Mississippi River: Fort Snelling to Hastings

Location East Central Minnesota; Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington Counties DNR Parks and Trails Central Regional Office (651) 259-5841

• From Fort Snelling to Hastings, spectacular bluffs meet thick bottom land trees as the river winds its way past development areas. Wakes from large boat traffic should not be taken broadside. Even though the river is wide, the current can be deceptively swift. Use caution in approaching the shore. Paddlers should watch for dams and know which side to portage or lock through. Stay close to the shore as you prepare to get out or enter a lock. So not cross the river above dams. The river varies in width from one-tenth mile below Fort Snelling to two miles above Lock and Dam 2 at Spring Lake.
• Tell me more about this river's landscape, wildlife, and history.
• No major rapids - River rapids ratings.