Ashlyn Hayes
Minnesota’s North Shore is a remarkable display of natural beauty, and its state parks are the pinnacle.
I was born and raised in Minnesota, and as a hiker and avid waterfall chaser I have been to the Minnesota North Shore countless times throughout my life.
I believe state parks are an incredible, often underutilized resource that give us a chance to explore and learn from nature. They offer unique spaces to unwind, hike, or simply enjoy the outdoors, bringing us closer to the natural world. We’re lucky to have access to these beautiful areas, and they’re full of opportunities to experience and learn from nature in a hands-on way.
This article covers the best State Parks on the Minnesota North Shore and some insight about why I love them so much!
Table of Contents
Map of The Best Minnesota North Shore State Parks
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Often called the gateway to the North Shore, Gooseberry Falls State Park is located just 40 miles northeast of Duluth, making it an easily accessible first stop on your Minnesota North Shore State Parks adventure.
The park’s main attraction is its spectacular waterfalls. The Lower and Middle Falls are easily reached via a short, paved trail, making them accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities. The sight of water cascading over ancient lava rock is truly mesmerizing, and walking out to the river and balancing on the rocks provides endless entertainment for both kids and adults.
For those looking for a bit more adventure, the Falls Loop Trail is highly recommended. This 2-mile trail offers stunning views of all five waterfalls in the park. Crossing the footbridge over the rushing Gooseberry River is an exhilarating experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Don’t overlook the park’s visitor center, which offers interactive exhibits about the area’s geology and history. It’s a great place to learn about the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) that built many of the park’s iconic structures in the 1930s.
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Tettegouche State Park
Continuing up the North Shore, we come to Tettegouche State Park, a place that truly showcases the raw beauty of Minnesota’s North Shore. This park offers a perfect mix of scenic vistas and outdoor activities.
The park’s crown jewel is High Falls on the Baptism River, which at 60 feet high, is the tallest waterfall entirely within Minnesota’s borders. The hike to High Falls is moderately challenging but well worth the effort for the impressive views.
For those seeking a bird’s eye view of Lake Superior, the hike up to Shovel Point is a must. The trail can be steep in places, but the panoramic views from the top are simply breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see for miles along the coastline.
Tettegouche is also home to several inland lakes, perfect for a peaceful canoe ride. Spending an afternoon paddling on Mic Mac Lake, surrounded by the park’s lush forests, is a serene experience that shouldn’t be missed.
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Temperance River State Park
As we continue northeast, we come to my personal favorite of the Minnesota North Shore State Parks- Temperance River State Park. This park stands out among North Shore parks due to its unique geology and dramatic river gorge.
The Temperance River has carved deep, twisting gorges into the ancient volcanic rock, creating a series of rapids and waterfalls that are truly a sight to behold. The Hidden Falls trail is a popular choice – it’s relatively short but offers plenty of excitement as you navigate alongside the rushing river.
For beach lovers, Temperance River State Park doesn’t disappoint. The park’s Lake Superior shoreline is a mix of smooth pebbles and pink rhyolite bedrock, perfect for skipping stones or simply soaking in the vast expanse of the world’s largest freshwater lake.
The portion of the river that flows into the lake is often calm and suitable for swimming (always check before you go). As kids we loved riding the gentle current from the river down into Lake Superior.
This park is often less crowded than some of the more popular North Shore destinations. The campground here is relatively small, which adds to its charm and tranquility.
Cascade River State Park
As we continue our journey up the Minnesota North Shore, we come to Cascade River State Park, a hidden gem that’s worth discovering.
The park’s namesake, the Cascade River, tumbles down a series of waterfalls as it makes its final descent to Lake Superior. The half-mile loop trail from the highway is perfect for families with young children, offering several viewing platforms to admire the cascades.
For more adventurous hikers, the trail to Lookout Mountain is a must. It’s a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forest from the top are simply spectacular.
In the fall, Cascade River State Park becomes a kaleidoscope of colors. The mix of maple, birch, and aspen trees creates a stunning display of reds, oranges, and yellows, typically peaking in late September or early October.
Grand Portage State Park
Our Minnesota North Shore State Parks journey culminates at Grand Portage State Park, located right at the Canadian border. This park is cooperatively managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, adding cultural significance to its natural beauty.
The star attraction here is the High Falls of the Pigeon River, which at 120 feet is the highest waterfall in Minnesota. The half-mile trail to the falls is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it a great option for visitors of all abilities.
Take time to learn about the rich cultural history of this area. The park’s name comes from the 8.5-mile Grand Portage trail that indigenous people and fur traders used to bypass the rapids and waterfalls of the Pigeon River. While the full trail is no longer accessible, you can walk a short section of it near the park’s visitor center.
Need a Custom Minnesota North Shore State Parks Itinerary?
These five state parks along Minnesota’s North Shore offer a diverse range of experiences, from easily accessible waterfalls to challenging hikes with rewarding views. Each park offers something for every age and ability level, showcasing the natural beauty Minnesota has to offer.
After you visit, you’ll understand why North Shore Minnesota is so beloved by residents and visitors alike. A trip “up north” is so refreshing for the body and spirit.
Looking for more Minnesota travel inspiration? Check out these other articles:
North Shore Minnesota: 3-Day Duluth to Grand Marais Guide
Minnesota North Shore: Exploring the Lake Superior coast in Every Season
Resorts on Lake Superior North Shore: Top Getaways
And these other Midwest articles:
Western Wisconsin State Parks: Discover Enchanting Fall Foliage
Custer State Park Wildlife Loop: Adventure in the Black Hills
Top Things to Do in Black Hills South Dakota for Families
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If you liked this article, please leave a comment! And if you have been to the North Shore, tell me which park is your favorite!
