Minnesota is loaded with waterfalls. On the northern tip of Minnesota rests her tallest waterfall. The High Falls of the Pigeon River is a masterpiece! The hike is short and the views stunning at Grand Portage State Park.
Distance: 1 mile Type: Out and back Level: Easy Terrain: Paved/Boardwalk Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash. Time to go: All year Fees:$7 day pass or $35 state park pass
**Note: There are no camping areas at Grand Portage State Park. If you’re interested in camping nearby, try Cascade Falls or George Crosby Manitou.
Parking
Oh Canada! The other side of Pigeon River is Canada. If fact, the parking area is just one left turn before the border. So, if you’ve hit Canada, you’ve gone too far.
The parking area is petite, but we didn’t have trouble finding a spot. The parking area is also close enough to the visitors center and picnic area to bring a lunch and make a day of it.
Visitors Center
Stop in at the visitor’s center before or after your hike to check out the history of the area and Native American information. It’s worth the stop to see the displays. The area is rich in voyager history and Ojibwe culture, also check out Grand Portage National Monument.
Trail Head
The trail starts right at the visitor’s center. The easy to follow and well marked trail with lead the way. Don’t forget to check out the overlook at the beginning of the trail. It’s intriguing to watch the river become more wild the farther upstream you hike.
Terrain
The path to the High Falls is paved, making it stroller and wheel chair friendly. Continuing on the trail to the Middle Falls, however, is not paved and is considered to be a difficult trail.
Given that we had two 10 week old puppies with us, we didn’t tackle the trail to Middle Falls. An adventure for another time, after the dogs gain more experience and stamina.
Pigeon River Banks
Take a side quest on the riverbanks of the Pigeon River. The rocky shore and mini-cascades are worth the pitstop. There are a few turnoffs along the trail. Watch your step and keep little ones in hand. There are no hand rails along the rivers edge once you get down to the shore.
We had a fun time hopping on rocks and exploring the river. The current is strong and water murky, keep kids (and puppies) in sight.
Boardwalk and Steps
Where the pavement ends, the boardwalk begins. All the way up to the falls is wheel chair and stroller accessible. There are a couple of spots with steps for a more grand view of the falls.
The Falls
Stunning!! I am always amazed by waterfall views. Listen to the rushing water before peering over the deck at this cascade. Be mindful of the railings and follow guidelines. Don’t make your attempt at a great picture the last thing you do.
Waterfalls on the Way
Don’t drive all the way to the tip of Minnesota to see just one waterfall! Hit the falls of the North Shore on the way!
Venture down to the southeastern tip of Minnesota to Beaver Creek Valley State Park. This whimsical park features an amazing spring fed river with clear waters and trout galore. The trails wind around the valley offering stunning views of the lush hillside and streams.
I was amazed by Minnesota’s bluff country. The dramatic landscapes are amazing. It really proves that Minnesota is beautiful no matter which corner you venture to. It’s not just the North Shore that’s worth a visit.
Hiking Trails & Spring Views
This southern state park hosts only 8 miles of hiking trails. Most of which are contained in the 6+ mile Hiking Club trail. This trail encompasses Beaver Creek Trail, Hole in the Rock Trail, Big Spring Trail, and West Rim Trail. Beaver Creek Valley Trail is the top trail at the park.
Beaver Creek Valley Trail- 3.5 mile loop Plateau Rock Trail-1 mile out & back Hole in the Rock Trail- 1 mile one way Big Spring Trail- .25 miles one way West Rim Trail- 1 mile one way
All of these trails have some kind of river view or creek view. Some of the creeks dry up later in spring and into summer. The river flowing after the spring keeps flowing. Be sure to check out Big Spring Trail for the most tranquil spot in the park, the spring that feeds the river.
Fish for Trout
Fly fisherman enjoy this tranquil stream on a calm morning for fishing brown and brook trout. We are fisherman, but we don’t fly fish. That’s okay, you don’t have to be proficient in fly fishing in order to catch a trout at Beaver Creek. We used our regular fishing rods and some enticing lures. That did the trick!
Combine trout fishing with a hike along the Beaver Creek Valley Trail. There are numerous fishing holes along the way. The largest being at the end of the farthest loop.
Fishing License: All fisherman over the age of 16 must have a fishing license in the state of Minnesota. If you’re fishing in waters with trout, a trout stamp is required.
Camp
Tent, RV, or Hammock! This park has a few options for camping. From an RV area with closer campsites to cart in sites with more tree coverage between, you can choose your seclusion level at Beaver Creek. Sites 27, 34, 38,39, and 42 can accommodate a hammock given the tree size and distance apart. Many of the campsites are near the creek. The sounds of the babbling waters will lull you to sleep… or make you need to visit the restroom.
Birding & Wildlife
Rare migratory birds pass through and nest in the park during the summer months like the warbler and water thrush. Keep a watchful eye while hiking the trails. Wildlife is abundant in Beaver Creek Valley. We watched several deer just off of the trail, spotted several amphibians, numerous birds and an abundant level of trout.
Shrooms and Wildflowers
Don’t rush through these trails. Really slow down and take a look around. These woods are loaded with little treats throughout. There were so many mushrooms on fallen and standing trees. Many were larger than my hand. Wild flowers litter the park in every part, both high and low ground. It’s absolutely stunning to see. We visited in mid-spring, when the flowers are starting to bloom.
Visitor’s Center
At the entrance of the park, the park office includes a petite section of educational items. There are a number of mounted animals, including a timber rattler. It’s a great stop with the kids to check out the local wildlife situation and get a visual what kinds of animals they should be watching for. The rangers also have helpful tips for fishing this area.
Playground
The playground is just off of the main park road on the way to the camping area. Sitting beside the creek, the playground is the perfect spot to romp around and cool off in the cool spring fed waters. If your goal is to play on the park, be sure to hit it early before the sun heats up the metal elements of the equipment.
Just look at that slide, you know that’s burned some cheeks. I can feel the sizzle from my childhood just looking at it. Good times.
Summer is back!! Get your summer bucket list out and ready for some amazing adventures! Make the most of the short Midwest summer and pack as much fun in our 3 warm months of the year.
Camp at a MN State Park
Pitch a tent or park the camper at a Minnesota state park for a summer night in the woods or on the prairie. The Minnesota State Park system has a wide array of camping options to suit all of it’s wilderness lovers. Everything from campground living to densely forested solitude. I prefer the latter. Here are a few options to help narrow down your search:
Hit the trails! Minnesota has no shortage of trails to choose from. Strap on your hiking boots for a winding adventure through Minnesota’s trail system. Trails are scattered all over the state. Minnesota has everything from thru-hike trails to day trip trails. The options are endless but here are a few to get your wheels turning:
Thru-Hike Trails:
Paul Bunyan State Trail (115 miles- Bemidji to Baxter
Superior Hiking Trail (300+ miles- Duluth to Canadian Border)
Minnesota isn’t just 10,000 lakes, she hosts 100+ waterfalls as well. Go chasing waterfalls this summer and soak in their beauty. There are numerous waterfalls along the North Shore of Lake Superior, but there are also falls in other areas of the state. Read on in Waterfalls to See This Summer for more ideas on where to start your chase.
Find your solitude on an unforgettable wilderness experience in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area and Wilderness. One trip to this pristine wilderness will have you craving it’s beauty every summer. We make at least one trip to BWCA every summer. If you’ve been, then you know what I mean. If you’re new and looking for an adventure try Larch Creek to Clove Lake. Clove Lake is a great lake for beginners who want the whole wilderness experience with a short distance to travel.
Paddle Board
Rent a paddle board at a state park or bring your own and enjoy the smooth waters of a summer afternoon. There are twelve state parks in Minnesota that offer paddle board rentals. The going rate is about $10 per hour. Itasca’s rental is through Itasca Sports for $20 per hour or $100 per day.
State Parks offering paddleboard rentals:
Bear Head Lake State Park
Big Bog State Recreation Area
Camden State Park
Glacial Lakes State Park
Glendalough State Park
Itasca State Park *
Lake Shetek State Park
McCarthy Beach State Park
Myre Big Island State Park
Sakatah Lake State Park
Scenic State Park
Split Rock Creek State Park
Stay in a Camper Cabin
Camper cabins are available year-round at Minnesota state parks, but summer means more availability. Some cabins close during the winter due to lack of insulation and heat. During the summer months, all cabins are open and available for reservations. If camping isn’t your style, but you still want to be in the great outdoors, check out these camper cabins for a weekend getaway. Book them asap, they fill up fast!
Visit an Overlook
Climb high above the tree tops on an observation tower or high overlook. For a state that doesn’t have any real mountain peaks, there are some pretty amazing overlooks! Check a few of these off of your list this summer and challenge yourself to climb a fire tower. It’s way more exhilarating than it looks.
Fish For Trout
Southeastern Minnesota is a great area to fish for trout. Get your feet wet in the chilly spring-fed streams where the brown and brook trout make their home. These state parks are known for their awesome fishing streams.
Bring your canoe or kayak on one of Minnesota’s scenic water trails for an overnight camping adventure or day trip. Rent a canoe at a state park for a day. If you’re unfamiliar with canoeing or kayaking, learn how with Minnesota’s “I Can” programs.
State water trails are a great way to see the beautiful natural scenery of Minnesota from the water. Pick a state water trail and launch your canoe/kayak. Here’s a tip, park one vehicle at your designated end point and have someone drop you and your watercraft off at your starting point. This way, you won’t have to paddle against the current to get back to your vehicle. (Don’t miss your exit point!!)
There are numerous state parks offering canoe/kayak rentals across the state. Here are a few great ones to check out:
Bear Head Lake State Park
Glacial Lakes State Park
William O’Brien State Park
Lake Maria State Park
Lake Bemidji State Park
Crow Wing State Park
So many more can be found on the DNR website here…
Berry Picking
Mid-July and early August are peak blueberry times in Minnesota. July is National Blueberry Month, but the season still goes on a couple of weeks into August. Make a day of it by picking blueberries and making blueberry jam, blueberry pie, or toss some in a pancake!
You Pick Blueberry Locations (Check before you go, some locations may be closed for the season)
Visit the MN Arboretum in Chaska, MN. From spring to autumn this everchanging landscape is beautiful to see. With many different facets to the park, there is something for everyone. My grandma enjoys the tulips and other flowers of spring, while I enjoy the maples and evergreens.
Fun Fact: My grandma spent some of her childhood on a farm that is now part of the Arboretum. The house still sits just outside of the borders on the backside of the property. Her family tapped the maples in the park for syrup and they would guide the cows across the road to pasture. When we visit the park, we have our own personal tour guide and get to hear stories of the area from before the U of M Arboretum owned it.
Bike a Railroad Trail
Old railroads turned bike path are the best and easiest places to bike. They are smooth and surrounded by scenic places. The longer trails pass through towns offering a great chance to stop for lunch or an ice cream treat.
MN State Bike Railroad Trails:
Willard Munger (70 miles- Duluth to Hinkley)
Paul Bunyan (115 miles- Bemidji to Baxter)
Root River (42 miles- Fountain to Houston)
Heartland (27 miles- Park Rapids to Walker)
Cannon Falls (20 miles- Red Wing to Cannon Falls)
Visit a Splash Pad
You’ll likely hit the beach a few times this summer. Mix it up and find a splash pad for the kids. Splash pads are popping up all over the place as the new summer fun activity. Some are free, some have a small fee.
Go chasing waterfalls this summer! It’s no surprise that Minnesota is littered with waterfalls all across the state given her reputation for 10,000 lakes. Search far and wide to find your favorite waterfall in Minnesota. Here are a few of our favorites to get you started.
North Shore
Many of Minnesota’s waterfalls are found cascading towards Lake Superior on the North Shore. This makes for a wild getaway weekend of chasing waterfalls all along the stretch of Hwy 61.
Jay Cooke SP
Cross the swinging bridge over the St. Louis River in Jay Cooke state park for phenomenal views of the roaring rapids. The rapids are not tall, but they are wild. The rocky edges on the far side of the bridge give visitors an up close view of the raging river. The hiking trails following the river offer more views of the rock formations jutting out of the river waters.
Warning: Keep kids in hand, do not let them out of your site. The river is powerful and full of rock. The edges of the rocks drop straight into the river. Small children should be held or kept in hand.
Gooseberry is my daughter’s favorite state park. The falls are entertaining all year round. We stop in, at least once, every year. Summer is her favorite time of year to visit, it offers rock hopping at the base of the lower falls.
Park Fees: No Fees Location: Two Harbors, MN
Falls Loop Trail Distance: 1 Mile Type: Loop Terrain: Paved, steps, dirt, boardwalk/bridge Difficulty: Easy Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash
Warning: Be cautious with little ones on the trail. Erosion has caused some of the trails to cave in and slide down. Follow signage for alternative routes and keep small children in hand.
Tettegouche SP
Tettegouche State Park saved us from a disastrous attempt at making it to the Boundary Waters one year in an Accidental Camping Trip. Even though it wasn’t the camping trip we were planning, it turned out to be it’s own adventure. Tettegouche has some of the best scenery in the state. You can’t beat the cliff viewing above Lake Superior, skipping rocks at the mouth of the Baptism River, or the jaw dropping majesty of the High Falls. Tettegouche is a must-see state park for every Minnesotan.
Park Fees: $7 Day Pass or purchase a year-round pass for $35 Location: Silver Bay, MN
High Falls Trail (Two Step Falls can also be seen from this trail) Distance: 3 miles Type: Out & Back Terrain: Dirt/Boardwalk Difficulty: Moderate Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash
Temperance River SP
The Temperance River winds through the forest and rocky ledges of Temperance River State Park. This river has carved it’s path into the stone and through the forest to reach the massive Lake Superior. It’s astonishing to see this river flow. The surrounding hikes are wild with their stone steps and the unique terrain it takes to traverse your way to get a glimpse of the falls passing through it’s gorge.
Park Fees: $7 Day Pass or purchase a year-round pass for $35 Location: Silver Bay, MN
Gorge Trail Distance: .25 miles Type: Out & Back Terrain: Dirt, rock, steps Difficulty: Moderate Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash
Upper Falls Trail Distance: 2 miles Type: Out & Back Terrain: Dirt, rock, steps Difficulty: Moderate Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash
Cascade River SP
The Cascades are absolutely breathtaking. My daughters favorite falls of MN might be Gooseberry, but mine have to the Cascades at Cascade River SP. They wind down to rocks racing toward Lake Superior in such a majestic fashion.
Park Fees: $7 Day Pass or purchase a year-round pass for $35 Location: Lutsen, MN
Cascade River Lower Loop Distance: 1 Mile Type: Loop Terrain: Dirt/Boardwalk Difficulty: Easy (may be slippery in some areas) Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash
Grand Portage Sp
Minnesota’s tallest waterfall roars from the Pigeon River between Minnesota and Canada. Grand Portage isn’t just a cool waterfall spot. The state park shares so much history about the area and contains a lot of cultural information to be absorbed by it’s visitors. The falls can be views from two hikes with two very different terrains.
Park Fees: $7 Day Pass or purchase a year-round pass for $35 (totally worth it) Location: Grand Portage, MN (almost into Canada)
High Falls Distance: 1 Mile Type: Out & Back Terrain: Paved Difficulty: Easy Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash
Middle Falls Distance: 4.5 miles Type: Needle Loop Terrain: Dirt trail, rocky, sometimes slick, drastic elevation change. Difficulty: Strenuous Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash.
Johnson Falls
This waterfall takes a lot more planning, energy, and perseverance to reach. Johnson Falls resides inside the borders of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area & Wilderness. It’s one of the coolest BWCA adventures I’ve been on. If you’re up to tackling the task of visiting this waterfall check out the adventure here.
Southern Minnesota
Not every waterfall trip requires a visit to the North Shore. Check out these southern beauties and explore their astounding surroundings.
Nerstrand Big woods SP
Search for the hidden falls along the Prairie Creek. Along the way, view the rare dwarf trout lily. It only grows in this state park in Minnesota. There are some areas of the trails that are board walked and marked off with a rope. This is to ensure that hikers don’t tread on the rare flower, destroying it’s limited habitat.
Park Fees: $7 Day Pass or purchase a year-round pass for $35 Location: Nearstand, MN
Hidden Falls Trail Distance: 1 mile Type: Loop Terrain: Dirt trail/boardwalk with stairs Difficulty: Easy Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash. Keep pets on trail to protect rare lily.
Pipestone National Monument
This culturally packed trail leads to one of the coolest spots in southern Minnesota. Hiking to Winnewissa Falls is such a whimsical experience. The falls seem so out of place and are absolutely gorgeous!
Park Fees: No Fees Location: Pipestone, MN
Circle Trail Distance: 3/4 mile Type: Loop Terrain: Paved Difficulty: Easy Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash.
Bonus Parks: The Pipestone area has two state parks nearby that are worth a visit: Blue Mounds & Split Rock Creek. We bundled these state parks into our Pipestone adventure for a full weekend of outdoor fun.
Minneopa
Camping, hiking, history, and bison….. Yes, BISON!! Not only does Minneopa have an amazing two-step falls with a spout hurdling it’s way down to a pool and creek, it also has a herd of bison. This park is split into two section. One side holds the tranquil waterfalls and peaceful picnic area. The other has hiking trails and a herd of bison in a 325 acre encloser that visitors can drive right through.
Park Fees: $7 Day Pass or purchase a year-round pass for $35 Location: Mankato, MN
Water Falls Hike Distance: 1/3 mile Type: Out & Back Terrain: Paved Difficulty: Easy Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash.
Our Minneopa adventure has my daughter asking to go back every year now.
If you’re looking for more than just waterfalls, head over to Things to do this Summer in Minnesota. You’ll find ideas to add to your summer bucket list.
