Minnesota may be known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, but the North Star State is also home to several stunning waferfalls that are roaring right now.
And what better way to celebrate a hot summer than in the cooling mists of rushing fresh water?
We’ve chosen five destinations geared toward a variety of outdoor activity levels, including waterfalls that come into view after just a short stroll as well as vistas that emerge after a mile or two of hiking.
Some are near the Twin Cities, and some are far. But we think all of these picturesque places are worth a trip.
Minneopa Falls
Where: Minneopa State Park, 6 miles west of Mankato
Why: Minneopa translates roughly from the Dakota language to mean “water falling twice,” a nod to Minneopa Creek’s double waterfalls outside Mankato, about 90 miles from the Twin Cities. You can walk along the creek to the gorge at the bottom of the second waterfall, or view the action from a bridge between the first and second drops.
This park is broken into two parts: Waterfalls cascade in the southern portion of the park near a parking lot, picnic areas and the park’s office, where GPS units, birding and fishing supplies, sports equipment and activity kits for kids are available for rent. In the northern section of the park, which can be reached by a quick drive, you’ll find campgrounds, bison viewing, hiking trails and the historic Seppman Mill, a German-style stone windmill dating back to the 1860s.
Learn more: dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks or 507-389-5464
Gooseberry Falls
Where: Gooseberry Falls State Park, Two Harbors, 40 miles northeast of Duluth.
Why: This beloved state park on the shores of Lake Superior contains four separate waferfalls – Upper, Middle and Lower Gooseberry falls, all located near the park’s visitor center on Highway 61, plus a more secluded Fifth Falls about a mile up the river.
You can wade through the falls in warmer months, or view the falls from above on a catwalk bridge. This state park also offers self-guided nature walks, hiking and biking trails, campsites and historic structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Be sure to pack a lunch and visit the park’s ancient lava flow, aptly name Picnic Flow, where you can explore the rock formations and enjoy stunning views of Lake Superior while you eat.
Learn more: dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks
The High Falls of the Baptism River
Where: Tettegouche State Park, Silver Bay, 55 miles northeast of Duluth
Why: Tettegouche State Park is home to three waterfalls, including High Falls, the tallest waferfall entirely within Minnesota’s state lines, falling more than 60 feet. (It’s second only to the 120-foot High Falls of the Pigeon River at the Ontario boarder in Grand Portage State Park).
The Tettegouche High Falls can be reached by either a 1-mile or 3-mile roundtrip hike from the park’s visitor center, the longer of which winds past the smaller Two Step Falls.
For more ambitious hikers, the park offers more than 20 miles of hiking trails with views of lakes, scenic overlooks and the shores of Lake Superior, along with mountain bike and ATV trails. The park also offers opportunities for fishing, bird watching and rock climbing, plus campsites and cabins.
Learn more: dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks or 218-353-8800
Devil’s Kettle Falls
Where: Judge C.R. Magney State Park, 20 miles from Grand Marais
Why: Something strange is happening in this far-flung state park. Minnesota’s Brule River splits dramatically into two waterfalls – one plunges 50 feet into a pool below and continues downstream, while the other shoots into a large pothole that has stumped geologists for decades: Where does the water go once it disappears into the “Devil’s Kettle?”
Some believe the water empties into Lake Superior via an underground river. Others aren’t so sure. Dyes, logs, ping-pong balls and other objects thrown into the kettle have disappeared, never to be seen again, according to legend. Come up with your own theory, and awe at this natural wonder, by visiting the falls for yourself.
Hike about a mile – a strenuous one with 200 stairs added to assist you – to view Devil’s Kettle Falls as well as the park’s Upper Falls. The park is home to campgrounds, picnic areas, a self-guided nature walk and nine miles of challenging hiking trails along the Brule.
Learn more: dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks or 218-387-6300
Minnehaha Falls
Where: Minnehaha Park, 15 minutes south of downtown Minneapolis
Why: Enjoy a sweet slice of nature without ever having to leave the city. This impressive 53-foot waferfall is easily accessible by a short, paved walk from the parking lot at Minnehaha Park.
Observe the falls from one of the many viewing areas. Then follow Minnehaha Creek less than a half a mile through the park to see where it meets up with the Mississippi River. Minnehaha Park is also home to the seafood cafe Sea Salt Eatery, plus a snack bar, wading pool and dog park. You’ll also find seasonal bike rentals and concerts in the city park bandstand.
Learn more: minneapolisparks.org or 612-230-6400
By Emily Mongan. This article first appeared in the July 2014 issue of Minnesota Good Age and has been updated with current information.