Minnesota is a gorgeous northern state known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.” These lakes characterize the state of Minnesota and draw visitors to take in beautiful views and lake life culture. There is so much to discover about Minnesota lakes. Learn more about Minnesota’s defining lakes with these five facts.
5 Minnesota Lakes Geographical Facts
1. Minnesota has the fewest fatal boating accidents. (Source)
Despite ample opportunities for boating, Minnesota is the safest state in terms of boating fatalities. Strong safety laws and lots of experienced captains help Minnesotans avoid terrible accidents.
2. There are only four counties with no natural lakes. (Source)
You can find a lake in every county in Minnesota except for Mower, Olmstead, Pipestone, and Rock Counties. The state has over ten acres of lakes, which number over 10,000 in total.
3. Minnesota has over 90,000 miles of shoreline. (Source)
Minnesota’s 11,842 lakes provide over 90,000 miles of shoreline, which is more than California, Florida, and Hawaii combined.
4. Minnesota’s National Park is the largest water-based park in the country. (Source)
Voyageurs National Park is the largest one focusing on water. It displays the best of Minnesota’s lakes and rivers. The waters of Minnesota flow in three directions: North to Canada, East to the Atlantic Ocean, and South to the Gulf of Mexico.
5. Many of Minnesota’s lakes were created by glaciers. (Source)
The movement of glaciers across Minnesota during the Ice Age lodged colossal ice chunks in the soil. When these chunks eventually melted, glacial lakes formed in their place. The craters created are called “kettles.”
Photo by Tom Fisk. Image was resized.
