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Ellsworth Rock Gardens

Voyageurs NP, Minnesota

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Ellsworth Rock Gardens was created by Jack Ellsworth, a Chicago contractor, who spent his summers from 1944 to 1965 constructing over 200 intricate rock sculptures and terraced flower beds.

The gardens feature over 13,000 rocks, meticulously arranged to form unique sculptures and structures.

The gardens are located within the boundaries of Voyageurs National Park, making them a unique blend of art and nature.

The gardens are home to over 60 varieties of flowers, which were carefully planted to complement the rock sculptures.

After Jack Ellsworth stopped maintaining the gardens in the 1960s, they fell into disrepair until restoration efforts began in the 1990s.

The National Park Service, along with volunteers, has been working to restore and preserve the gardens since the 1990s, ensuring their beauty for future generations.

Visitors must take a boat to reach the gardens, adding an element of adventure to the experience.

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