9 Best Things to Do in Tettegouche State Park on the North Shore, MN
The North Shore is known for having easy access to 8 of Minnesota’s best state parks, and one in particular really stands out – Tettegouche State Park.
Being home to the state’s tallest waterfall, incredible views of Lake Superior, and endless miles of hiking trails, Tettegouche is seriously a must visit.
This has long been my favorite park in the state and I visit it multiple times per year. I’ve hiked to High Falls at least 15 times and have showed my friends the views at Shovel Point more times than I can count.
In this post, I’ll share some of the best things to do in Tettegouche State Park to help you plan your trip to this amazing destination.
Things to Do in Tettegouche State Park
1. Hike to Minnesota’s Tallest Waterfall
If you’re a waterfall lover like myself, then your first stop in this state park might be at High Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in Minnesota.
It drops about 60 feet over a tall, rocky cliff and into a pretty large pool that sits at the base.
The hike is only about 2 miles and it’s fairly easy. I’ve hiked here with several friends that aren’t hikers, and they’ve all said that it was easy and worth the hike! My dog, Bella, has even visited High Falls with me.
My favorite part about High Falls is how fast it’s usually flowing. Water comes dumping over the cliffs, especially during spring and early summer. And in the winter, you can either go cross country skiing or snowshoeing to see the frozen falls!
With so many different waterfalls on the North Shore to choose from, it can be tricky to know what’s worth it. But if you can only choose one, let it be High Falls!
2. See the Viewpoint from Shovel Point
I say the same thing about Shovel Point as I did about High Falls. If you can only pick one North Shore hike, please let it be Shovel Point!
This viewpoint is found right along Lake Superior and the trailhead leaves from behind the Tettegouche Visitor Center.
Once you’ve made it to the top of the 1.2 mile roundtrip trail, you’ll have the best views over Lake Superior and the shoreline.
We recommend checking out this view and then going a bit further to see the cove that houses a pool of bright teal water. It’s not much further down the trail, just keeping going until you find the end of the trail that begins to turn into a loop. It’s there!
Shovel Point is even phenomenal in the winter months when the trees are capped with snow. You might need microspikes for the hike, but the views are amazing!
3. Take the Stairs to Two Step Falls
If you’re already on the trail to High Falls, then you may as well also stop at Two Step Falls. It’s not easy to get to, as you’ll have to hike down (and then back up) 200 stairs.
But since most people actually skip this viewpoint, you’re pretty darn likely to have it to yourself.
Tyler and I like to head to High Falls and then hit Two Step Falls on our way back, where we’ll typically eat lunch.
Two Step Falls is quite a bit smaller than other waterfalls in the area, but it’s worth the stop if you have the time!
4. Drive Up to Palisade Head
Palisade Head could definitely be considered the best viewpoint in all of Tettegouche State Park, although it isn’t always easy to get to.
And that’s not because of a crazy hike or anything – it’s just that the parking lot is really small and it’s a popular spot to stop. We’ve had to circle the lot before just to find a spot.
My best tip is to book a nearby cabin or hotel to get there early in the morning!
But once you’re able to snag a spot, you can head right out your car and be met with incredible views overlooking Lake Superior.
People go rock climbing here, and others (like myself) just like to wander around and look out into the lake for miles and miles. If you’re visiting during the fall, that’s even better because the trees make for some amazing color.
5. Visit the Hidden Illgen Falls
One of the best hidden gems in the area is Illgen Falls, which is another waterfall that’s actually just a short distance upstream from High Falls.
But because the trail doesn’t connect, you have to drive there, and because of that, many people skip out on it.
The trailhead for Illgen Falls is just a short drive up Highway 1, off of Highway 61. And then the trail from there is only a mile long.
The main view of the falls is from above, and it’s a really unique one, since most waterfalls are viewed from below.
6. Wander Through the Tettegouche Visitor Center
While most visitor centers can be pretty boring, the Tettegouche Visitor Center is actually pretty interesting!
There are a bunch of different exhibits and things to see in the visitor center that will give you more information on the park.
Aside from that, the nature store has all sorts of clothing stickers, and more to take home from your visit.
Not to mention that quite a few of the trails stem out from the visitor center parking lot, so since you’ll be parking there anyways, this is a good spot to use the bathroom, grab a snack, and hit the trail!
7. Go Camping on Lake Superior
If you’re looking to go camping on the North Shore, Tettegouche has one of the most unique spots to do it.
The Lake Superior Cart-In Campground is so unique, and actually allows you to set up camp right on the shores of Lake Superior.
Now, this campsite isn’t suitable for RVs, campers, or even vehicles. You’ll need to walk in and use the provided cart to carry your gear to your site. Although it’s only a 1/2 mile walk from the parking lot, so it’s totally doable.
So if you don’t mind staying in a primitive site, this is the perfect option since it gives you some pretty incredible views!
8. Go Kayaking to Visit Sea Caves
If you’re an experienced kayaker, then Tettegouche may be one of the best places for you to launch and explore some sea caves.
There are some pretty spectacular sea caves and arches along the shoreline of Lake Superior, and you can get up close and personal with them while kayaking.
A large arch is found near the shoreline of Shovel Point, and just below Palisade Head there are also some pretty great sea caves.
This is a really unique way to get some great views, but always use caution because Lake Superior is unpredictable and can change in an instant.
Note: Lake Superior requires sea kayaks and you should be proficient in sea kayaking, due to the waves and harsh nature of the lake. Either ensure that you are this or take a guide for your safety.
9. Have a Picnic on Black Beach
Just outside of Tettegouche State Park is the unique Black Beach, which is a great spot for a picnic lunch or dinner.
The beach is called Black Beach because of its black sand, which was created by mining operations along the North Shore.
Now it’s a really fun spot to sit back and relax, wade in the water, or use the picnic tables to eat a meal while enjoying the outdoors.
In the past, Tyler and I have eaten lunch while out hiking, and then picked up dinner at our favorite nearby restaurant (Northwoods) and then eaten it at Black Beach. It’s the perfect way to end the day!
FAQs
Where Can I See the Best View in Tettegouche State Park?
There are many great views in Tettegouche State Park, but one of the best is at Shovel Point, which is found from a 1.2 mile hike leaving from the visitor center. It leads to views over Lake Superior and the shoreline.
What is Tettegouche State Park Known For?
Tettegouche is mostly known for being home to the state’s tallest waterfall and for having some of the best hiking along the North Shore.
Do You Have to Pay to Get Into Tettegouche State Park?
Yes, you need a Minnesota State Park pass to enter the park. You can either get a day pass ($7) or an annual pass ($35) which is good for all Minnesota State Parks. You can order these online, in the visitor center, or at the meters in the visitor center parking lot.
Conclusion: Tettegouche Things to Do
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Tettegouche State Park, there are so many options to choose from!
Tyler and I love hitting the hiking trails and then ending the day with some relaxing time near the beach. But no matter what you like to do, there’s something for you at this amazing state park!
