Day Trips from St. Cloud
← All St. Cloud day tripsDay Trips from St. Cloud: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of St. Cloud, MN. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
7 waterfalls near St. Cloud
Amnicon Falls State Park
South Range, WI 54874
Just 2 hrs 41 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.8 stars by 2,089 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Willow Falls
WI 54016, USA
Just 1 hr 35 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.8 stars by 778 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Big Manitou Falls
Superior, WI 54880
Just 2 hrs 20 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.8 stars by 411 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Willow River State Park
Hudson, WI 54016
Just 1 hr 35 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.7 stars by 4,221 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hidden Falls
Nerstrand, MN 55053
Just 2 hrs 3 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.7 stars by 455 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Hidden Falls Regional Park
St Paul, MN 55116
Just 1 hr 20 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.6 stars by 1,410 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Big Spring Falls
Sandstone, MN 55072
Just 1 hr 28 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.6 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from St. Cloud
What are the best waterfalls near St. Cloud, MN?
The best waterfalls near St. Cloud range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near St. Cloud?
Some waterfalls near St. Cloud have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near St. Cloud?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near St. Cloud are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near St. Cloud?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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