-293-0200 (business hours apply).

Join National Park Service Rangers and organizations from around Saint Paul at Crosby Farm to enjoy some fun in the snow! From walks, talks, and interactive activities, you will be able to explore a piece of the Mississippi River during the beauty of winter.

The possibilities for discovery are endless in winter at Mississippi National River and Recreation Area!

Join us at Mni Owe Sni where nature's beauty reveals itself in its serene, frosty charm. This enchanting stroll will be led by a knowledgeable national park ranger who will guide you through the breathtaking Oak Savannah and prairie, showcasing the unique ecology and wildlife that thrive in this winter landscape.

As we meander along the peaceful trails, you'll have the opportunity to explore the changes that have affected this dramatic landscape over the past 200 years. Our ranger will share fascinating insights about the flora and fauna that call this area home as well as the significance of the restoration work in an urban area. On your adventure, you may discover coyote tracks, owl pellets, or bald eagle nests.

This walk is suitable for all ages. When weather allows, we may travel over snow. We'll go up 1.25 miles (approx. 2 km) depending on current trail conditions. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water to stay hydrated, and dress warmly as no heating facilities are available. We recommend participants be prepared to travel across snow and/or icy conditions (e.g., traction devices, trekking poles). Don't forget your sense of wonder as we immerse ourselves in the beauty of winter!

Cancellation Policy: Events are rain/snow or shine. Participants must be prepared for expected weather and may be turned away if not for their safety. Up to date information is available by calling the Mississippi River Visitor Center at 651-293-0200 (business hours apply).

The possibilities for discovery are endless in winter at Mississippi National River and Recreation Area!

Join us at Crosby Farm Regional Park where nature's beauty reveals itself in its serene, frosty charm. This enchanting stroll will be led by a knowledgeable national park ranger who will guide you through the breathtaking floodplain forest, showcasing the unique ecology and wildlife that thrive in this winter landscape.

As we meander along the peaceful trails, you'll have the opportunity to explore the stunning views of the frozen riverbanks and the delicate intricacies of the winter ecosystem. Our ranger will share fascinating insights about the flora and fauna that call this area home as well as the significance of the floodplain. On your adventure, you may discover coyote tracks, owl pellets, or bald eagle nests.

This walk is suitable for all ages. When weather allows, we may travel over snow or a frozen lake. We'll go up 1.25 miles (approx. 2 km) depending on current trail conditions. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water to stay hydrated, and dress warmly as no heating facilities are available. We recommend participants be prepared to travel across snow and/or icy conditions (e.g., traction devices, trekking poles). Don't forget your sense of wonder as we immerse ourselves in the beauty of winter!

Cancellation Policy: Events are rain/snow or shine. Participants must be prepared for expected weather and may be turned away if not for their safety. Up to date information is available by calling the Mississippi River Visitor Center at 651-293-0200 (business hours apply).

Dakota people call the Mississippi River "Haha Wakpa" (river of the falls). The story of Minneapolis begins at Owamniyomni (turbulent waters, whirlpool, or eddy) or St. Anthony Falls, the only true waterfall on the 2,350-mile length of the Mississippi River. This ranger-led tour connects archaeological sites, nationally significant historic buildings and landmarks, while moving through an abundant natural environment.

Tours begin at the bandstand in Father Hennepin Bluff Park. Meet at the bandstand. You'll explore the historic riverfront of the area with a National Park Service ranger who will share stories about the area's past, present, and future.

The tour is suitable for all ages. We will walk up to 1.25 miles (approx. 2 km) on level, paved trails. Some sections offer little-to-no-protection from the weather elements. Wear weather-appropriate clothing and footwear.

Cancellation Policy: All events are rain/snow or shine. Participants must be prepared for expected weather and may be turned away if not for their safety. Up to date information is available by calling the Mississippi River Visitor Center at 651-293-0200 (business hours apply). Registered participants receive email notification of canceled events a minimum of two hours before the event start time from miss_info@nps.gov.

The possibilities for discovery are endless in winter at Mississippi National River and Recreation Area!

Join us at Mni Owe Sni where nature's beauty reveals itself in its serene, frosty charm. This enchanting stroll will be led by a knowledgeable national park ranger who will guide you through the breathtaking Oak Savannah and prairie, showcasing the unique ecology and wildlife that thrive in this winter landscape.

As we meander along the peaceful trails, you'll have the opportunity to explore the changes that have affected this dramatic landscape over the past 200 years. Our ranger will share fascinating insights about the flora and fauna that call this area home as well as the significance of the restoration work in an urban area. On your adventure, you may discover coyote tracks, owl pellets, or bald eagle nests.

This walk is suitable for all ages. When weather allows, we may travel over snow. We'll go up 1.25 miles (approx. 2 km) depending on current trail conditions. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water to stay hydrated, and dress warmly as no heating facilities are available. We recommend participants be prepared to travel across snow and/or icy conditions (e.g., traction devices, trekking poles). Don't forget your sense of wonder as we immerse ourselves in the beauty of winter!

Cancellation Policy: Events are rain/snow or shine. Participants must be prepared for expected weather and may be turned away if not for their safety. Up to date information is available by calling the Mississippi River Visitor Center at 651-293-0200 (business hours apply).