Best Minnesota waterfalls
Minnesota Waterfalls on the North Shore
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.
How many MN waterfalls on the North Shore are in Lake County?
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.
How to get to North Shore Waterfalls
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 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 waterfalls on Minnesota’s North Shore:
- 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 Minnesota state parks and waterfalls can be a gratifying adventure full of breathtaking views. Additionally, the North Shore has fewer tourists in the spring, making it a great time to plan a waterfall tour along Lake Superior.
North Shore Waterfalls Map
MN NOrth Shore Waterfall locations
Beaver River Falls
Caribou Falls Wayside
George Crosby Manitou State Park
Glen Avon Falls
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Illgen Falls (Tettegouche)
Kawishiwi Falls
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
Tettegouche State Park
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