Most People Don’t Realize An Underground River Flows Right Through Minnesota

Minnesota has many beautiful – and often mysterious – attractions. From the strange story of the Kensington Runestone to the newly solved mystery of the Devil’s Kettle, this state is full of unique places to see. One of Minnesota’s most beautiful hidden treasures is actually underground.

In southern Minnesota, the Root River ambles its way east from Chatfield, to meet the Mississippi River. But along the way, it dips below ground to become a subterranean river with otherworldly beauty. Luckily for Minnesotans, we can visit the underground river at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park. Take a look:

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The Root River flows through a beautiful part of southeastern Minnesota. From Chatfield, it flows east 80 miles until it meets the Mississippi River. Navin75/Flickr It passes alongside the jagged bluffs of the Driftless Area, offering visitors who travel along the Root River Trail a breathtaking view. Wikimedia Commons The river's flow is gentle with moderate drops along its length. This makes it a popular spot for canoeing. MPCA Photos/Flickr The river's South Branch is equally beautiful. It flows south, eventually going underground in Preston. The area now contains Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park. MPCA Photos/Flickr Mystery Cave is Minnesota's longest cave. Several different tours take visitors alongside the interesting underground formations, including stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors may even run into bats. The Greater Southwestern Exploration Company/Flickr During your tour, it's possible to hear the water of the South Branch of the Root River flowing into the cave. It's a fascinating experience that shows just how complex this cave system is. MN Photos/Flickr Of course, the main attraction of the tour is the beautiful, still pool known as Turquoise Lake. It's not part of the river, but it shows just how much water flows through the Mystery Cave. Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park When the South Branch of the Root River finally resurfaces above ground, its temperature is around 48 degrees Fahrenheit. Having been cooled by the conditions underground, it is now a perfect spot for trout fishing. Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park

Have you ever visited the state park that contains this underground river? Let us know what you thought! If you love exploring Minnesota’s off-the-beaten-track spots, also check out this list of 7 mysterious, unusual spots in Minnesota that you never knew existed.