Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

9700 170th Street East Nerstrand, MN 55053

Hiking Club Trail Description

During this hike, you’ll see the maple/basswood forest that is the largest remaining stand of the Big Woods in Minnesota. Pick up Hidden Falls Trail behind the visitor center. Follow the self-guided interpretive trail as it wraps around the campground and descends to Hidden Falls, past the endangered Minnesota dwarf trout lily, a spring wildflower found only in Rice, Goodhue and Steele counties. Cross Prairie Creek and go uphill through the tall tree canopy and open understory of Beaver Trail. Turn onto White Oak Trail, crossing Oak Bridge. Look for the white oaks as you climb uphill. The trail turns east, crossing a bridge and walkway over ravines formed by melting glaciers more than 10,000 years ago. It concludes at the picnic parking area. In the spring, the park is carpeted with wildflowers; in summer, it’s a canopy of green. Fall brings a burst of red, orange and gold. In winter, look for ice formations at Hidden Falls.

State Park Video

Hike Length (miles):

2.2

Park Map

DNR Resources

State Park Website