Minnesota may be the Land of 10,000 Lakes, but there is more to our beautiful state than water. In fact, Minnesota has millions of acres of forest that cover more than 30 percent of our land according to the National Forest Service. Knowing this, it should come as no surprise that many of Minnesota’s most beautiful hikes are through the woods. In Taylors Falls, Minnesota, one particularly beautiful trail cuts through the forest and along the side of some impressive sandstone bluffs. If you’re looking for a good hike in a beautiful area, look no further than the Sandstone Bluffs Trail. Here’s what you’ll find along the way:

The Sandstone Bluffs Trail is a 0.9-mile trek through the woods near Taylors Falls, Minnesota. It is a loop trail with a moderate difficulty rating thanks to the hundreds of stair steps along the route.

Tricia G/AllTrails

The loop will take you through the forest near the St. Croix River. There are several other great trails in the area, each worth exploring. Interstate State Park is also nearby.

Tricia G/AllTrails

As you walk, you’ll slowly ascent above the river bottom. Some areas are steep, so step with caution. The shady forest makes this a good hike for any time of day or year.

Ben Hoese/AllTrails

Soon, you will encounter a long row of sandstone bluffs. These natural bluffs rise high over the ground and are riddled with nooks and crannies. Many have carved their name into the soft stone.

Shannon Honeyford/AllTrails

Look closely and you’ll see the thousands of layers that make up this rock. Sediments were deposited over millions of years and pressed into the rock that is here today.

Ben Hoese/AllTrails

Continue climbing and you’ll come across the stairs we mentioned before. There are no rest areas along the path, but this is a moderately trafficked loop. You likely won’t encounter too many other hikers, so feel free to take your time.

Tricia G/AllTrails

At the top of the bluff, there is a beautiful view above the ground. Through the trees, you can see the St. Croix River in the distance!

Tricia G/AllTrails

If you’re looking for a great hike with beautiful views, the Sandstone Bluffs Hike might be the one for you! For other forest hikes in Minnesota, take a look at our article about Shadow Falls, a secret waterfall in St. Paul.

Tricia G/AllTrails

Ben Hoese/AllTrails

Shannon Honeyford/AllTrails

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Address: Taylors Falls, MN 55084, USA