Minneopa Falls

Private Property: Open (with restrictions) MORE INFO >>> Climbing in Mankato is currently operating under a don't ask don't tell policy. It is imperative that climbers in Mankato keep an incredibly low profile at every destination entered. Keeping climbing areas open and conserving the climbing environment Pass Required MORE INFO >>> Make sure you check with rangers before climbing the falls. You do not need a special permit but they appreciate it if you let them know you plan to climb. You will also need a MN state parks pass. Keeping climbing areas open and conserving the climbing environment

The falls in late February. What a contrast to wh...

Description 

The Minneopa Falls are a gem of the Mankato area. While there is no rock climbing in Mankato other than bouldering, these falls definitely give a viable and satisfying alternative during the winter months. Most residents of Mankato have been to the falls but they are almost never climbed.

Spectators are not uncommon as there is a perfect view of the falls from the railing on the sidewalk above. That said, the park is typically not very busy.

Getting There 

Take 169 south out of Mankato for about 2 or 3 miles and follow the signs to Minneopa Falls. Once you turn right off of 169, keep going straight and eventually take a left into the park.

To get to the actual falls just follow the signs from the parking lot. Once you are to the bridge keep following the sidewalk and walk down the long set of stairs. From here you will need to follow the river or walk along side it to get to the base of the falls.

The Classics

Featured Route For Minneopa Falls

Melting Point WI3+  MN : Mankato Area (Mankato) : Minneopa Falls

This is what it's all about. As you hack your way up this behemoth you will have ice flying in your face from some brittle spots but you will also find some very solid ice to dig into with your axes and battle your way to the top. If you climb this while it's snowing out it is really beautiful.The structure of this waterfall will vary almost every time you see it. It typically thaws and refreezes numerous times over the course of the Minnesota...[more]   Browse More Classics in MN

Photos of Minneopa Falls Slideshow

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The waterfall in its "pillar form" in early Januar...

These falls change a lot over the course of the wi...