mississippi headwaters

Was in the area so we decided to walk across The Mississippi. This area is well developed with handicap accessibility. The welcome center gives a history of the area and information on the river, ecology, wildlife, etc., etc..It's a short walk to the headwater whee the are rocks to walk across the river. Beautiful area.

Well worth the stop to see the river and the lake. The walk is easy and the views are incredible. I am sure most of it is wheelchair accessible and my husband had no problem walking with his cane.

Maybe I'm just lucky, a short ride from Bemidji...don't miss this small town either(Woolen Mills and Paul Bunyon/Babe)...is this quiet State Park, biking trails, camping, an Inn, lakes, historical sites AND the well explained controversies on 'who's definition is correct' on the starting place of the Mississippi. Great exhibits on the area's history at one center and more at the actual site. You, and quite a few, more can actually walk across the rocks that bridge the the lake exit/river's start, should you feel adventurous take off your boots, hike up your jeans and wade it. If you're a history buff don't miss this one.Seems quite a lot of this watershed was once cut for lumber. I find it humorous that the person credited with finding the starting point was led there by indigenous peoples, it was their hunting grounds. Ethnocentrism at it's best.

We biked along the paved bike trail from Douglas Lodge to get here, along Lake Itasca. Nice and friendly cafe nearby was perfect, not overly-touristy. Kids loved walking over rocks spanning the river's origin.

First visiting for me and it really makes my day. I am so happy that I have a nice opportunity to visit here before I die. The state park here is very big and it is really beautiful. If you love nature, let come here... You will love it like I do. The water of the Mississippi River is quite clear. Only one problem here is mosquito, so don't forget to take mosquito repellent before taking an adventure here. Moreover, there are many cute chipmunks. This beautiful Mississippi Headwater really impresses me. It is also unforgettable experience for me.

Located inside the Itasca Lake State Park (which we reviewed separately). A neat woo-hoo thing to do!!!

My family loves to visit Itasca State Park and the Mississippi Headwaters. It is so fun to walk across the headwaters and know how far that water will travel! This is a great attraction for kids and individuals of all ages. So beautiful and peaceful! Wonderfully maintained park and spaces.

Visiting the Headwaters of the Mississippi is a fun time for the entire family and a great photo opp. We had 13 family members hold hands across across the mightiest river in America! The kids had fun swimming in the lake while the adults learned about how the river was formed and it's history.

The headwaters of the Mississippi is something that every Minnesotan should experience. It was amazing how that little creek turns into a large flowing body of water.

A special place. The beginning of the Mississippi River. You can walk across the rocks between the River and the Lake or in the water as it heads toward the Gulf. The cafe offers decent food and the gift shop particularly well-stocked. The highlight is just to stand in the Mississippi at its source.

I came here to walk across the headwaters some 20+ years ago and ever since have always had this memory to talk about. Today I took my son here to take the walk on the rocks then walk in the water on the return. Now he can have the memory and an interesting story to tell for years to come.

Since we live in St. Louis (where the Mississipi is huge), seeing the start of the Mississippi was a must while we were in Minnesota. The park did an excellent job making it an educational experience with all of the information presented as well. I would suggest bringing a towel in case your kids slide off the rocks and get their shorts all wet like one of mine did.

The first few steps are a bit slippery... but then it's just a blast. The kids had a great time playing in the MISSISSIPPI, and the adults were having fun re-enacting their past. It's a great place to make memories!

I decided to take off my shoes to cross the headwaters. I think that was the right decision. The rocks were slippery, but the gravel was sharp. It was a long-term good experience. I have pictures to prove it

Easy walk to the headwaters from the visitors center. We heeded warnings for Mosquito spray - but bugs weren't bad at all, even though no wind. Flat path and no problem walking even with sore knees. Visitor center at east entrance great for kids and interesting for adults. Daily park fee is $5. Bike trails available, camping etc - but check with park services or their website as some trails were under construction when we were there. Those that were open were amazing (paved and wide).