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United States
Minnesota
Rice County

Cannon River Wilderness Park

The best waterfall hikes and walks in Cannon River Wilderness Park

5.0

(10)

92

hikers

Waterfall hiking trails in Cannon River Wilderness Park traverse a diverse landscape characterized by forests, riverbanks, and varied topography along the Cannon River. The park features forested hills, ravines, and riverbottom forests, with some areas offering steep bluffs and sheer cliffs. Hikers can explore unique habitats including savannas, fens, and small prairies on rocky outcroppings. The elevation changes are generally moderate, with hills under 100 meters.

Best waterfall hiking trails in Cannon River Wilderness Park

  • The most popular waterfall hiking…

Last updated: May 12, 2026

5.0

(3)

40

hikers

#1.

Playgrounds and picnic area – Hidden Falls loop from Hidden Falls

4.09km

01:08

80m

80m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

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Tips from the Community

tcbscott
April 14, 2026, Amphitheater

Small amphitheater built off the parking lot

2

0

tcbscott
December 15, 2025, Park Office

Buy your park permit, book your camping trip, and visit with the nice rangers.

1

0

Multiple play areas and a picnic shelter with restrooms

1

0

tcbscott
October 31, 2024, Hidden Falls

Great to see all year round. It is definitely the most busy place in the park, but well worth stopping down to see it. I especially enjoy going there a few times in the winter to see the falls frozen up. I see some nice pictures of it frozen in this collection.

1

0

Prairie Creek flows over Hidden Falls as it winds its way through Nearstrand Big Woods State Park. There are many hiking trails in the park that lead to this scenic spot.

2

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many waterfall hiking trails are there in Cannon River Wilderness Park?

Cannon River Wilderness Park features a selection of waterfall hiking trails, with at least three distinct routes available for exploration. These trails primarily focus on the park's notable Hidden Falls.

What kind of waterfalls can I expect to see in Cannon River Wilderness Park?

The park is home to Hidden Falls, a key natural feature that gives the waterfall trails their name. While not a large, thundering cascade, it offers a picturesque natural spectacle within the park's diverse landscape of forests and riverbanks.

Are there any loop trails that include waterfalls?

Yes, all the featured waterfall trails in Cannon River Wilderness Park are loop routes. For example, you can enjoy the Playgrounds and picnic area – Hidden Falls loop from Hidden Falls, which is 2.5 miles long, or the shorter Hidden Falls loop from Hidden Falls, at 1.0 mile.

What is the difficulty level of waterfall hikes in the park?

The waterfall hikes in Cannon River Wilderness Park are generally considered easy. They feature gentle elevation changes through forested areas, making them accessible for a wide range of hikers. The park's trail network is designed to accommodate various skill levels, with these waterfall routes being on the less strenuous side.

Is Cannon River Wilderness Park suitable for families with children?

Absolutely. The easy difficulty of the waterfall trails, such as the Hidden Falls loop from Hidden Falls, makes them ideal for families. The park also offers picnic areas with shelters and diverse natural environments for children to explore.

Are dogs allowed on the waterfall trails?

While the guide data does not specify the exact dog policy for the waterfall trails, Cannon River Wilderness Park is generally known for being dog-friendly. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and follow park regulations to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors and protect wildlife.

Where can I park when visiting the waterfall trails?

The park is well-equipped for visitors, and parking areas are typically available near trailheads. For specific waterfall trails like those starting from Hidden Falls, designated parking facilities are usually provided to ensure convenient access.

What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls in Cannon River Wilderness Park?

Spring is an excellent time to visit, as the park comes alive with spectacular wildflower displays, and the varied habitats support abundant wildlife, making it great for birdwatching. The flow of the waterfalls can also be more robust during this season due to snowmelt and spring rains. However, the park offers year-round recreation, including snowshoeing in winter.

What other natural features or wildlife might I encounter on the trails?

Beyond the waterfalls, the park boasts diverse landscapes including forests, riverbanks, hills, ravines, bluffs, and unique habitats like savannas and fens. You might spot various wildlife, especially during spring, and enjoy rich plant life, including floodplain forests and vibrant wildflowers like Marsh Marigolds and Bloodroot.

Are there any interesting landmarks or points of interest near the waterfall trails?

Yes, along the trails, you might encounter interesting features such as a Staircase with a rope railing, or historical sites like the Henry Fisk Cabin Site. The park also features an iconic wood beam footbridge spanning the Cannon River, offering picturesque views.

What do other hikers say about the waterfall trails in Cannon River Wilderness Park?

The waterfall trails in Cannon River Wilderness Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the park's diverse terrain, the beauty of Hidden Falls, and the well-maintained, easy-to-navigate paths that wind through forests and along the river.

Can I go camping in Cannon River Wilderness Park?

Yes, for those wishing to immerse themselves deeper in nature, Cannon River Wilderness Park provides four primitive campsites. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering a rustic overnight experience within the park's natural beauty.

Is there public transport available to Cannon River Wilderness Park?

Information regarding public transport directly to Cannon River Wilderness Park is not readily available. Visitors typically access the park by private vehicle. For detailed information on reaching the park, it is advisable to consult local transport services or the official Rice County website.

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