The Headwaters and end of the Mighty Mississippi.

The Mississippi River is the longest river in the United States, and is the 4th longest in the world. The Headwaters of the Mississippi is located in Itasca, MN and the end if it is 100 miles down stream from New Orleans at the Gulf of Mexico. One of my favorite places to go hiking at is Itasca State park. It has numerous biking and hiking paths to enjoy starting at their different entrances, North, East, West, and South. But if hiking isn’t your favorite pastime and you want to just see the headwaters and swim, go through the North entrance and it is just a short walk. Itasca is also home to Minnesota’s largest tree, which is just a short walk from the Headwaters. The tree is a red pine and is nine feet in diameter and is over 120 feet tall. If you are looking for an affordable, quite, nature filled getaway but done want to stay in a tent, don’t own or want to rent a camper/RV; not to worry, Itasca State park has many lodges you can stay at that are very affordable. I have been to the end of the Mississippi as well but unfortunately I was about a year to 1 1/2 years old when my family went to the Gulf of Mexico, but I do plan on going back again someday, hopefully soon, and when I do, I will make sure to share the trip. I do highly recommend going to both places though, it is of course family friendly, very affordable, perfect for a break from the city, and can make for a fun date.