Chimney Rock overlook at Whitewater State Park

Whitewater State Park

Chimney Rock Trail

Trail Overview

Region

Southeast

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Distance

1.4 miles (round trip)

Estimated Hike Duration

45 minutes - 1 hour

Elevation Gain

Steep bluff climbs

Best Season To Visit

Spring through fall

Bluffs, Valleys, and Views

Photo of overlook at Whitewater State Park is courtesy of Tony Webster via Wikimedia Commons (CC Attribution - Share Alike 2.0 Generic).

The Chimney Rock Trail climbs the steep bluffs of Whitewater State Park, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the Whitewater River Valley and its distinctive limestone formations.

Along the way, interpretive signs describe the park’s glacial and geological history, highlighting how the unique landscape was carved over thousands of years.

Expect some very challenging uphill sections but also some of the most iconic scenic overlooks in all of southern Minnesota.

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Trailhead location

Trailhead map preview for Chimney Rock Trail
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