The two largest rivers in the state—Mississippi and Minnesota— converge in Fort Snelling State Park and form Pike Island where visitors can enjoy a hiking trail through the flood plain. This park protects both the ecology and historic significance of this unique place. Located adjacent to the international airport and sandwiched between busy highways, this park is also the most urban-influenced state park in Minnesota.

Most of the parks’ visitors make use of the northern part of the park with it’s looping hiking trails, swimming beach and visitor center. A whole other part of the park exists that visitors may want to make use of with its 6-mile trail along the Minnesota River. One of the best ways to access this trail is at the Historic Sibley House in Mendota.