Explorer’s Guide to Waterfalls in Lake County, Minnesota

All photos courtesy of Lovin Lake County

In the wild, rugged north of Lake County, winter typically lingers into early April, which means snowy outdoor recreation continues for much of the month of March. This year, it’s predicted that March temperatures will vary, and toward the end of the month, a blizzard could dump some significant inches along the North Shore. 

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 state parks can be a satisfying adventure.

The Waterfalls

Did you know that there are more waterfalls in Lake County than any other county in Minnesota? Twelve to be exact. Between the North Shore and the BWCA you’ll find off-the-beaten-path trails and falls to explore. Check out the guide below and add these falls to your waterfall-viewing bucket list:

Gooseberry Falls

All photos courtesy of Lovin Lake County

As the gateway to the North Shore, Gooseberry Falls earns its popularity for its spectacular waterfalls, river gorge, Lake Superior shoreline, Civilian Conservation Corps log and stone structures, and north woods wildlife. Listen to the thunderous roar of the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls of the Gooseberry River as it rages through a rocky gorge. 

Hike or ski to see the Fifth Falls through a forest of evergreens, aspen, and birch. 

Split Rock Lighthouse

Although known as one of the most photographed lighthouses in the U.S, many may not be aware of the waterfalls that run through the Split Rock River. If you seek a unique and beautiful waterfall, but don’t want all of the foot traffic that is found near many popular North Shore waterfalls, explore the Split Rock River Falls. Located along a section of the Superior Hiking Trail, Split Rock Falls offers a beautiful 20-foot waterfall. 

We recommend hiking boots to access the cascades on the Split Rock River. At the state park, take the Split Rock River Loop Trail, one of our favorite North Shore day hikes, to get a close-up view of the river gorge and waterfalls.

Tettegouche

Discover the spectacular overlooks at Shovel Point; rocky, steep cliffs and inland bluffs; the cascading 60-foot High Falls of the Baptism River; and the historic Tettegouche Camp where visitors can stay the night. Tettegouch ranks as a hiker’s paradise with miles of trails that overlook the Sawtooth Mountains and wind down to walk-in-only inland lakes.

Kiwishiwi Falls 

Within the Superior National Forest near Ely Minnesota in Fall Lake Township, the Kiwishiwi Falls flow from the dammed Garden Lake into Fall Lake. Parking for this waterfall is located six miles east of Ely on the north side of Fernberg Road. 

The Kiwishiwi River is also a popular river to kayak and hike along the Kwiwishi Trail.

There’s more! Discover all the waterfalls in Lake County!

Spring Lodging Specials

Look for great lodging deals in the spring along the shore and inland. Often, there are valuable discounts before the summer season begins. Many lodging establishments offer lake-view rooms and cabins where visitors can watch roaring Lake Superior waves, especially with early spring Nor’easter winds. 

Spring makes an excellent time to head north; tourists will enjoy less traffic and crowds before the summer rush. Additionally, the scenic views while winter transitions to spring can be breathtaking. 

For more information, visit LovinLakeCounty.com.