This year spring seems slow to find her way back to us. The snow has continued into March, covering what little grass had begun to show after warmer days. The upside to a snowy winter is that the waterfalls will be raging this spring, and one of the best places, in my humble opinion, to chase waterfalls in Minnesota’s Northshore. Sometimes, though, we don’t want to put in hours, miles, and steep incline-induced sweat to reach a beautiful destination. Or maybe these more treacherous trails aren’t at your hiking level or physical abilities. Lucky for us, the North Shore of Minnesota offers multiple waterfalls accessible for most skill and physical abilities, or for those that want the most with the least effort.

Starting at Jay Cooke State Park, located approximately 10 miles south of Duluth, take a stroll across the Swinging-bridge as the Saint Louis River rushes beneath. There are plenty of trails at this park offering different perspective of the multiple falls throughout this park, however it’s relatively easy to access the prime viewing points without taxing effort. If you’d prefer to opt for a longer stretch of the legs, the hiking club trail in this park is a little over 3 ½ miles long and gives opportunities to see the forest full of aspen and birch a well as beautiful view of the rapids and falls. Early mornings may greet you with an beautiful fog that creates a vibe entirely of its own.

Lester Park, isn’t a state park, and is free to access. Here there are rapids, and it appeared to be a fishing spot for some. The beautiful stone bridge provides a perfect backdrop for photography and the trails are well maintained. Moments were reminiscent of a fairytale and it was more peaceful than some of the higher trafficked parts.  

Located 40 miles north of Duluth, Gooseberry Falls State Park, is easily the most visited state park in the state of Minnesota. One of the nice things about this park is it offers waterfall views that are accessible to many with paved paths and ramps in place. Here you’ll find multiple waterfalls and rapids and can even walk on the bridge giving panoramic views. During the spring the flow of the rivers can be dangerous, so swimming isn’t recommended. Arrive early to avoid crowds, as this park does fill up quick. Visiting during the week and checking out the Gooseberry Falls State Park | Minnesota DNRwebsite to pre-plan your activities with alternates is a good idea to get the most out of your visit.

Cascading falls bring the water from Beaver River into the bay that empties into Lake Superior, eventually dropping over 300’ over a series of falls. Due to all of the sediment, the water at this time of year takes on an all-most mud-like color. This wayside rest, off of Highway 61, allows you to park your car and take the sidewalk for a quick journey to the bridge overlooking the falls below. This is another option that doesn’t require a pass and is free of charge. 

Grand Portage State Park is home to another iconic waterfall in Minnesota: High Falls, which drops 120 feet. Sitting at the US/Canada border, this is the Northern-most waterfall in the state. The walk to the falls is relatively easy, but can be icy at the beginning of spring when temperatures have thawed out the remanent of winter. Multiple platforms offer multiple views and angles of Pigeon River, Canada, and the iconic falls.

The outdoors are for everyone, and Minnesota has done a great job making waterfalls accessible for everyone. Which waterfalls do you plan on chasing this season?