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    Cascade River State Park

    4.7 (20 reviews)

    Cascade River State Park Photos

    Cascade River State Park - Hiking Near Me - Lutsen, Minnesota
    Cascade River State Park - Hiking Near Me - Lutsen, Minnesota
    Cascade River State Park - Hiking Near Me - Lutsen, Minnesota
    Cascade River State Park - Hiking Near Me - Lutsen, Minnesota
    Cascade River State Park - Hiking Near Me - Lutsen, Minnesota
    Cascade River State Park - Hiking Near Me - Lutsen, Minnesota
    Cascade River State Park - Hiking Near Me - Lutsen, Minnesota
    Cascade River State Park - Hiking Near Me - Lutsen, Minnesota
    Cascade River State Park - Hiking Near Me - Lutsen, Minnesota
    Cascade River State Park - Hiking Near Me - Lutsen, Minnesota
    Cascade River State Park - Hiking Near Me - Lutsen, Minnesota

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    Cascade River State Park - Hiking Near Me - Lutsen, Minnesota

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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

    Black Beach - Views

    Black Beach

    4.8(22 reviews)
    44.9 mi

    This is such a fun beach and about an hour-ish north from Duluth!…read more There is a small parking lot(free) and if you get lucky, you may be able to park there! Otherwise there is street parking and overflow!(both free) There is a golf cart that takes people back and forth from overflow to the beach for free! He does work off of tips, so be sure to throw some money his way! He is super nice, places music and has a cool bubble machine! You will walk down a short path and then... BEACH TIME!!! The beach has some areas with coarse rocks and then fine black sand! The beach is kept pretty clean and there are garbage cans as you are coming onto the beach and leaving. There are fire pits and picnic tables on a first come first serve basis. There are rocks for kids to climb on and stay entertained! The water is always cold, but on those hot days, it feels so good!!! It is a smaller beach and is gorgeous. We like to stop at the Rustic Inn, grabs some slices of pie, and eat the on the beach! Respects the area and make sure you leave with your trash! Together we can keep this beach as outstanding as it already is! **I dropped a star because there is no toilet, only a Biffy)

    We didn't get to spend as much time here as we'd have liked to, as we were traveling with the…read moreparents & they prefer "from the car" experiences. We will be making a return trip for a more in-depth venture. The "black sand" is more like ground rock - don't expect a powder feel. Still, it's rather cool & a great place to stop, especially off-season!

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    Black Beach
    Black Beach
    Black Beach

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    Devil’s Kettle Falls - Lots of these guys around - even more mosquitoes

    Devil’s Kettle Falls

    5.0(4 reviews)
    22.9 mi

    Beautiful place…read more Tough hike, lots of stairs. But a beautiful hike. The trail was in great shape. Spring must be a raging river.

    This moderate hike 2mi RT out and back trail is well maintained and HEAVILY TRAFFICKED. I call it…read moremoderate as there are 176 stairs down heading to the falls & up on return, plus the uncounted step ups along the path. The trail itself is rather easy. Allow 1-1.5hrs for this section. The overlooks are small platforms & hikers politely wait their turn. If you are going to take a lot of pictures, it's courteous to step aside & let others go, then hop back up... as most people only spend a minute or 2 gazing and take a few quick selfies or snapshots. Prior to arrival at the main attraction, there is a staircase to the left that takes you to the lower falls view, with water access. A great place to relax, feel the mist and take some photos. This portion of the trail is dog friendly. If you have a fear of dogs, I would not recommend this section. All dogs were well behaved but many were off-leash, which could be a problem. As 2 miles is fairly short, we continued down the Superior trail, beyond the falls, along the water. It was far less populated, (aside from the mosquito armies once the trail curved away from the water), crossing paths with only 1 other hiker on the way. This area is not mainly at the same level & ramps up in difficulty/overgrowth in some areas.

    Photos
    Devil’s Kettle Falls
    Devil’s Kettle Falls - Stairs 2 (176 this style down on arrival, up on return)

    Stairs 2 (176 this style down on arrival, up on return)

    Devil’s Kettle Falls - Devil's Kettle sign on the trail - it was well marked

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    Devil's Kettle sign on the trail - it was well marked

    Solbakken on Superior - The Jonas House features this grand fireplace!

    Solbakken on Superior

    3.5(11 reviews)
    6.7 mi

    Stayed here on Sunday (got the last room available) to get rested up for skiing at Lutsen the next…read moreday (what a disappointment Lutsen Ski was) and it is such a cozy place, both inside the reception area, and in the motel room. The wind was blowing outside heavily (up to 40 mph winds I believe) and it made for a great experience, as you could hear the waves (which were just 100 feet away down the hill) and howling winds, but it was contrasted perfectly with the warm hotel room. Perfect sleeping weather as the combo created a God like white noise. Comfortable beds, clean, comfortable sheets and linens, even a refrigerator and two burner stove, all for about $120, not to mention the best part (the above descrbed ambiance)..a really fair deal! Front desk folks were really nice too. In the future, whenever I go to Lutsen, I'll definitely be staying at Solbakken.

    When reviewing a hotel, for me, the main question is always: Would you stay there again? And the…read moreanswer is yes, in a heartbeat! My 3 priorities were all there: price, convenience, and cleanliness. The pros: ~The price: My group got a package through the lutsen website. The price for 2 nights of lodging and 2 days of lift tickets was ridiculously cheap. This is the main reason I liked this place so much. ~The location: We went to ski, and it was extremely convenient to Lutsen ski area. It was also right on Lake Superior so were able to get some very beautiful scenic shots by the lake. ~It was clean. ~Easy check in and out....Minimal interaction....I barely saw the people who run the place. But I prefer it like that. Cons: ~Walls in the motel were pretty thin. So if you're looking for some privacy, try one of cabins (and they're closer to the lake) ~Water pressure was a little low. It was only really low in one of our rooms so I think that's fixable.

    Photos
    Solbakken on Superior - Fresh fallen snow on the lodge deck!!

    Fresh fallen snow on the lodge deck!!

    Solbakken on Superior - The lodge fireplace.

    The lodge fireplace.

    Solbakken on Superior

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    Cascade River State Park - hiking - Updated June 2026

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