Whitewater

© 2020, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources MAP AND GUIDE: WHITEWATER STATE PARK 19041 HIGHWAY 74 ALTURA, MN 55910 507-312-2300 • WINONA COUNTY WHITEWATER.STATEPARK@STATE.MN.US VISITOR TIPS • Wear hiking shoes (not flip flops). • Trail crossings and steps may be slippery, use caution. • There are cliffs, keep small children close. • Check for wood and black- legged ticks. • Watch for poison ivy and wild parsnip. • Find Wi-Fi at the visitor center. • In an emergency call 911. • Non-emergency sheriff’s number: 507-457-6368. ONLY HAVE AN HOUR? • Hike Chimney Rock Trail for a scenic view of the Whitewater River, or take the Meadow Trail for a more accessible hike surrounded by dramatic bluffs. • Relax at the beach for a refreshing dip in the cold, spring-fed water. • Visit the historic Elba Fire Tower (more information at front desk). LOOKING FOR MORE TO EXPLORE DURING YOUR STAY? VISIT MNDNR.GOV/WHITEWATER SO EVERYONE CAN ENJOY THE PARK... ABOUT THE PARK Established in 1919, the park protects one of the most scenic sections of the historic Whitewater Valley. Rare geology in this unglaciated Driftless Area supports diverse ecosystems, dramatic landscapes and unique recreational opportunities. Much of the park was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps and the Works Progress Administration as a result of the Great Depression. Today, the park welcomes over 250,000 visitors each year and serves as a gateway and information center for the nearby 27,000-acre Whitewater Wildlife Management Area. An active Friends Group helps support many park projects and activities. A FULL SET OF STATE PARK RULES AND REGULATIONS IS AVAILABLE AT MNDNR.GOV. PARK OPEN 8 a.m.–10 p.m. daily. VEHICLE PERMITS Permits required; purchase at park office or entrance kiosk. PETS WELCOME The timber rattlesnake is a threatened bluffland species sometimes seen in the park in late summer. Report sightings to the park office. TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS − CAMPGROUND QUIET HOURS 10 p.m.– 8 a.m.; only registered campers may be in campground during quiet hours. FIREWOOD Chimney Rock Trail 0.7-mile loop Steep and hilly • Over 100 stairs • Bare rock • Packed dirt Hike up a bluff to visit the famous Chimney Rock and watch turkey vultures and eagles soaring while anglers pursue trout on the middle branch of the Whitewater River below. Dakota Trail 4.2-mile loop Steep and hilly • Over 200 stairs • Bare rock • Packed dirt The bluffs and valleys on this rigorous trail are a favorite of scouts, cross country runners and wilderness backpackers. Inspiration Point Trail Steep and hilly • Over 100 stairs • Bare rock • Packed dirt Witness a pre-settlement vista free from any signs of civilization. 1.2 miles one-way Trout Run Creek Trail 2 miles one-way Flat • Wooden Bridges • Packed dirt Enjoy spring wildflowers, the serenity of Trout Run Creek, and a variety of migrating songbirds. MORE TO EXPLORE AT THE PARK • Enjoy a free naturalist program. • Swim at the beach. • Rent snowshoes and explore off trail. Keep on leash; pick up after; attend at all times; not allowed in buildings or beaches. • Borrow a GPS unit or birding kit from the park office. • Take home a souvenir from the gift shop. • Trout fish year-round within the park. Must be purchased at this park or from vendors who sell wood approved for this park; no gathering firewood in the park. BE OUR GUEST Reserve a cabin, campsite or the group center. Go to mndnr.gov/reservations. CURIOUS ABOUT THE WHITEWATER RIVER STATE WATER TRAIL? VISIT MNDNR.GOV/WATERTRAILS MORE INFORMATION Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Information Center 500 Lafayette Rd. St. Paul, MN 55155-4040 888-646-6367 mndnr.gov/parks The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This information may be available in alternative format upon request.