21 Best Hikes on the North Shore, MN From a Minnesota Local

If you’re looking for some of the best hikes on the North Shore in Minnesota where you can find waterfalls, incredible overlooks, and more, then you’re in for a treat.

I grew up just 1 hour from the North Shore and have spent hundreds of days exploring the area. It’s my favorite part of the state, and I have done all of the hikes on this list!

Here you’ll find all of the best trails to hike for your trip, so you too can enjoy the magical views that the North Shore has to offer.

Best Hikes on Minnesota’s North Shore

1. Shovel Point

Shovel Point is one of my personal favorite hikes on the North Shore. It’s short, pretty easy, and has incredible views of Lake Superior.

The trail is only about 1.5 miles roundtrip, and the best view is at the very end when you loop the corner and see a cove that’s filled with bright, turquoise water.

The other view looks out to the shoreline, which is lined with pine trees. You can even spot Palisade Head from the top, which I love looking out for. I’ve tried to spot Black Beach, but I don’t think I can see that far!

It was one of the first hikes that I ever did when I started hiking, and is what got me into it! Since then, I’ve probably done it 15 times!

2. Pincushion Mountain

The Pincushion Mountain overlook gives you some really great views of the North Shore’s forests. It’s especially magical in the fall when the leaves change.

You can either take the actual Pincushion Mountain trail or take the Superior Hiking Trail. They both start at the same trailhead, but I’d recommend the SHT because it’s more scenic.

Plus there are fewer people on the SHT, and it helped me to enjoy a bit more solitude during my last visit. It’s a bit rockier, but it’s totally doable with sturdy shoes.

This trail has also become one of the best places for cross country skiing, so be sure to check that out during winter!

Pincushion Mountain is just under 4 miles long and is found just outside of Grand Marais, near all of the best restaurants and other activities.

3. Bean & Bear Lakes

The Bean and Bear Lake hike is probably one of the most popular hiking trails on the North Shore, and that’s for good reason.

It’s a long 7 mile trail that is covered in rocks and has quite a bit of elevation gain, but hoenstly it’s all worth it if you’re able to visit!

The main viewpoint looks out over Bean and Bear Lakes, which come together like an hourglass. Personally, I would choose to visit in fall, since that’s when the leaves turn beautiful shades of red and orange.

During my first visit here, I ended up having to park on the street because the parking lot is pretty small and it gets busy. So I recommend getting there early in the day!

Local’s Tip: When I first hiked Bean and Bear Lakes, I got lost on a spur trail! Use a GPS app like AllTrails to make sure you stay on the main route.

4. Caribou Falls

I just recently discovered Caribou Falls, and man do I wish that I had found it sooner! It’s such a hidden gem and I honestly hope that it stays that way.

Caribou Falls is found just off of Highway 61 and is a short, easy hike to the falls. It’s so much less crowded than other falls which is why I love it so much.

The falls roll down a rock cliffside for about 35 feet, into a beautiful natural pool that some people even swim in during the summer months.

The only tricky part of the trail is the stairs that you’ll need to take to get down to the base of the falls. But they’re really well-kept, so it’s not too hard. Just be sure you’re prepared for them!

Local’s Tip: Many people swim in the water at Caribou Falls, so pack a swimsuit and jump in! But please use caution as the rushing water can be dangerous.

5. High Falls of The Pigeon River

Another of my absolute favorites is High Falls of the Pigeon River, which is technically the highest waterfall in Minnesota. It’s located up in Grand Portage, halfway in Canada.

It’s a really short and easy paved trail that makes it accessible for most people, which is one of the main reasons that I love it so much.

High Falls was one of the first waterfalls I visited in Minnesota, so it holds a special place in my heart.

I would recommend going in the spring months because that’s when the water is flowing at it’s strongest. That means the waterfall is its most powerful.

But also this waterfall makes for one of the best things to do in winter on the North Shore, because when it’s frozen, it is one of the most unique sights to see.

6. Carlton Peak

If you want a hiking trail with really expansive views, then Carlton Peak is a great choice because it has a lot fewer people than other hikes.

There are two ways to reach Carlton Peak, with one being around 7 miles roundtrip and the other being about 3.4 miles roundtrip. Take a guess which one I prefer… 😉

If you take the Superior Hiking Trail, beginning in Temperance River State Park, the hike will come to about 7 miles roundtrip, whereas if you start near Britton Peak, it’s about 3.4 miles.

From Temperance River, you’ll get to walk past the waterfalls that are in the park. And from Britton Peak, you’ll have the option to quickly go to Britton Peak too.

Either is great, and I’ve done both. I think that I prefer from Britton Peak better just because it’s shorter, but if you like longer hikes, check out either one.

7. High Falls of The Baptism River

I know that we already talked about High Falls, but there are actually two of them in Minnesota. This one is actually the tallest in the state, because it’s entirely in Minnesota!

This waterfall is located in Tettegouche State Park near the campground, and is honestly one of the busiest hikes that I’ve seen in Minnesota.

It’s a really easy trail that leads you through the forest until you hear the roar of the water.

I brought my dog, Bella, with me on this hike this past spring and she loved it! She’s older, and it was still the perfect hike for her.

The main viewpoint is at the bottom of the stairs, but you can also go up the stairs to see the falls from above.

Local’s Tip: Don’t forget about the view from the top of the falls. Usually I prefer views at the bottom, but this one is amazing from both angles! But remember that the suspension bridge is still damaged from floods a few years back, so you won’t be able to cross it.

8. Mount Josephine

Mount Josephine is an awesome hike where you’re able to see Canada from the top, as well as Isle Royale National Park. It lies 1,300 feet above sea level, so you can see for miles and miles.

My favorite part is looking out at the islands that are sitting in Lake Superior. There aren’t a lot of islands off of the coast, so it’s fun to see!

The climb to the summit of Mount Josephine is not an easy one. The first mile is relatively flat, but within the last mile, you’ll climb about 600 feet in just over 1/2 mile.

I also would recommend using AllTrails to find the trail and follow it because I had a lot of trouble finding the trailhead and ended up taking some wrong spur trails. Learn from my mistakes!

9. Oberg Mountain

Oberg Mountain has been coined the best hike on the North Shore to view Minnesota’s beautiful fall foliage. I didn’t believe it until I visit this past fall.

I was seriously left breathless when I saw the view over Oberg Lake with the fall foliage surrounding it. It’s really something you can’t believe until you see it!

And that view isn’t the only great one, because as you keep making your way around the loop, there are several other viewpoints that in my opinion, are even better.

I’d actually recommend setting aside quite a bit of time for this hike because I could spend hours up here just staring at the view.

And while it is best during the fall months, it’s still spectacular the rest of the year when the trees are green or covered in snow.

Local’s Tip: Start in the clockwise direction for this trail to tackle uphills on the way out and have more downhills on your way back to the trailhead.

10. Temperance River Falls Loop

The Temperance River Falls Loop is unique spot that has a ton of waterfalls to check in just one short loop.

The trail will lead you along a gorge that the river runs through. You’ll be able to take in the views of the waterfalls and cuts that the water has made into the rock.

One of my favorite parts about Temperance River State Park is that it’s much less visited than some of the others on the shore like Gooseberry Falls and Tettegouche. So you don’t have to worry as much about crowds, which is amazing.

11. Fifth Falls

It’s no secret that Gooseberry Falls is the most popular place to see waterfalls on the North Shore, but what I’m recommending isn’t actually the main falls.

When you arrive at Gooseberry Falls, you’ll be met with Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls within a short distance of the parking lot. This is great, but it is BUSY.

I’d recommend moving on and heading to Fifth Falls, which is a smaller waterfall that’s found on a short and easy hike. The best part is that it isn’t crowded. It’s one of the most underrated waterfalls on the North Shore!

I’ve never seen Gooseberry Falls without tons of people, and I just prefer a little more peace. So if you’re like me, take my advice and head to Fifth Falls!

Local’s Tip: Be sure to also hit the observation deck on this loop to look out over Gooseberry Falls from above! You can see it from the main falls, but not many people head up there. It’s found on the Fifth Falls Trail.

12. White Sky Rock

White Sky Rock is one of my most recently discovered amazing hikes. It’s such a bang for your buck type of trail and I can’t believe I just found it recently.

This trail is short and steep. I went in flip flops my first time and was not prepared, so do better than me.

The viewpoint overlooks Caribou Lake and during the fall months, it will seriously leave you in awe. Tyler and I sat for an hour at the top just gazing out at the colors.

Local’s Tip: When we visited, the main viewpoint was really busy. So we found a small rock off to the side and enjoyed the view from there. Most people see the view and leave, but if you like to stay a bit longer, do what we did to avoid the crowds!

13. Eagle Mountain

Minnesota doesn’t really have mountains, but this is the tallest point in the state, at 2,301 feet above sea level!

You can reach it via the Eagle Mountain Trail, which is pretty easy, but it’s also pretty long.

If you want to actually get to the tallest point, follow a trail map, since the first overlook isn’t actually the peak. It’s just a false summit. The real peak is slightly further.

The views from the top are really pretty, looking out over the forest. But I will say that it’s not the prettiest on the North Shore. So just because it’s the tallest, doesn’t make it the best!

14. Day Hill Loop

As one of the most iconic locations on the North Shore, seeing Split Rock Lighthouse during your visit is a must!

On the Day Hill Loop, you can enjoy views of the popular lighthouse, as well as views over Lake Superior.

If you’re looking for a trail that’s great for families, this is one I really recommend! It’s easy and has amazing views. Plus the rocks are a nice place for kids to search around and find treasures like seaglass.

Most people who visit the park just go down to the lake or tour the lighthouse, so there haven’t ever been too many people on this trail when I’ve done it.

It is really pretty though, plus it’s easy and leads you past all of the best viewpoints and spots around Two Harbors.

Local’s Tip: There are quite a few spurs on this trail, and I would recommend checking them out! There were a few that led us to really beautiful viewpoints we weren’t expecting.

15. Leveaux Mountain

If you’re looking for a North Shore trail that’s similar to Oberg Mountain but less crowded, then this is the one for you.

The trailhead is actually found in the same parking lot as Oberg, but you’ll head to the west, instead of the east. Basically, just look for the trail opposite of where everyone else is going.

The trail leads you through the forest and dumps you out at a lookout over the Superior National Forest. You’ll still get those same views of the trees, and they will be turning bright colors during the fall!

I personally love Oberg Mountain, but this one is so similar and just sees such fewer crowds, so it’s totally worth checking out during your visit if you have time.

I actually would recommend pairing them together if you have the time and energy, since they’re both fairly short and start in the same place.

16. Lookout Mountain Loop

If you’re looking for a trail that combines a mixture of everything, then Lookout Mountain is for you. It’s got waterfalls, forests, and lookouts!

I really love Lookout Mountain because it’s visited less often than others on the North Shore but still has a lot to offer. Plus, it’s relatively short.

Start on the Superior Hiking Trail in the main parking for Cascade River State Park. This loops around, so you can go either direction, but I’d recommend sticking to the left.

The trail passes over the Cascade River, other streams, and waterfalls, leads you to Lookout Mountain to enjoy the view, and then loops back!

17. Magnetic Rock

The hike to Magnetic Rock is found up the Gunflint Trail out of Grand Marais. It’s a really unique trail and I actually have yet to visit it!

It leads you to a giant rock in the forest that is somehow magnetic. I’d recommend bringing your own magnet to try it out for yourself!

I’ve heard a lot of great things about it and some have mentioned that there are often magnets left behind so you don’t have to bring your own.

18. Honeymoon Bluff

Honeymoon Bluff is another trail on the Gunflint Trail that gets you away from some of the crowds.

It’s really short but is fairly steep, so be prepared for that. The trail leads you to an absolutely incredible lookout over Hungryjack Lake, which is one of my favorite spots on the Gunflint Trail.

We watched the sunset here during a recent visit to Grand Marais, and watching the sun sink down below the lake is just incredible. I highly recommend it!

19. Artists’ Point

I know that some people might not really consider this a ‘hike,’ but it’s great for people who want to see Lake Superior up close.

Artist Point is right in Grand Marais along the shoreline. There’s a small peinsula that leads you to the Grand Marais Lighthouse and to a group of trees where you can escape the crowds.

Tyler and I visit Artists Point everytime we come here, and after visiting, we always walk over to either Sydney’s Frozen Custard or Superior Creamery for ice cream.

I also usually recommend staying in Grand Marais during your visit because there are so many great places, and there are a few cute cabins nearby too!

20. Centennial Hiking Trail

Another of the best Gunflint Trail hikes is the Centennial Hiking Trail. This is a big loop through a wooded area of the Superior National Forest.

If you love escaping the crowds and getting into nature, this is for you. That’s why it’s one of my favorite North Shore hikes.

I love getting to immerse myself in the forest and wander past the many ponds and overlooks that this trail brings. It’s just so peaceful!

I will say that this one is quite a ways up the Gunflint Trail, so it’s best saved for a longer trip to the shore. But it’s well worth the trip if you have the time!

21. Moose Mountain

If you’ve ever seen those iconic views of the sea of red trees on the North Shore during fall, Moose Mountain is where you can see those views!

I’d recommend taking the Lutsen Gondola to the top and hiking around thes spur trails like the Moose Loop Trail, but you can also hike to the top if you’d like (it’s just longer!).

Even just the main spot at the top of the gondola is amazing, and is one of my favorite viewpoints on the North Shore! Plus the hikes up here are pretty easy, so it’s a win-win!

Wrap-Up: Hiking Trails on the North Shore of Minnesota

I absolutley love hiking in Minnesota, and the North Shore truly is the best spot. So if you’re looking for great trails for your visit, these are the spots that I personally love and recommend!