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    Cascade River State Park

    4.7 (20 reviews)

    Cascade River State Park Hiking Photos

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    David R.

    Beautiful and exciting hiking in a bite-sized package. This park has four trails, two of which total about one mile, the perfect size for our family with two small children. Learn a bit about the local flora and fauna and take in the eponymous cascades. Peaceful forest sections and dynamic, spectacular river segments abound. A group that we encountered had seen a bear a few minutes prior. Keep your eyes and ears open for the various wonders of nature. It's a great time value and easily accessible from 61. Totally worth the $7 daily parking pass (which is good in any Minnesota state park).

    Feeling lucky?
    Ron U.

    Beauty I in the eye of the beholder. What's more beautiful and rewarding than a hike in the woods. March up to the "mountain overlook", it's a bit challenging and uphill both ways (just kidding) but well worth the effort. You'll see the root beer waterfall, rare white pines, mushrooms of all sizes an colors and at the top of the path a breath taking view for miles. I'd take a walking stick if I were you because of all the roots, un even paths and slippery areas. it's a 10 for me.

    This is why it's called Cascade River--one after another after another.
    Kirk H.

    The cascades here are indeed amazing. One waterfall after another after another in a beautiful north country setting. The hike to Lookout Mountain is pretty strenuous, and to be honest, I'm not convinced the view is worth it. Don't get me wrong, you can see for miles, but I didn't find it breathtaking. So unless you just want the exercise (or the State Parks Hiking trail password), I'd skip the long trek up and get some great pictures down near the various falls.

    Sarah E.

    Gorgeous park with great hiking trails, although at the beginning of June, some were under construction and closed. I love waterfalls and the one in Cascade River did not disappoint. It was rainy and cold, and there was one spot that still had snow, but most of the trail was easily accessible even in these conditions. Stayed at nearby Cascade Lodge and we were able to walk from there right into the park.

    Dawn G.

    Another gorgeous state park on the beautiful North Shore. Undeniably amazing views. Of all of the state parks I've visited along Highway 61, CRSP is my favorite. There is something so mesmerizing about those falls that you can easily find yourself staring for an hour. Just look at all of the photos posted on Yelp and you'll see why it's so popular. When you are finally able to peel your eyes from the rushing river, check out the various hiking trails. You can take a short walk to view the river from different vantage points or take a longer hike and immerse yourself in the woods. This is one of those peaceful parks where you could easily lose yourself in a book for hours while listening to the cascading water. If you're fortunate enough to find yourself with some free time during the middle of the week, that's the best time to visit to avoid larger crowds. But honestly, even with people coming and going, the river drowns out the voices and provides a sense of serenity. This is a must-visit park if you're in the Lutsen area.

    My guy at cascade falls park
    Kim C.

    One of my all time favorite parks! I had an amazing weekend hiking with my guy on the north shore. I had just joined the park passport club and was on a mission to visit and hike as many parks as i could. I saw the pictures he had taken there earliee in the year and couldn't wait to see for myself. This park can be summed up with one word. ENCHANTING. We were there in august after heavy rains so the river and cascade falls were flowing nicely. The dense lush trees were so green and pretty, I felt like i was in a fairy forest. We wound our way along the river, across a bridge and to the edges of the cliffs. The series of falls filled me with wonder. I kept snapping pic after pic. The park was busy but not TOO busy. Plenty of parking and easy to access the trail. This is a small park but I could have spent hours there. I can't wait to return in the spring!

    Dee T.

    Fabulous, fabulous park between Lutsen and Grand Marais for day hikes within the park or to go through on the SHT on your way up to the top of the world. Park for free on the side of Hwy 61 at the mouth of the Cascade River. You can access the trails that flank both sides of the river, with tons and tons of root-beer-colored falls. There are several hikes of various lengths and difficulties; the sedentary took a few steps around the mouth of the river and then went looking for french fries, while the hikers and Europeans actually chose to break a sweat. We (poseur-hikers) selected the popular Lookout Mountain loop that took us up to about 1100 feet and had wonderful views of the Sawtooth Mountains and Lake Superior. Then I, with my razor-sharp orienteering skills, managed to get us onto the spur of the SHT leading back toward Lutsen, rather than actually completing the loop. So silly really since the park has maps of their trails posted allll over the blessed area, but it made for an enjoyable but grueling extension to our hike. Great scenery all around! Pack some bug spray. Thankfully, we visited on an absolutely gorgeous day with a nice breeze that kept the ticks off. I am phobic about ticks, and Lyme disease, hell erlichiosis too but now I'm just sounding crazy...

    Jason W.

    This review is more for the Cascade River Falls than the entire state park. While traveling the North Shore make a stop here if you want to take in some great views and you are feeling like doing some hiking. Like Dee mentioned you can park right off of 61 for free, so there is no reason not to stop the car and at least take a look. At first the trails cris cross the river a few times giving visitors a view of the falls, but they then start to lead away from the river. Being one who doesn't like being told what I can and cannot do, I decided to leave the trail and just follow the river. We got amazing photos of the falls from up close and were actually able to sit on a rock ledge in the middle of the river right before a series of falls. I plan on coming back here the next chance I get. I want to spend an entire day just hiking the river and trying to find places that most people do not get to see.

    Cascade Falls
    Bridget W.

    Lovely hike in the winter time. Would definitely recommend ice trekkers and hiking pole though as it was quite icy/slippery. I imagine in the summer/fall the hike can go pretty quickly. We opted for the short 0.5 mile Cascade River Lower Loop. Our climb was a little slow due to the ice, but still very much enjoyed chasing out those frozen waterfalls!

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    Ask the Community - Cascade River State Park

    Review Highlights - Cascade River State Park

    Cascade is a gem of a state park on the North Shore that truly has something for everyone.

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    Tettegouche State Park

    Tettegouche State Park

    4.9(34 reviews)
    41.0 mi

    Cart-in campsites are normally great and well taken care of, especially campsite H…read more We scooped up a campsite(H) and reserved it early on. We get to the site after pushing a full cart(with a messed up wheel) to find a dozen fallen trees that haven't been clean up, and a bunch of dry old rotting brush on the site, and the fire pit is needing to be cleaned out(its full) Site needs maintenance, bad, was really looking forward to our stay, and now just kinda disappointed.

    Tettegouche State Park yes what a worthwhile place to come for a visit! Tettegouche is located…read morealong North Shore Scenic Drive running up and down the Minnesota coast. For me...the star attraction is the hike to HIGH FALLS!!! You can never have enough waterfalls and these High Falls were fantastic! I highly recommend everyone make the trek to High Falls and take some time to appreciate the beautiful backdrop. First off, Tettegouche SP is sort of a hidden little park. When I arrived here, the parking lot was small and it appeared that I fortunately got the last available spot. I visited back in June around 9am and the park and trailhead had filled up. I read at the entrance sign that the trail to High Falls was 1.5 miles each way taking roughly 2 hours. I was able to arrive at High Falls in a little over 1 hour each way with a quick pace. I found the hike to be relatively difficult especially starting out and towards the end. Leaving the trailhead I did have to climb up and over some rocks and cliff areas that I wasn't expecting to be so rugged. I'd say the elevation along the way was pretty elevated at times. When you do arrive near High Falls, there's a sign that states you have to step down 83 stairs to the base. But not to fret...it's all worth it. Upon making it to High Falls, I found the setting to be spectacular! It was a sunny, brisk and pleasant morning for the start of summer. Also, there was zero wind. I was able to climb on the rocks for some great looking photos of this 63 foot tall waterfall along the banks of the Baptism River. High Falls splashed down the cliffside and is sort of divided, making the appearance you're gazing out upon two unique looking waterfalls. Really, in total, it was a beautiful scene. If you don't mind taking your shoes off you can certainly step onto the waters for closer views up to High Falls. You can cross the river for different perspectives. I was really impressed with the surroundings at High Falls. There wasn't a cloud in the sky and as I always point out...I got fortunate with the sun being at my back and allowing for picturesque photo opportunities. On the side next to the trail you can climb safely up to the falls. For me, I was content getting a panoramic view from the riverside area. I simply took a seat on the rocks and had High Falls in plain clear sight for one grand magical moment. I hung out for 45 minutes. Eventually it filled up with hikers. For the time I was there though, I was appreciative for looking at such a pretty waterfall. Also at these High Falls, there was a sign for the Two Step Falls Access. I tried to decipher where this access lead towards but unfortunately I never discovered anything worthwhile. For those wanting more out of their time here you can connect to the Superior Hiking Trail. There were signs for it. Another worthwhile spot was Shovel Point. According to the entrance sign, if you follow the cliff line trail to Shovel Point, you're afforded views of the world's largest freshwater lake. Finally, you can also hike to Tettegouche Camp where you can reserve a cabin in advance and stay overnight in nature. Or it's mentioned that you can simply picnic in the lodge or canoe Mic Mac Lake. My experience here at Tettegouche State Park was fulfilling. Getting the chance to hike to High Falls for fantastic photo chances was memorable. I left feeling satisfied and grateful for taking a few hours out of my summer morning to visit. I highly recommend stopping here during your travels along North Shore Scenic Drive. I've become a waterfall enthusiast and believe if you make the 1.5 mile trek each way, you will not be disappointed with the sights and surroundings of this 5 star attraction.

    Photos
    Tettegouche State Park
    Tettegouche State Park
    Tettegouche State Park - North shore 2019

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    North shore 2019

    Apostle Islands National Lakeshore - Sand Island - North Beach

    Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

    4.5(35 reviews)
    54.3 mi

    Visit for the Sea Caves! We spent 4 days in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore - 3 days of…read morecamping on Sand Island and a full day touring the surrounding area. Skip Madeline Island if your schedule is tight. Highlights: Sea Caves - my favorites were the northeastern edge of Sand Island (next to Justice Bay). They are so breathtakingly beautiful, especially in sunrise or sunset lighting. Since we took our boat, we were able to get up close to see all the spectacular details. If you don't have a boat, rent kayaks and a tour guide to get up close views. Grand Tour - we drove to Bayfield to ride a large catamaran boat for a 3 hour tour of the Apostle Islands. Visitor Centers - they were full of interesting info and has some fun merch for souvenirs. Many people rave about their experience visiting Madeline Island (the largest island) which isn't actually a part of the National Lakeshore, but we found it rather outdated and boring and left on the very next ferry.

    Great area with some beautiful scenery. We stopped at 2 mainland visitor centers for about 30…read moreminutes each and learned a bit about the islands. The Little Sand Lake visitor center we could have actually spent more time if we'd had the luxury but we had an appointment to keep. I could see spending about an hour there. I recommend visiting both centers and taking a ferry/tour of the islands. If you want to do it all give yourself 3+ days. Otherwise you could probably hit the highlights in 1.5 days.

    Photos
    Apostle Islands National Lakeshore - Sand Caves

    Sand Caves

    Apostle Islands National Lakeshore - Sand Island - North Beach

    Sand Island - North Beach

    Apostle Islands National Lakeshore - Bayfield Marina

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    Bayfield Marina

    Ninemile Lake Campground - Campsite #8 was very nice

    Ninemile Lake Campground

    4.0(2 reviews)
    27.8 mi

    Get there early to secure a spot or wait until about after lunch time. This is usually when campers…read moreare heading out for the day/leaving from their stay! Super easy to set up, however to get spots along the lake, you need a reservation scheduled at least 1 week in advance. 2-3 vault toilets for both male and female and no shower. They have a fire pit and most have picnic tables at each spot. Definitely recommend bringing your own wood, toilet paper, wipes, and hand sanitizer in case the site manager isn't around.

    This was the one-time when it paid-off not to plan ahead. It was a rare July weekend when my…read morepartner & I both didn't have plans so we decided to go "up north" camping. In MN, reservable campingsites fill up fast, sometimes a year in advance so when we looked, everything was booked. Luckily, there are many campgrounds in the state that are walk-in or first-come-first-serve only. We chanced it and drove up north 4 hrs from the Twin Cities on a late Friday morning. When we arrived, all the lake-view campsites were taken but there were plenty of other drive-up sites available. We picked campsite #8 since it was one of the more spacious ones. It also felt far enough away from others and was a decent ways from the toilets (which I learned the hard way you shouldn't be too close to). The toilets are just like an outhouse but they were clean and included TP & hand sanitizer which was nice. The campgrounds have a boat access area to the lake with a dock that made for a good star-gazing spot. We walked over here at about 11pm and saw a brilliant night sky with layers of stars and the Milky Way was visible. I'm just sorry that I can't share any photos of the night sky to prove it. Believe me, I tried but my iPhone looks like I took a picture of a black rectangle -__- OVERALL TIPS: - This campground is located in Superior National Forest and has a small hiking trail near the campsites to check out. It's ok, but I recommend spending most of your time exploring the nearby George H Crosby Manitou State Park for more exciting and varied hiking paths. - Bring cash & small bills! You'll need the cash to pay for your campsite using small envelopes available when you enter. There's no onsite staff & unless you're ok writing down your credit card info or paying over the amount, bring plenty of $5 dollar bills and $1s. You'll want cash for the state park fees as well. - Get here as early as you can to get the best campsites. Look at all the empty ones before settling. I wanted to jump on the first open one I saw, and when I kept looking, they got better and better. There were still open sites at 11pm on the weekend after Fourth of July so shouldn't be too hard to find one. - Don't count on wood to be available. They were all our of wood bundles to purchase on-site. We had to drive back in town a ways to purchase wood for $7 at a gas station. - Drive a car you don't mind getting dirty. There are only dirt roads near here. It kicks up a lot of dust & makes for one bumpy ride. - Try to time your visit when there isn't a moon & you'll be able to see amazing layers of stars. - Remember to be a good camper & leave the campsite as-good if not better than you found it! Each campsite has a picnic table & firepit. We lucked out with the previous folks leaving a bunch of kindling for us & the firepit was nice and clean with no garbage in it like I've seen at other campgrounds. I was pleasantly surprised by Ninemile Lake campgrounds! It made me a believer in the goodness of impromptu trips. Overall, I loved the huge pine trees, how quiet & dark it got at night, & folks were pretty friendly. We were the only POC campers though. I'd definitely recommend staying here, as long as you're ok not having showers and flush-toilets. It's pretty rustic but doesn't "roughing it" make it more exciting?! -Says the person with a queen-size air mattress in her tent, wuhaha :)

    Photos
    Ninemile Lake Campground
    Ninemile Lake Campground - This is how I eat when camping ;) Brought Trung Nam's French bread buns from the cities & made eggs & bacon over the campfire

    This is how I eat when camping ;) Brought Trung Nam's French bread buns from the cities & made eggs & bacon over the campfire

    Ninemile Lake Campground - I love wild flowers

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    I love wild flowers

    Cascade River State Park - hiking - Updated May 2026

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