Minnesota’s Own Version of the Loch Ness Monster?

There are over 11,000 lakes in the great state of Minnesota, and each one has its own history and lore. However, one of the state's most visited bodies of water also has a mysterious legend that has captured the imaginations of locals in the area for generations.

Nestled between the bluffs of southeastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin, Lake Pepin is a scenic widening of the Mississippi River known for its beauty, historic significance, and… a mysterious creature?

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Meet "Pepie," the Local Legend of Lake Pepin

Often described as a large, serpent-like creature, Pepie has been likened to Scotland’s Loch Ness Monster. Sightings of Pepie date back centuries, with early Dakota legends referencing strange creatures in the lake’s waters. European settlers began reporting encounters in the late 1800s, and stories persist today. Witnesses often describe seeing a humped, dark figure moving just beneath the lake’s surface, just like its cousin in across the pond in Scotland.

Skeptics suggest that large sturgeons, some reaching lengths of up to six feet, may explain the phenomenon and Pepi doesn't actually exist. Others point to waves and boat wakes creating illusions on the water. But for believers, the mystery remains unsolved.

The mystery of Pepi has even sparked tourism. Local businesses offer “Pepie hunting” boat tours and a standing $50,000 reward exists for anyone who can provide concrete evidence of the creature. Despite technological advancements like sonar and underwater cameras, Pepie has managed to elude capture and not a single shred of real proof has been brought forth.

Beyond the legend, Lake Pepin has plenty to offer: it’s the birthplace of water skiing and a favorite spot for fishing and boating. But for many visitors, the thrill of spotting Pepie is the real draw. Whether fact or fiction, the legend of Pepie adds a layer of intrigue to an already amazing destination, inviting all who visit to peer into the depths and wonder what might be lurking below.

Story Sources: Cryptid Wiki Website, The Daily Yonder Website, Visit Lake City Website