Best Minnesota waterfalls
Minnesota Waterfalls on the North Shore
FROM LAKE SUPERIOR TO THE BOUNDARY WATERS
Minnesota waterfalls on the North Shore of Lake Superior to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area are some of the most scenic falls in the state. Although most falls lie within Lake County’s four state parks, a handful of hidden gems exist.
Did you know that Lake County contains more than 12 waterfalls– the most of any county in Minnesota? Of course, many sightseers are familiar with Gooseberry Falls and the High Falls in Tettegouche State Park; however, that’s just scratching the surface. Between the North Shore and the BWCAW, you’ll find many off-the-beaten-path trails and waterfalls to explore.
Many waterfalls on Minnesota’s North Shore only require a short, pretty easy hike. However, you’ll have to endure a more strenuous hike or portage in the Boundary Waters to reach some of the falls.
The following MN waterfalls are relatively easy to access:
- Glen Avon Falls
- Kawishiwi Falls
- Caribou Falls Wayside
- Beaver River Falls
- Illgen Falls
- Gooseberry Falls
- Split Rock River Falls
- Cascade Falls and Two Step Falls- Tettegouche
These next waterfalls will require a longer or more difficult hike:
- George Crosby Manitou State Park
- High Falls in Tettegouche
The Newton, Pipestone, Wheelbarrow, Basswood & Lower Basswood Falls in the BWCA are only accessible by portage.
WHAT TYPES OF MN WATERFALLS ARE on the north shore?
You’ll find a variety of Minnesota waterfall types in Lake County, MN:
- Punchbowl falls (Illgen, Split Rock)
- Plunge falls (High Falls, Gooseberry)
- Multi-step falls (Gooseberry, Kawishiwi (BWCA)
- Cascade Falls (Tettegouche, Glen Avon, Gooseberry)
- Fan waterfalls (Caribou Falls)
WHEN’S THE BEST TIME TO VIEW MINNESOTA WATERFALLS?
In early April, the spring melt gives way to raging waterfalls that start to erase the last remnants of winter. Although several outdoor activities halt in early spring, exploring Lake County’s four state parks and their waterfalls can be a gratifying adventure full of breathtaking views. The North Shore also has fewer tourists in the spring, making it a great time to plan a waterfall tour along the North Shore.
North Shore Waterfalls Map
North Shore, MN waterfall locations
Beaver River Falls
The Beaver River Falls, Located in Beaver Bay, flow from the Beaver River. You can view the roadside waterfall as you drive over the Beaver …
Caribou Falls Wayside
Heading north on 61, just north of Little Marais, sits the Caribou Falls Wayside. Park at the rest area and take a half-mile hike along …
George Crosby Manitou State Park
George Crosby Manitou State Park in Finland is a favored place by locals for its rich wilderness and serene beauty. Hiking this rugged state park …
Glen Avon Falls
Although typically unknown to the casual North Shore traveler, Glen Avon Falls, a hidden North-Shore gem, is a popular destination for anglers. Visitors can park …
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Gooseberry Falls State Park earns its popularity for its spectacular waterfalls, river gorge, and Lake Superior shoreline. Additionally, it features Civilian Conservation Corps log, stone …
Illgen Falls (Tettegouche)
To see Illgen Falls, designated as part of Tettegouche, you can take a short drive up HWY 1 to find the scenic falls that flow …
Kawishiwi Falls
The Kawishiwi Falls (pronounced Ka-WISH-i-wee) flow from the dammed Garden Lake into Fall Lake and are located in the Superior National Forest near Ely, Minnesota, …
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
Gaze upon miles of North Shore coastline at the daring height of 130 feet off the Split Rock Lighthouse cliffside. Take in the charming architectural …
Tettegouche State Park
At Tettegouche State Park, you’ll discover the spectacular overlooks at Shovel Point, featuring rocky cliffs and inland bluffs; the plunging 60-foot High Falls of the …
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