Hiking in Tettegouche State Park

High Falls 2007

The Minnesota State Parks along the North Shore of Lake Superior have miles of excellent hiking trails. One of the more dramatic hikes we enjoy is to the High Falls and Two Step Falls of the Baptism River in Tettegouche State Park. If you are staying at the park, you can start your hike from the campground, otherwise you can drive up to the nearby trail center and start your hike from there.

Baptism River 2005

We usually take the bridge across the river, but this year the water was low, and we were able to walk across by stepping from rock to rock. We were also able to stand at the edge of the High Falls. The last time we did this hike, the boys had to stand further away because of higher water levels.

High Falls 2005

From the top of the High Falls, you can hike down to the base of the falls, continue down to Two Step Falls, and then cross the river again to return to the trail center. The loop around the falls is about 2 miles, but it can be strenuous.

Base of High Falls 2007

There are a total of 23 miles of hiking trails, including 12 miles of the Superior Hiking Trail, inside the park. Another trail head is located off Lax Lake Road (402). From there, you can hike around several inland lakes. You can also park down by the visitor center off Highway 61 and walk to the beach at Lake Superior or enjoy the hike out to Shovel Point, which includes several scenic overlooks.

Beach at Tettegouche State Park 2005
Shovel Point in the background

Related posts:
More State Parks on the North Shore of Lake Superior
Camping at Temperance State Park