Waterfalls in Duluth MN, Minnesota Duluth is a city that’s full of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is also home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Minnesota. While there are many waterfalls in Duluth, here are some of our favorites.
Duluth is located at the northern end of Lake Superior in northeast Minnesota and can be a very beautiful place to visit. The town sits at the meeting place of the St. Louis River and Lake Superior.
The topography of the area makes for a lot of dramatic waterfalls in Duluth, MN, some of which are quite popular for beauty and recreation.
Discover several of these places by looking at this article that outlines some of the most popular waterfalls to visit in Duluth, Minnesota.
The city of Duluth is a popular destination for outdoors lovers. This is because, year round, it offers scenic trails, beautiful natural scenery, and a variety of fun waterfalls that are popular—not only with tourists but also with those who live in Duluth.
Waterfalls in Duluth MN
The city of Duluth is located at the tip of Lake Superior. It’s a beautiful city surrounded by waterfalls, mountains, forests, and wildlife. The city has over 10 miles of trails that wind through it.
along with many more miles of hiking trails in the surrounding area. Some of these trails lead to beautiful waterfalls that you can hike to right from town!
The waterfalls in Duluth, Minnesota, are a great place to go if you want to get out and enjoy nature.
There are many different types of waterfalls in Duluth, Minnesota, that have been created by Mother Nature over time. These beautiful waterfalls are part of what makes this area so unique and special.
The best way to view these amazing falls is by taking a boat ride on Lake Superior or by taking one of the many hiking trails located near them.
There are also other attractions nearby, such as Lutsen Ski Resort, Cascade River State Park, Gooseberry Falls State Park, Split Rock Lighthouse, and much more!
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Key takeaway points
- Amity Creek Falls
- Lester River Falls
- Chester Creek Falls
- Tischer Creek Falls
- Swinging Bridge Falls
- Gooseberry Falls
- Devil’s Kettle Falls
- Cascade Falls
- Hidden Falls
- High Falls on the Pigeon River
- Congdon Falls
- Big and Little Manitou Falls
- Orienta Falls
- Fifth Falls
- Amnicon Falls
1. Amity Creek Falls
Amity Creek Falls is a beautiful waterfall located near the city of Duluth in Minnesota. The falls are also known as the “Amity Creek Waterfall” or simply “Amity Creek Falls.”
The falls are located on Amity Creek, which is part of Amity Creek State Park. The park is open all year long, but you can find more information about visiting it at https://mndnr.gov/parks/state_parks/amity_creek/.
The falls are located at the end of a short trail that leads from the parking lot. The area is well marked, and it is easy to find your way.
You will see several signs along the trail with information about the park and its history. There are also many benches along the trail, so you can take breaks as needed.
Amity Creek Falls is a beautiful waterfall located near the city of Duluth in Minnesota. The falls are also known as the “Amity Creek Waterfall” or simply “Amity Creek Falls.”
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2. Lester River Falls
The second waterfall on this list, Lester River Falls, is located in the city of Duluth and is a 20-foot-high waterfall on the Lester River.
This waterfall is part of the larger Lester River Falls Park that also includes two other waterfalls (Lester Falls and Miners Castle).
The park has over 3 miles of walking trails that wind through scenic areas with views of Lake Superior and the Mississippi River. The park is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, but there are some rules that visitors should keep in mind:
- Dogs must be leashed at all times.
- Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
- Visitors may not swim or wade in any area adjacent to a designated swimming beach, except where permitted by posted signs.
Visitors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own water bottles to help reduce plastic waste. The Lester River Falls Park is located at 4500 West Skyline Parkway in Duluth, MN.
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3. Chester Creek Falls
Chester Creek Falls is a waterfall located in the city of Superior, Wisconsin. It is located within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and can be accessed by taking Trail 5 on the Minnesota side of the city.
The falls are roughly 20 feet high and 100 feet wide. They were created by a massive landslide that occurred some time after 9,400 BC from an ancient volcano called Mount Woolsack (later renamed Neva).
This massive landslide created Chester Creek Falls as we know them today. In fact, this event was so large that it caused this area to become submerged under water for many years until it reemerged 2,000 years later!
The falls were named after Chester Creek, which is a tributary of the North Fork of the Poplar River.
The creek begins at Lake Superior and flows through Minnesota and Wisconsin before joining with the North Fork of the Poplar River.
They are located in a popular tourist area that features many other waterfalls, including Falls Creek Falls and Rainbow Falls.
4. Tischer Creek Falls
Tischer Creek Falls is a 10-foot waterfall that flows over the edge of a cliff. Located on Tischer Creek, which is a tributary of the Temperance River, this waterfall is accessible by hiking or biking along Duluth’s North Shore Scenic Drive bike trail and then down some stairs.
Tischer Creek Falls is not accessible in the winter months due to flooding potential caused by ice jams in Tischer Creek.
This waterfall is a popular destination for hikers and mountain bikers who are looking for a quick stop on their way to other destinations.
The area around the falls is also very popular with bird watchers, as it’s located near the headwaters of Tischer Creek.
The waterfalls are located in a small gorge that is easily accessible by foot. The area around the falls is also very popular with bird watchers, as it’s located near the headwaters of Tischer Creek.
The falls are located in a small gorge that is easily accessible by foot. The area around the falls is also very popular with bird watchers, as it’s located near the headwaters of Tischer Creek.
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5. Swinging Bridge Falls
Swinging Bridge Falls is a 3-tiered waterfall in the city of Duluth, Minnesota. It is located on the Lester River, which is a tributary of the Saint Louis River. The falls are easily accessible from nearby parking lots and trails.
From these locations, you can see all three tiers: the upper falls (40 feet high), the middle falls (20 feet high), and the lower falls (15 feet high).
The waterfalls are most scenic during spring runoff, when they have more volume than usual due to rainfall upstream, but they’re also beautiful in other seasons as well.
The falls are named after a former railroad bridge that crossed over the river. The bridge was destroyed by a flood in 1892, but the name stuck.
The falls are located in a beautiful, natural setting. The area surrounding the falls is heavily forested and covered with wildflowers during springtime.
The falls are located in the city of Duluth, Minnesota. The Lester River is a tributary of the Saint Louis River, which flows through Lake Superior.
6. Gooseberry Falls
Gooseberry Falls is a beautiful waterfall in northeastern Minnesota. It is one of the most popular waterfalls to visit, as it has an easy trail and accessible views from multiple angles.
The best time to visit is during the summer months, when there are fewer crowds and you can enjoy swimming in Lake Superior (if you’re feeling brave).
If you want to stay for the weekend, the park also has camping facilities.
The park is open year-round, with the best time to visit being between May and October. The falls are located just off of Highway 61, so they’re very easy to access.
The falls are a series of cascades that drop into Lake Superior. There’s also a small cave behind the falls that you can explore. It really is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Minnesota!
The falls are very large and powerful, which is why they’re so popular. They’re also close to Duluth, making them an easy day trip from the city.
There are several different trails that lead to various vantage points of the falls.One of my favorite things about this waterfall is how easy it is for families with small children to visit.
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7. Devil’s Kettle Falls
How to get there: From the intersection of Highway 53 and Highway 61 in Duluth, head northeast on Highway 61 for about 6 miles. Turn right on Skyline Parkway (County Road 11).
At 4 miles on your right, you will see a sign for Tettegouche State Park; continue straight onto Skyline Parkway.
You will pass through the Tettegouche Campground entrance and follow the road around until you see Devil’s Kettle Falls’ parking lot on your left.
This is where the hiking trail begins.What to expect: This is a very short hike with only one destination—Devil’s Kettle Falls!
If you are looking for something more challenging or an extended hike, skip this one and go somewhere else in Tettegouche State Park, where there are many trails!
There is also an option for rock climbing at Devil’s Kettle Falls if that interests you! Just remember that if climbing isn’t legal at the time of your visit, then don’t do it without checking first.
Because penalties can be severe if park rangers catch you doing illegal activities like rock climbing while intoxicated (which unfortunately happens all the time).
Where should I park? There is plenty of parking available, so no worries here!
What should I pack? A daypack, a water bottle, sunscreen if you burn easily, and a camera! What else can I do at Tettegouche State Park? There are many things to do in this park.
If you have time, then definitely check out some of the other trails, like Falls Trail, which takes you to the top of Devil’s Kettle Falls, where there is an observation deck for viewing it from above.
If you want something that is easier or shorter, I recommend taking the Lakeshore Trail out to Lake Superior. I
It’s a beautiful trail with many different types of trees and plants along the way! You’ll definitely get some good views of Lake Superior if it’s a clear day.
8. Cascade Falls
The most popular waterfall on this list is easily Cascade Falls, which is located in the city of Duluth. You can find it right off of Highway 61, near downtown Duluth and Lake Superior.
Parking is available at a small lot across the street from the falls, where you’ll find a viewing platform that offers an excellent view.
From here, you can also look down into some of the more shallow pools in which visitors are known to swim during warmer months (in my experience, it has never been warm enough).
Cascade Falls itself is wide and powerful, dropping over 60 feet into a deep pool at its base.
The best time to see this waterfall is early summer or late fall when water levels are high; otherwise, seeing only a trickle of water coming over rocks isn’t very exciting!
The hike to see this waterfall is fairly short, but it’s steep and rocky. It will take you around 20 minutes to get up to the top of the falls, where you can see not only Cascade Falls but also Inspiration Point (which offers a view of downtown Duluth).
The best time to visit Cascade Falls is early summer or late fall when water levels are high; otherwise there isn’t much exciting about seeing only a trickle of water coming over rocks! The hike to see this waterfall is fairly short, but it’s steep and rocky.
It will take you around 20 minutes to get up to the top of the falls, where you can see not only Cascade Falls but also Inspiration Point (which offers a view of downtown Duluth).
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9. Hidden Falls
Hidden Falls is located in the Superior National Forest, just a short hike from the parking lot. It isn’t a huge waterfall by any means, but it makes for a beautiful sight. You can have a picnic there and spend some time alone or with your family or friends.
The falls are located behind a waterfall, so you may have to look carefully to see them. There is a small stream that runs through the area, and you can sit on some rocks and enjoy the sound of water falling around you.
There is also a small cave behind the waterfall that you can walk into if you are brave enough. You will be able to see some beautiful formations inside the cave.
The falls are located at the end of a short trail that is about a mile long. It is a fairly easy hike, and you should be able to complete it in about 30 minutes if you are walking at a normal pace.
There are some steep areas where you will have to climb over rocks or logs, but most people will find it easy enough.
The trailhead is located on the north side of SR-22, just south of the intersection with CR-10. You can park in the small lot there and begin your hike.
10. High Falls on the Pigeon River
High Falls on the Pigeon River, located in the Kettle River State Forest, is a waterfall that drops over 100 feet. The falls are hidden behind a dense mossy growth of trees and plants, making it difficult to see them.
However, there are several trails that lead to viewing platforms on top of the falls where you can get an unobstructed view.
There is also a picnic area near the parking lot if you would like to bring your own food and have lunch while you take in this beautiful sight.
The Pigeon River is a popular destination for canoeing and kayaking, so if you are looking for something different to do in North Carolina, this is the place. The river has several rapids that provide fun for all ages.
The Pigeon River Falls is a waterfall in North Carolina, located at the edge of the Kettle Mountains. It’s 100 feet tall and flows into a small pool below.
The hike to the falls is easy and only takes about 20 minutes. There are several trails leading to viewing platforms on top of the falls where you can get an unobstructed view.
There is also a picnic area near the parking lot if you would like to bring your own food and have lunch while you take in this beautiful sight.
The Pigeon River is a popular destination for canoeing and kayaking, so if you are looking for something different to do in North Carolina, this is the place. The river has several rapids that provide fun for all ages.
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11. Congdon Falls
Congdon Falls is a great place to visit in the late spring or early summer. You can get a better view of the falls by walking along the trail that leads you right up to them.
The trail itself is not wheelchair accessible, so if you have an elderly person or someone using crutches in your group, plan on driving closer to Congdon Falls and parking in one of the several free parking lots near it.
The trail itself is quite steep and slippery when it rains—take care when walking down!
Additionally, there are many obstacles along the way (tree branches, rocks) that could cause tripping or slipping if you are not paying attention while hiking.
There are also no signs marking where exactly you should go as you turn off from Highway 61 onto Highway 1; follow these instructions carefully so as not to miss this point:
Turn left onto Highway 61, heading north out of Duluth towards Two Harbors (about 8 miles).
Once on Highway 61, head north for about 5 miles until reaching “Highway 1,” which will be marked by a sign stating “Two Harbors” with an arrow pointing east (away from Duluth).
Turn left at this intersection onto Highway 1, traveling east towards Windigo State Park where Congdon Creek crosses under this road before running into Lake Superior just south of Beaver Bay Road (about 2 miles).
This area has ample parking spots available for those who wish to see Congdon Falls up close and personal!
After turning left onto Highway 1, drive for about another mile until reaching a stop sign. From here, you’ll turn right onto Beaver Bay Road, which will take you directly into the park (about 2 miles).
Once at the park entrance, turn right onto Highway 61, heading north out of Duluth towards Two Harbors (about 8 miles).
Once on Highway 61, head north for about 5 miles until reaching “Highway 1,” which will be marked by a sign stating “Two Harbors” with an arrow pointing east (away from Duluth).
Turn left at this intersection onto Highway 1, traveling east towards Windigo State Park where Congdon Creek crosses under this road before running into Lake Superior just south of Beaver Bay Road (about 2 miles).
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12. Big and Little Manitou Falls
The biggest waterfall in Duluth is the Big and Little Manitou Falls, which are located in the heart of the city. This waterfall is great for families because it can be viewed from a slightly elevated position along Highway 61, meaning that you don’t have to hike at all to see it!
If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, though, there’s also a short trail that leads directly to the bases of both waterfalls.
This trail was built as part of an effort by local artists and architects who wanted to make this area accessible while still preserving its natural beauty.
The trail is only about a mile long, but it’s well worth the walk. You’ll pass through lush forests and then emerge into a clearing where you can see both waterfalls up close.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of some local wildlife! The best time to visit this park is during the spring or summer when the weather is warm and sunny.
The best time to visit this park is during the spring or summer when the weather is warm and sunny.
If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, though, there’s also a short trail that leads directly to the bases of both waterfalls.
This trail was built as part of an effort by local artists and architects who wanted to make this area accessible while still preserving its natural beauty.
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13. Orienta Falls
Orienta Falls is a waterfall in Duluth, Minnesota, in the United States.The waterfall is on the North Shore, near the Superior Hiking Trail, and can be accessed by hiking trails. This waterfall is one of many found along the trail.
There are several ways to access Orienta Falls:
The easiest way to access Orienta Falls is by parking at the end of Gunflint Lake Road (CR-6) and hiking up through a small forest that leads directly to their base.
This path leads from where you park down to Lake Superior’s shoreline before veering left towards Orienta Creek as it descends into its basin below an old railroad bridge that spans across it with stairs leading up onto its right side.
A longer route takes you past this bridge but requires more effort due to the steep steps carved into the rock being used instead of stairs made out of concrete or wood beams like those used elsewhere along this trail section since they were built decades ago.
When logging operations were active nearby, they caused erosion damage so severe that re-building these sections would require extensive repairs costing hundreds of thousands of dollars each year.
“It’s only during peak seasons when tourists flock here during the summer months, so no one has taken on such a task yet, despite being proposed multiple times over the last decade.”
The trail leads you down towards Orienta Falls, and you can either take a right turn to get there or continue walking straight ahead along the path leading down past an old railroad bridge that spans across it with stairs leading up onto its right side.
This bridge was built decades ago when logging operations were active nearby, causing erosion damage so severe that re-building these sections would require extensive repairs costing hundreds of thousands of dollars each year.
Despite being proposed numerous times over the last decade, no one has taken on such a task, even during peak seasons when tourists flock here during the summer months.
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14. Fifth Falls
The waterfall is located at Wintergreen Gorge, which consists of a deep canyon that was carved by glaciers. The gorge is part of the Temperance River State Forest and lies within the boundaries of Lake Superior State Forest.
The falls are accessible via a short trail from County Road 3. A viewing platform has been built to allow visitors an unobstructed view into the canyon below.
The falls are about 80 feet high, with the water flowing down a narrow chute.
The falls are located on the Temperance River, which flows into Lake Superior. The river begins at the springs of Temperance River State Forest and is fed by a number of small creeks.
The river runs through a series of rapids and waterfalls before reaching the lake. The Temperance River is a popular spot for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
The river has many small waterfalls and rapids, but the best known is the 80-foot-high Temperance Falls, which drops into a deep gorge.
The falls are located on County Road 3 in Lake Superior State Forest. The Temperance River State Forest is a recreation destination for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders.
The forest includes several trails that lead to waterfalls or along the riverbank. Lake Superior State Forest is located on the eastern shore of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
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15. Amnicon Falls
Amnicon Falls is located on the north shore of Lake Superior, roughly a mile south of Amnicon Bay State Park. This waterfall is easy to get to, but it’s hidden away, so you won’t see too many people there.
There are picnic tables and grills nearby for those who want to spend some time relaxing; otherwise, it’s just you and nature as far as the eye can see!
You can find this waterfall by taking Highway 61 north from Duluth until you reach Highway 73, then heading east towards Grand Marais.
From there, take a left onto County Road 13 (also called Amnicon Falls Road) and follow that through town before turning right onto Forest Road 420 (marked “Cascade River Campground”).
After about 4 miles with some winding turns (including an S-curve), look for a small parking area on your right side with a sign proclaiming
“Amnicon Falls Trailhead”—park here if possible since it is small and fills up fast during peak tourism months (June–August).
From here, walk down into the forested area where there will be several signs directing hikers toward what they came here for: Amnicon Falls itself!
“It’s less than 1 mile roundtrip, but definitely worth it once at its destination point, where multiple tiers flow over various rock formations while cascading down into Lake Superior below them all around us.” The hike itself is a moderate one and should take about 45 minutes to complete.
There are plenty of places to stop along the way if you need a break or want to snap some photos of the beautiful scenery around you (including Lake Superior). Once at Amnicon Falls, you’ll be able to see why it’s such a popular spot for photographers.
Final thought
We hope that this list has been helpful to you in finding the perfect place for a scenic hike or just getting some exercise outdoors. Whatever your reason for visiting Duluth, MN, there are plenty of natural wonders to enjoy!
Duluth is a fantastic little city with plenty to offer in terms of theme parks, families, and outdoor activities.The trail and waterfalls are very easy to get to and fun to use, whether you are in shape or not.
From walking on the trails to climbing the falls, there is something for everyone here.
Whether it’s the beauty of the waterfalls or the fact that there are so many around Duluth, I believe most of what we feel can be summed up in one word: mystery.
To spend some time at a waterfall and let your mind wander is to experience something that very few people ever do. and it just might change you. So get out there and see for yourself—I don’t think you’ll regret it.
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