John A. Latsch State Park
Mount Charity Trail
Trail Overview
Region
Southeast
Difficulty
Difficult
Trail Distance
0.5 miles (one way)
Estimated Hike Duration
20 – 30 minutes uphill
Elevation Gain
500 ft (mostly via steep stone stairs)
Best Season To Visit
Fall for panoramic colors
A Steep Climb to Spectacular Views
Photo of State Park entrance is courtesy of jonathunder via Wikimedia Commons (CC Attribution - Share Alike 3.0 Unported).
The Mount Charity Trail is short but intense — a half-mile stair-style ascent to one of Minnesota’s most rewarding views. Rising quickly through oak forest, the trail ends at a rock ledge overlooking the Mississippi River Valley.
Despite its length, the trail demands stamina — expect a steady uphill climb and many steps. However, the panoramic view from the summit makes every step worth it.
On clear days, you can see for miles down the Mississippi River corridor — a scene of eagles, bluffs, and rolling hills that define Southeast Minnesota’s beauty.
Badge for this hike:
Trailhead location
