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The Mississippi River

Established in 1988, the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area includes 72 miles of the Mississippi River stretching from the cities of Dayton and Ramsey to just south of Hastings. [map]

The segment of the river flowing through the park has always been of major significance as a spiritual site, a place for recreation, and a tourist attraction.

 
Bike with a Ranger

Bike with a Ranger

Join ranger led bike rides with stops along the way to learn about our National Park on the Mississippi River. Explore trails and discover amazing stories of the river.
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Mississippi River Trail Guide

Mississippi River Trail Guide

Looking for a place to walk or bike along the Mississippi River? The Mississippi River Trail Guide offers easy to use maps and site information on areas along the Mississippi River from the city of Anoka to Hastings.
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Eagle Survey

Eagle Survey

In 1782 the Second Continental Congress of the United States chose the majestic and proud bald eagle as our national symbol. However, by 1963 the bald eagle population was in severe decline due to DDT and other human activities. Fortunately, the bald eagle population has made a tremendous recovery. Find out more about how eagles are surveyed and how that relates to their health, and the overall health of the Mississippi River.
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Places to Go

Attractions Near the Mississippi River

Within the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area corridor there are many parks, visitor centers, and interesting places to visit intimately tied to the Mississippi River. Browse our listing of sites and find out all you need to know to plan your visit.
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Write to

111 East Kellogg Blvd.
Suite 105
Saint Paul, MN 55101

E-mail Us

Phone

Headquarters
(651) 290-4160

Visitor Center
(651) 293-0200

Fax

(651) 290-3214

Climate

Minnesota is known for its extremes in temperature. Winter days can sometimes get no warmer that -10 degrees F. Summer days can reach 100 degrees F. But it is a rare day that people are kept indoors because of the weather. A wide variety of recreational opportunities can be found throughout the park in any season. Plan to dress in layers, and be prepared for mosquitoes during the warm seasons.
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A slow and shallow section of Itaska.  

Did You Know?
At the headwaters of the Mississippi, the average surface speed of the water is 1.2 miles per hour. People typically walk 3 miles per hour.

Last Updated: August 06, 2008 at 12:31 EST