McGrath MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near McGrath, Minnesota.
1. Shire in the Woods
PEACEFUL NATURAL RETREAT
Shire in the Woods offers visitors a chance to enjoy wooded solitude on private trails within McGrath. Visitors can hike in the nearby Solana State Forest or meditate while walking the property's Labyrinth. The retreat also provides opportunities for campfires and quiet contemplation in a natural setting.
2. The Swimming Hole
REFRESHING OUTDOOR DESTINATION
The Swimming Hole is a natural water feature in McGrath where visitors can cool off during warmer months. A small dock provides easy access to the water, and there are interesting areas to explore for those who prefer to stay dry. Located at 14044 220th Street, this attraction offers a quintessential Minnesota outdoor experience.
3. Solana State Forest
VAST WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
Solana State Forest provides extensive hiking opportunities near McGrath with trails winding through pristine Minnesota woodland. Outdoor enthusiasts can experience the diversity of flora and fauna native to this northern region. The forest offers seasonal activities including hiking, wildlife viewing, and possibly winter sports like cross-country skiing.
4. McGrath Historical Site
LOCAL HERITAGE DISPLAY
The McGrath Historical Site preserves the legacy of this town founded by logger James E. McGrath who donated 40 acres for the town site in 1907. Visitors can learn about the area's logging history and how the town evolved from being initially platted as Elmwood to being renamed McGrath in 1908. The site also highlights McGrath as the birthplace of Leonard Shoen, the founder of U-Haul Corporation.
5. Snake River
SCENIC WATERWAY ADVENTURE
The Snake River flows near McGrath and offers excellent opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Historically significant as a major logging route, the river was the site of James E. McGrath's 17 logging camps. Today, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the peaceful waterway while appreciating its role in the region's development.
6. Chesley Brook
TRANQUIL WATER FEATURE
Chesley Brook is a picturesque waterway near McGrath with historical significance to the area's logging industry. Visitors can enjoy fishing, nature photography, or simply taking in the peaceful surroundings. The brook was once part of James E. McGrath's logging operations in the late 19th century.
7. McGrath Labyrinth
MEDITATIVE WALKING PATH
The Labyrinth at Shire in the Woods offers visitors a unique meditative walking experience in McGrath. This contemplative path allows guests to quiet their minds while enjoying the natural surroundings. The careful design creates a peaceful journey that many find both calming and rejuvenating.
8. Williams Township Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION AREA
Williams Township Park serves the McGrath community as a local gathering place for outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy typical park amenities while experiencing the charm of small-town Minnesota. The park reflects the community spirit of McGrath, which was incorporated as a village in 1923.
9. Farm Animal Experience
RURAL ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS
The Farm Animal Experience at Shire in the Woods allows visitors to interact with various farm animals in a peaceful rural setting. Guests can learn about agricultural practices while enjoying the company of friendly animals. This hands-on attraction provides an authentic glimpse into Minnesota's farming heritage.
10. McGrath Camping Grounds
RUSTIC OUTDOOR ACCOMMODATION
McGrath Camping Grounds offer visitors a chance to stay overnight in the beautiful natural surroundings of the area. Campers can enjoy campfires under the stars and wake up to the sounds of nature. The camping experience connects guests with the same wilderness that attracted loggers like James E. McGrath to the region over a century ago.
11. UHaul Founder Memorial
ENTREPRENEURIAL HISTORY LANDMARK
The UHaul Founder Memorial honors Leonard Shoen, who was born in McGrath and went on to create the UHaul Corporation. Visitors can learn about the humble beginnings of this entrepreneurial success story. This site celebrates one of McGrath's most notable natives and his impact on American business.
12. McGrath Community Events
LOCAL CULTURAL CELEBRATIONS
McGrath Community Events bring together locals and visitors throughout the year for various cultural and seasonal celebrations. These gatherings showcase the town's community spirit and often highlight local history and traditions. Visitors can experience authentic small-town Minnesota culture through these regularly scheduled events.
13. McGrath Biking Trails
SCENIC CYCLING ROUTES
McGrath Biking Trails offer cyclists routes through the beautiful natural landscapes surrounding the town. Riders can experience varying levels of difficulty while taking in views of forests, waterways, and open countryside. These trails provide an active way to explore the same terrain that has defined this region since its founding.
14. Patterson Land Company Site
TOWN FOUNDING LOCATION
The Patterson Land Company Site marks where the company platted the original town as Elmwood before it was renamed McGrath. Visitors can learn about the early development of the settlement and the transition from logging camp to established community. This historical point of interest provides context for understanding McGrath's origins and growth.
15. McGrath Post Office
HISTORIC TOWN LANDMARK
The McGrath Post Office stands as a symbol of the town's official establishment in 1908 when the community received its current name. This historic building represents an important milestone in McGrath's development from logging outpost to incorporated village. Visitors can appreciate this physical connection to the town's founding era while learning about rural postal service.