The state of Minnesota is home to 87 counties. Besides, it is also noted for having various historical counties. On 27 October 1849, a total of nine counties were introduced to the state, namely Dahkotah, Benton, Ramsey, Itasca, Pembina, Mahkahta, Washington, Wabasha, and Wahnata. Among these, Itasca, Ramsey, Benton, Dakota, Wabasha, and Washington retain their initial names. However, the county of Pembina lost its existence with the introduction of the Kittson County on 9 March 1878. When Minnesota was declared as a state, there existed only fifty seven counties. In 1923, the Lake of the Woods County was the last to be added to this state. Most of the counties derive their names from the ancient history of exploration. More than ten counties derive their names from the different Native American associations of the state while fifteen counties got their names from the geographical features of Minnesota. The remaining counties got their names from the politicians of this state. Some of the prominent counties of Minnesota are as follows: Benton County: One of the initial nine counties introduced in 1849 by the territorial legislature, the Benton County recorded an approximate population of 38,351 as the 2010 census records. When formed, the county was about forty miles in width and hundred miles in length. However, between 1856 and 1860 it was cut short to its current size. Its county seat lies in Foley. Benton got its name from Thomas Hart Benton; a renowned senator of Missouri, who actively participated to introduce the Homestead Act. The major attractions of this county are Sports Arena East, Sauk Rapids; Municipal Athletic Complex, St. Cloud; National Hockey Center, St. Cloud; Whitney Senior Center, St. Cloud; Paramount Theatre and Arts District, St. Cloud; Munsinger/Clemens Gardens, St. Cloud. The county as well as its encompassing region provides various educational opportunities. Besides public schools, Benton also houses various private elementary schools and post secondary institutions. The major colleges and universities in Benton are College of St. Benedict, St. Cloud Technical College, St. John's University, St. Cloud State University, Rasmussen College, Regency Beauty Academy, and Model College of Hair Design. Aitkin County: Located in the North Central region of Minnesota, Aitkin County was established in 1857 and Aitkin city is its county seat. The county is home to more than 400 lakes that lure boaters, anglers as well as others who are in love with lakes. The population of lake lovers triples during the summer months. Moreover, the county also attracts hikers, walkers, ATV riders, and bikers. On the other hand, those willing to tour this county during the winters can look for some exciting snowmobiling and fishing activities. In short, it makes a good choice for vacationers, both in the winter and summer months. Kittson County: Located on the northwestern side of Minnesota, the county was established in 1878. The county seat of Kittson is Hallock. The county is further subdivided into four watershed districts, three school districts, nine cities, four unorganized townships, and 26 organized townships. The adjacent counties, include Roseau County, Walsh County, Marshall County, and Pembina County. The western region of the Kittson County, which is a part of the Red River Valley is noted for producing wheat, soybeans, canola, sunflowers, barley, and sugarbeets in large amounts while the eastern end carves a niche for its wildlife population. Among the major attractions of this county one cannot certainly miss the Lake Bronson State Park, which was created during the Work Projects Administration (WPA) days, the most ambitious and biggest American New Deal Agency. The county houses various bird species, such as Snow, Sandhill Crane, Marbled Godwit, migrating Swans, various owl species, Bald Eagle, Hungarian Partridge, Cormorant, several shore birds, and upland species. The other attractions that are worth visiting, include Aggasiz National Wildlife Refuge, Kittson County Museum, etc. The county also offers a wealth of educational centers, including Kittson Central, Lancaster School, and Tri-County School. Lake of the Woods County: This is the youngest county of the state and was introduced on 28 November, 1922. A voting took place among the area residents at this point of time and as an outcome the northern townships were detached from Beltrami County. With Baudette as its county seat, the county initiated its operations officially on 1 January 1923. As per the 2010 census records, Lake of the Woods County held an approximate population of 4,045. The county makes a good choice for those interested in forest explorations, fishing, and hunting. WBSR200814 Source: factfinder.census.gov

The state of Minnesota is located within the coordinates 46.0° N, 94.0° W. It shares its northern borders with Ontario and Manitoba of the Canada, its eastern border with Wisconsin and Michigan, its southern border with Iowa, and its western border with North Dakota and South Dakota. Minnesota is spread over a total geographical area of 84,402 square miles, which includes 79,548 square miles of total land area and 1,874 square miles of total inland water area. Its highest point is Eagle Mountain, at an altitude of 2,301 feet. The lowest point is Lake Superior, at 601 feet. The total length of Minnesota's borders is 1,783 miles.

General Features Minnesota is part of the region in the United State known as the Upper Midwest. The state is bordered by Canada on the north; Iowa on the south, Lake Superior and Wisconsin on the east, and by North and South Dakota on the west. Minnesota is the twelfth-largest state covering an area of 86,943 square miles. Most of the landscape of Minnesota comprises gently rolling plains that are formed when glaciers move over the area. This area has fertile soil and has many rich farmlands in the United States. Northern part of Minnesota is made up of rugged terrain. The northeast section consists of many rocky ridges and deep lakes. However, the area lying north of Lake Superior is the roughest and most isolated. Eagle Mountain, the highest point in Minnesota, is located north of Lake Superior. The southeastern section of the state, along the Mississippi River, is relatively flat, cut by deep valleys that are created by fast flowing rivers and streams. The southwestern Minnesota has thick deposits of sand, gravel, and clay. There are many streams that make the area fit for cultivation. Geographical Facts About Minnesota Climate of Minnesota Minnesota has a continental climate marked by cold winters and hot summers. The highest temperature recorded in Minnesota is 46°C; this was registered on July 6, 1936 at Moorhead. The lowest temperature ( '51 °C) in Minnesota was recorded on February 2, 1996 at Tower. The state is prone to severe weather conditions like blizzards, thunderstorms, hail, derechos, tornadoes, and high-velocity straight-line winds. Mountains Minnesota has many high mountain peaks and summits. Eagle Mountain is the highest peak followed by Lima Mountain, Brule Mountain, and Pine Mountain. Rivers Minnesota River, Mississippi River, Rainy River, Red River of the North, St. Croix River are the major rivers found in Minnesota. The other rivers include: Lakes There are a number of lakes in Minnesota and hence the state is known as the Land of 10000 Lakes. Almost all the counties in the state has at least one natural lake. The major lakes in Minnesota are:

Airports in Minnesota There are 156 airports in Minnesota that the public can use. The airports in Minnesota see huge traffic annually as this "Land of 10,000 Lakes" is a popular destination. The Minnesota airports are among the most convenient to use and provide a comfortable traveling experience. The international airports in Minnesota include : Duluth International Airport at Duluth, the Falls International Airport at International Falls, the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport at Minneapolis, and the Rochester International Airport at Rochester. General aviation airports include Baudette International Airport at Baudette and the Warroad International Airport at Warroad. The Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is one of the busiest airports in Minnesota and serves almost 35 million passengers a year. The airport is also a haven for technology, offering all the technological conveniences that a traveling businessperson might need. The airport also contains ATMs, foreign currency exchange counters, locker facilities, and wireless Internet, shops, restaurants, and play areas for children. Travelers can count on friendly service and special assistance for the elderly or disabled. Airlines operating from this airport include: Xtra Airways, Midwest Airlines, AirTran Airways, Air Canada, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Icelandair, Continental Airlines, Skywest Airlines, United Airlines, Champion Air, American West, US Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and Miami Air International. The tickets to these airlines can be booked online and sometimes discounts are available for booking online. The other important airports in Minnesota can be found at Thief River Falls, Crookston, Bemidji, Hibbing, Grand Rapids, Grand Marais, Fergus Falls, Alexandria, St. Cloud, Benson, Willmar, Redwood Falls, Faribault, New Ulm, Mankato, Owatonna, Rochester, Austin, Jackson, Fairmont, and Worthington.

The state has 87 counties. The state capital is Saint Paul while Minneapolis is the largest city in Minnesota. Minneapolis' broadway scene and Saint Paul's laid-back charm make these Twin cities a major cultural and economical center in the Midwestern US. The Minnesota State Fair in Falcon Heights is the among the largest state fairs in the US. Lapped by the Lake Superior, the city of Duluth bills itself as “The San Francisco of the North.” Globally renowned Mayo Clinic is headquartered in Rochester. Bloomington houses the largest shopping mall in the country, Mall of America. A bedroom community, Brooklyn Park features the Edinburgh USA Golf Course. Plymouth, Maple Grove, Woodbury, and St. Cloud are other major cities in Minnesota. Getting In and Around Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) and Duluth International Airport (DLH) serve the state. Amtrak's Empire Builder passenger train passes through the state. Interstate Highways I-35, I-90, and I-94 and U.S. highways traverse the state.

The topography, politically significant areas, roads, railway routes, and cities are all highlighted on the Minnesota Map. St. Paul is the capital city of Minnesota and is clearly marked. Towns like Fairmont, Benson, Roseau, Pine City, Glenwood, Ely, Anoka, Graceville, Sauk Center, Austin, Owatonna and several others are indicated, as well. The state of Minnesota is located on the western front of north-central United States. Wisconsin, South Dakota, Canada, North Dakota and Iowa, all nearby, are also shown on the map. The 132,250 miles of roadways are displayed on the map, as are the railway routes.

Duluth is a city in the U.S state of Minnesota. The city was occupied by the Native American tribes for over thousands years. It forms a single metropolitan area along with Superior Wisconsin and are together called the Twin Ports. The city has become the regional hub for the surrounding areas. It is also the county seat of St. Louis County. Hotels: The mouth-watering delicacies, comfy rooms and well-maintained surroundings are the features of Duluth hotels. The superb services offered by these hotels give a home away from home feeling to its customers. South Pier Inn On the Canal, Comfort Suites Canal Park, Hampton Inn, The Inn On Lake Superior, Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Duluth North, Days Inn, Hawthorn Suites, Voyageur Lakewalk Inn, Americinn Hotel & Suites, Best Western Edgewater East, Fairfield Inn , Comfort Inn West, Super 8 Motel, Radisson Hotel Duluth-Harborview, Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites, Downtown Waterfront, Travelodge Spirit Mountain/Duluth, Chalet Motel, Motel 6 and Canal Park Inn are some of the best-known hotels in the city. Transportation: Duluth International Airport is the main airport that serves the city. The city, which has a well-planned rail system, operates a number of trains that connect the city with other regions. The local bus service helps people travel from one place to another inside the city.Greyhound Lines that handles inter-city bus service is another means to access the city. Highways, expressways and bridges constitute the wide road network of the city. It is also major transportation center for the transshipment of coal, taconite, and agricultural products. Climate: The atmospheric condition of the City of Duluth is denoted by its forms of climatic changes. These forms include Yearly Snowfall of 77.6 inches, Yearly rainfall of 30.0 Inches, Standard highest temperature of 77.1°F (July), Standard lowest temperature of -2.2°F (January ). Places to Visit: Aerial Lift Bridge, Canal Park, Central Hillside, Downtown Duluth East Hillside, Park Point, the Great Lakes Aquarium- the only freshwater aquarium in America, Glensheen Estate, Superior National Forest, Lakewalk, Spirit Mountain, Hermit Island, Lake Superior Maritime Museum, Lake Superior Railroad Museum, Rose Garden at Leif Ericson Park, Lake Superior Zoo and Apostle Islands are the main highlights of the city.

The Minnesota Golf Courses Map indicates the geographical location of several golf clubs present in the state. Such cities as St. Paul, Minneapolis, Maple Plain, Chaska, Maplewood, Hopkins, Detroit Lakes, Saint Cloud, Alexandria, Hastings, Rochester, Stillwater, and Duluth are marked. The golf clubs of Minnesota state are divided into two categories – private and public. Some of the public golf courses of Minnesota state include: Some of the privately owned golf courses in Minnesota are: Lost Spur golf course at Eagan Emerald Greens golf course at Hastings Dahlgreen golf course at Chaska Stillwater country Club at Stillwater Dellwood Hills golf club at Dellwood North Oaks golf club at North Oaks Northland Country Club at Duluth Rochester Golf & Country club at Rochester Hazeltine National Golf Club at Chaska Bearpath Golf & Country Club at Eden Prairie Lafayette Country Club at Minnetonka Beach Inver Wood golf course at Inver Grove, Keeler golf course at Maplweood, Meadowbrook golf course at Hopkins, Valleywood golf course at Apple Valley, and Stoneridge golf club at Stillwater are other oft-visited golf locations in Minnesota.

The 5,680 miles of railway tracks of Minnesota connect the near and far cities of the state. The Minnesota Rail Map highlights prime locations such as Minneapolis, Benson, Duluth, Winona, Mankato, St. Cloud, Moorhead, and St. Paul, all of which are served by an extensive network of trains. Amtrak is one of the main railway service providers and offers regular trains to many parts of the state. The Amtrak-Empire Builder is one such train which passes through Minnesota. Minnesota is serviced by a number of railroad systems. The railways of Minnesota are categorized into class one, class two, class three, and excursion, railroads. Some of the class I railroad facilitators include Union Pacific Railroad, BNSF Railroad, Canadian National, and Canadian Pacific Rail. The class II railroads of Minnesota are comprised of Wisconsin Central, Duluth, Missabe & Iron Range (DMIR), Iowa, Chicago & Eastern (ICE), Duluth, and Dakota, Minnesota & Eastern (DME). Red River Valley & Western, St. Croix Railroad, North Shore Scenic on SLLX, and Minnesota Prairie Line are all Class III railroad organizations. The mining, private, and excursion railroads of Minnesota include City of Duluth, North Shore Mining and Minnesota Zephyr Ltd.

Physical Map of Minnesota Minnesota is located in the Upper Midwest and the Great Lakes regions of the United States. Covering about 87,014 square miles, it is the 12th largest state in the US. With an exception of few dramatic landscapes, much of the state is a gently rolling peneplain. The Northwest Angle in Minnesota is the only place north of the 49th parallel in the contiguous United States. Eagle Mountain, at 2,301 feet (701 meter) is the highest point in the state and it is only 13 miles from the 183-m elevation of Lake Superior. Two continental divides converge in northeastern Minnesota, which is characterized as the Arrowhead region. It includes the North Shore and the Boundary Waters. The North Woods is a heavily forested region that spans most of the state. The state's nickname – The Land of 10,000 Lakes – is not an exaggeration as there are more than 11,500 named lakes over 10 acres in size. Also, the state is dotted with roughly 10.6 million acres of wetlands. There are 6,564 natural rivers and streams in Minnesota. The headwaters of Mississippi River are located in Itasca State Park. The river flows about 680 miles in the state before crossing into Iowa. The Mississippi River marks the state's southeastern border. The Red River Valley extends across the northwestern Minnesota. The river drains toward Hudson Bay in northwestern portion of the state. Southwestern Minnesota features the Buffalo Ridge region with an elevation of more than 600 meters. Due to its high altitude, it produces large amount of alternative energy.

The Minnesota river map offers a comprehensive overview of the several rivers, streams, and lakes flowing across the state. The Rainy River, Mississippi River, St. Croix River, and Red River are some of the more prominent rivers of the state. However, the Mississippi River, Kettle River, Rum River, St. Croix River, North Fork Crow River, Minnesota River, and Cannon River are known for their natural beauty and have been recognized as the Wild and Scenic Rivers of Minnesota. The rivers of Minnesota are a favorite with tourists, providing ample opportunities for swimming or water sports. The Mississippi flows across St. Cloud to the Anoka region. The Kettle River, one of the wild and scenic Minnesota rivers, flows through Pine County. The Rum River of Minnesota drains the counties of Isanti, Mille Lacs, Anoka and Sherburne. The North Fork Crow River flows through the County of Meeker. The state's namesake river, the Minnesota River, flows across Lac Oui Parle Dam to the Franklin area. The stretch from the Faribault area to the Mississippi River is connected by the Cannon River. Notable lakes include the Lower Red Lake, Vermillion Lake, Lake Superior, Lake Pepin and Upper Red Lake.

Map of Minnesota with Universities and Colleges