IN SOUTHEAST MINNESOTA _ Home to steep bluffs and pastoral valleys, this picturesque region of the state often takes second billing to the lakes and piney woods of "Up North" Minnesota. But the southeast is no less beautiful or enchanting. Its oaks and aspens, basswoods, maples and elms are as inspiring as any northern coniferous forest.
Plus _ and it's a big plus _ the southeast is a geologic spectacle that boasts a latticework of cold-water rivers, streams and creeks that bend beautifully through welcoming state parks. Last week, at times dodging summer thunderstorms, I revisited three of these parks, fly rod in hand: Forestville/Mystery Cave, Beaver Creek Valley and Whitewater. Here's a guide to each, whether you drive southeast to fish, camp, wildlife watch or simply tour a part of the state that will draw you back again and again.
