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Mississippi National River and Recreation AreaCanoers enjoying a trip down the Mississippi River in the fall.
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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.

Park Video (wmv)

 
Freddie the Flathead Catfish

Junior Ranger Program

The Junior Ranger Program of the Mississippi River is a great way for young people to have fun while exploring and learning about the Mississippi River and making a connection to the river.
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Bike with a Ranger

Bike with a Ranger

This summer we will offer rides every Saturday morning, June through September. Four additional Thursday evening rides will be on June 5, 19 and July 3, 17. The Thursday ride is a little faster ride with fewer stops, more hills and includes travel on some city streets.
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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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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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Lock and Dam Number 1 from a long distance.  

Did You Know?
At Lake Itasca, the elevation of the Mississippi River is 1,475 feet above sea level. It drops to sea level at the Gulf of Mexico. More than half of that drop occurs within the state of Minnesota.

Last Updated: September 22, 2008 at 15:57 EST