In Albany, Minn., a blend of local characters, family roots and close ties to the rolling fields formed the backdrop to Garrison Keillor's famed tales of Lake Wobegon. More people climb Mt. Everest each year than visit the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Staff writer Jim Buchta headed north to see it for himself. The largest valley is the Mississippi River Valley, which reaches its widest spot at Lake Pepin. Frontenac and Great River Bluffs state parks, plus several city parks, offer scenic overlooks for Mississipppi River views.
Autumn brings beautiful fall colors and roadside apple stands.
Click here to visit the featured destination. This week's Fishing Hot Spot is the city of Nisswa where numbers of walleye, northern pike, bass and crappies are being taken. For statewide information, click here . It lets you create convenient, personal itineraries you can view, print, and e-mail to others. Try searching Minnesota's lodging and camping database, powered by the Minnesota Office of Tourism.