{"id":12213,"date":"2024-01-29T07:35:12","date_gmt":"2024-01-29T06:35:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/?p=12213"},"modified":"2024-01-29T07:35:12","modified_gmt":"2024-01-29T06:35:12","slug":"what-is-the-only-natural-waterfall-on-the-mississippi-river","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/what-is-the-only-natural-waterfall-on-the-mississippi-river\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is The Only Natural Waterfall On The Mississippi River"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Chutes Landing is the only naturally occurring waterfall on the mighty Mississippi River. It is located on the Minnesota–Wisconsin border on the Chippewa River, which is a tributary of the Mississippi.<\/p>\n

The Chippewa River’s watershed is heavily used as a naturally run system, with several dams and a hydroelectric generator spread along it. The terrain of the watershed includes rugged hillsides, deep ravines, and flat plains. The area is a popular destination for recreation, especially fishing.<\/p>\n

Chutes Landing Waterfall is roughly 12 feet in height but is unusual in that it is the only natural waterfall on the mainstem of the Mississippi River. It is situated amid rapids, and the rushing water gives the whole area a unique feel as it cascades over the rocks.<\/p>\n

The waterfall is also a reminder of the area’s geologic history. It is located in what used to be an ancient glacial riverbed, which is now part of the Mississippi River’s mainstem. The Chippewa River has helped shape the river’s course over the centuries. The rapid current of the river eventually caused the rocks at Chutes Landing to form into a waterfall.<\/p>\n